The Efficacy of Equine Assisted Occupational Therapy for Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) on Cognitive-emotional Aspects, Daily Function and Participation

Introduction: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, is currently one of the most common diagnoses given to children. ADHD is characterized by a developmental and chronic impairment, Executive Functions (EFs), cognitive-emotional and sensory-motor functions, as well as a wide variety of difficulties in daily tasks beyond the core symptoms. Literature review indicated that current intervention protocols include pharmacological treatment and address specific aspects such as behavioral or psychological, though scarce interventions address both. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility of conducting an Equine Assisted Occupational Therapy (EAOT) intervention for children with ADHD aiming to improve EFs, cognitive-emotional functions and participation. Method: A prospective cohort study with Interrupted Time-Series design will be conducted. Forty participants and their parents who were referred to EAOT will be recruited from the waiting list of Harey Yehuda stables. Assessments will take place at four time points. Time 1: baseline-when referred for EAOT. Time 2: pre-test, before first treatment session, end of 12 week waiting period. Time 3: post-test after 12 weeks of intervention and time 4: post intervention assessment, three months follow up. The intervention will be administered by a licensed EAOT, and assessments will be done by a blinded licensed occupational therapist (OT). Standardized assessment measures will be used to measure EFs, cognitive-emotional and sensory-motor aspects as well as participation at each time point.