The Role of Advocacy and Occupational Justice in Increasing the Accessibility of Parks for Parents with Disabilities

Author

Nathan Burke-Tan, San Jose State University

Publication Date

Fall 2025

Degree Type

Doctoral Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Graham Teaford

Second Advisor

Lea Le

Third Advisor

Courtney Boitano

Keywords

Advocacy, Accessibility barriers, Parks, Adults with disabilities, Family caregivers, Occupational justice

Abstract

The purpose of this doctoral capstone project was to address ongoing accessibility barriers experienced by adults with disabilities, particularly those in caregiving roles, in public parks and playgrounds in the greater San Diego region. Although many parks meet the minimum requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990), research shows that caregivers with disabilities continue to encounter obstacles that limit safe, meaningful participation in community spaces (Dalpra, 2022; Fernelius, 2017; Firkin et al., 2024; Movahed et al., 2023; Ogletree et al., 2020; Prellwitz & Skar, 2007). These persistent gaps indicate a need for stronger advocacy and clearer public awareness of real-world accessibility conditions. This project included assessing seven parks and playgrounds using the mPARCs tool, collaborating with mentors at Through the Looking Glass and the Adaptive Parenting Project, and creating educational materials that translate accessibility issues for a general audience. Key outcomes included two PSA style videos and Google Maps photo documentation, which has received more than fourteen thousand views and provides a sustainable resource for residents, service providers, and community planners. This project reinforces the role of occupational therapy in advocacy by illuminating common access barriers and promoting more inclusive park and playground design for adults with disabilities and their families.

Recommended Citation

Burke-Tan, Nathan, "The Role of Advocacy and Occupational Justice in Increasing the Accessibility of Parks for Parents with Disabilities" (2025). Doctoral Projects. 195.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.eabe-mrcx
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_doctoral/195