Location:

Granada, Nicaragua

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Academic Year, Fall Semester, MayMester Intersession, Rolling Starts, Spring Break, Spring Semester, Summer, Winter Semester, Year Round

Program Overview

Program Description:

Students and professionals in this field have an opportunity to work with local professionals at a small clinic in Granada. There are many people who need care, but there is a short supply of professionals in this field in Nicaragua. The center is also greatly interested in occupational therapy. In Nicaragua, occupational therapy is not fully recognized as a field of study or profession. Many medical personnel see the importance of occupational therapy and hope to have trained volunteers who can help with their patients and help instruct local therapists. Volunteers will assist staff at the clinic, as well as go medical visits to local schools and community centers.

Volunteers may work at a physical therapy clinic helping provide direct care to patients. The center works with people of all ages and who suffer from recent injuries or are born with disabilities. The physical therapy clinic also welcomes volunteers with knowledge of occupational therapy. Participants will work in the following areas. • Direct care to patients at the clinic • Help with physiotherapy sessions to children at a special education school • Help with physiotherapy sessions at local nursing homes • Discuss and share experience and knowledge with local doctors and staff and the Center for Physical Health • Research and develop a proposal for occupational therapy at the health center (only for those with an appropriate background in occupational therapy). This program is open to students on their last years or professionals of Physical Therapy. An Intermediate to advance level of Spanis is required.

Setting Description:

Granada, the oldest European city in the Americas, is a charming colonial city on the shore of Lake Nicaragua. The city is undergoing massive restoration and revitalization as the Nicaraguan economy expands and the tourist industry starts to take off. ELI works with community organizations in and around Granada to create volunteer and Spanish language immersion programs for travelers looking to dive beneath the surface and gain insight into the daily lives of Nicaraguans.

Cost:

Cost in US$ Cost varies depending on length of stay. Cost Includes Food Housing In-country staff support Registration fees Written materials pre-departure