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Articles 1 - 30 of 613
Full-Text Articles in Entire DC Network
Rethinking Existing Extension Programming: A Foundation For Healthy Aging?, Nicholas J. Spokely, Sloane A. Montgomery, Kelsey J. Weitzel, Kristin A. Miller, Marta Novaes Oliveira, Stephen D. Ball, Breanne S. Baker
Rethinking Existing Extension Programming: A Foundation For Healthy Aging?, Nicholas J. Spokely, Sloane A. Montgomery, Kelsey J. Weitzel, Kristin A. Miller, Marta Novaes Oliveira, Stephen D. Ball, Breanne S. Baker
Journal of Extension
Muscle declines are becoming more prevalent in younger adults, driving the need for accessible exercise programs. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy (SSSH) Extension program was developed for adults 60 years old or older, but for this study, we enrolled 135 participants aged less than 60 years old in rural and urban counties to assess if it could improve their muscle performance. We analyzed data with time and group comparisons using paired t-tests and 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVAs. Younger adults significantly improved muscle performance after SSSH, and the results were similar between rural and urban counties. This study …
Joy To The Rehabilitation World: A Call To Incorporate Enjoyment Into Clinical Practice, Cristina Colón-Semenza, Raymond Jones, Winston Kennedy
Joy To The Rehabilitation World: A Call To Incorporate Enjoyment Into Clinical Practice, Cristina Colón-Semenza, Raymond Jones, Winston Kennedy
Journal of Patient-Centered Research and Reviews
Although multiple academic disciplines recognize the motivational power of joy, rehabilitation professionals have, historically, underemphasized this construct in clinical practice. In addition, many clinicians report persistent challenges in motivating patients to adhere to prescribed exercise regimens. In response, there is growing advocacy for integrating affective-based interventions into practice. This overview aims to 1) raise awareness among rehabilitation professionals about the role of joy in physical rehabilitation, 2) illustrate how joy influences physical activity engagement and recovery outcomes, 3) outline evidence-based strategies for enhancing joy in clinical settings, and 4) introduce validated measures of joy suitable for use in practice. By …
Reimagining Clinical Education: Interprofessional Simulation And Clinical Skill Readiness In Nursing And Occupational Therapy Curricula, Gretchen Johnson, Linda Barnett, Lori Aaron-Brija, Emily Berkowitz
Reimagining Clinical Education: Interprofessional Simulation And Clinical Skill Readiness In Nursing And Occupational Therapy Curricula, Gretchen Johnson, Linda Barnett, Lori Aaron-Brija, Emily Berkowitz
Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice
Purpose: As the healthcare landscape evolves, education for health professionals must prepare future practitioners to meet emerging challenges and navigate diverse care settings. Integrating interprofessional education (IPE) opportunities within healthcare curricula supports the development of essential clinical skill competencies and collaboration across multiple disciplines. The Clinical Skill Readiness interprofessional model prepares students for successful clinical rotations by integrating assessment and skill development. Students develop vital interprofessional skills, with specific emphasis on communication, professionalism, and role clarity, all of which are essential for effective practice in a collaborative clinical setting. Methods: Nursing and occupational therapy students participated in timed treatment sessions …
Females With Urinary Incontinence Demonstrate Impaired Postural Stability, Jean L. Mccrory, Corrie Mancinelli, Kate Harrison, Samantha K. Rondini Monaco, Krystal L. Thomas
Females With Urinary Incontinence Demonstrate Impaired Postural Stability, Jean L. Mccrory, Corrie Mancinelli, Kate Harrison, Samantha K. Rondini Monaco, Krystal L. Thomas
Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice
Introduction: Females with urinary incontinence (UI) have an increased risk of falls. Few studies have quantified postural control, namely center of pressure (COP) movement and vertical ground reaction force in static and dynamic tasks, in females with UI. Purpose: The aim of our study was to examine static and perturbed postural stability in females with UI compared to unaffected females. Methods: The study design was a between-group comparison (UI vs control) on our static outcome variables of anteroposterior and mediolateral COP sway, COP displacement, average and instantaneous maximum COP velocity, and standard deviations of anteroposterior and mediolateral COP movement and …
Remote Assessment And Management Of Physical Function In Older Adults (Ramp): An International Expert Delphi Process, Jack Dalla Via, Hurst, Elsa Dent, Jackson J. Fyfe, Paul Jansons, Eleanor J. Hayes, Marc Sim, Mylene Aubertin-Leheudre, Alex Barreto De Lima, Lucimere Bohn, Sabine Britting, Fanny Buckinx, Gavin Connolly, Lora Giangregorio, Duarte Henriques-Neto, Jennifer R.A. Jones, Robert Kob, Suzanne N. Morin, Girish N, Lucas B.R. Orssatto, Maria Pearson, Daniel Pinto, Esmee M. Reijnierse, Catherine M. Said, Mohamed Salem, Gary Skinner
Remote Assessment And Management Of Physical Function In Older Adults (Ramp): An International Expert Delphi Process, Jack Dalla Via, Hurst, Elsa Dent, Jackson J. Fyfe, Paul Jansons, Eleanor J. Hayes, Marc Sim, Mylene Aubertin-Leheudre, Alex Barreto De Lima, Lucimere Bohn, Sabine Britting, Fanny Buckinx, Gavin Connolly, Lora Giangregorio, Duarte Henriques-Neto, Jennifer R.A. Jones, Robert Kob, Suzanne N. Morin, Girish N, Lucas B.R. Orssatto, Maria Pearson, Daniel Pinto, Esmee M. Reijnierse, Catherine M. Said, Mohamed Salem, Gary Skinner
Research outputs 2022 to 2026
Background: Remote methods may help older adults improve their physical function, but understanding the perspectives of experts who deliver this care is critical. This modified Delphi process aimed to develop expert consensus on effectiveness, feasibility and implementation of remote assessment and management of physical function in older adults. Methods: This online Delphi process included experts involved in supporting older adults to maintain or improve their health. The Round 1 survey presented 33 Delphi statements assessed using an 11-point Likert scale (0–10; ≥7 indicated agreement). Statements with strong (≥80 %), moderate (50–<80 %) and low (<50 %) agreement were accepted, revised, or rejected, respectively. Revised statements were presented in Round 2, and accepted statements were consolidated into key messages. Results: In total, 108 respondents (67 % female; mean [SD] age 41.4 [10.9] years) from 16 countries (five continents) completed Round 1. Fourteen statements were accepted (88–100 % agreement) and 10 were rejected (8–39 % agreement). The remaining nine statements (52–69 % agreement) were revised, and two new statements were developed for Round 2, which was completed by 89 (82 %) respondents. Five Round 2 statements were accepted (82–93 % agreement). Seven key messages were developed from 19 accepted statements, highlighting that remote care should be accessible to older adults with requisite capabilities, is feasible for older adults and health professionals with adequate support and training, and requires guidelines, policies, and further research to support wider adoption. Conclusions: The findings of this Delphi process can inform the implementation of remote care approaches for assessing and managing physical function in older adults.
The Impact Of Computer Training On Confidence And Occupational Participation In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Alicia Jones, Joseph A. Scazzero, Rosanne Dizazzo-Miller
The Impact Of Computer Training On Confidence And Occupational Participation In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Alicia Jones, Joseph A. Scazzero, Rosanne Dizazzo-Miller
The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy
Background: It is fundamental to understand why older adults choose and use technology to fully understand how to meet the needs of an aging population in a technologically advanced society. This research aimed to design and implement a holistic technology training program for older adults that explores using a laptop beyond basic internet use.
Method: A pre-post mixed-method survey study took place at a local senior center. A classroom-style program was designed to deliver information and instruction using a digital device. An 11-item survey on attitudes toward technology using a 7-point Likert scale with qualitative responses was used to collect …
The Content Validity Of The Functional Cognition Index In Instrumental Activities Of Daily Living (Fci-Iadl) As A Screening Tool For Mild Cognitive Impairment (Mci) In Older Adults In Singapore, Namrata P. Sadarangani, Phyllis Simon
The Content Validity Of The Functional Cognition Index In Instrumental Activities Of Daily Living (Fci-Iadl) As A Screening Tool For Mild Cognitive Impairment (Mci) In Older Adults In Singapore, Namrata P. Sadarangani, Phyllis Simon
The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy
Background: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a syndrome that is considered a transition phase between healthy cognitive aging and dementia. The person may have subjective memory complaints, substantiated by family or caregiver and/or impaired executive function, that lead to difficulties performing complex Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). Our objective was to develop a tool to assess functional cognition in IADLs as a screen for MCI in older adults.
Method: A Qualtrics survey questionnaire was rated by 15 content experts on the relevance of the 22 test item questions to the cognitive domains being measured using a 4-point …
Bridging Gaps In Spanish-Speaking Individuals In Rural Areas About Parkinson’S Disease, Fabiola Barajas Velasco
Bridging Gaps In Spanish-Speaking Individuals In Rural Areas About Parkinson’S Disease, Fabiola Barajas Velasco
Occupational Therapy Student Capstones
Provide education and bring awareness of Parkinson’s disease in rural areas through educational trainings and community outreach, specifically those close in contact with farmworkers or farmworkers themselves.
Kickin' It Old School: Connecting The Ages, Elyssia Lambert
Kickin' It Old School: Connecting The Ages, Elyssia Lambert
Occupational Therapy Student Capstones
Problem Statement
Lack of social participation is associated with negative impacts on QoL in individuals with dementia
Lack of awareness and knowledge of OT as a career option
Discordance Between Self-Report And Performance-Based Measures Among At-Risk Older Adults: A Secondary Data Analysis, Chiung-Ju Liu, Wen-Pin Chang, Inga Wang
Discordance Between Self-Report And Performance-Based Measures Among At-Risk Older Adults: A Secondary Data Analysis, Chiung-Ju Liu, Wen-Pin Chang, Inga Wang
Occupational Therapy Faculty Publications
Importance: Subtle, age-related declines in occupational performance among at-risk older adults may go undetected when assessed solely with self-report measures, potentially leading to missed intervention opportunities. Understanding discrepancies between self-reported and performance-based occupational performance outcomes can inform assessment selection and interpretation.
Objective: To examine the discrepancies between the two types of measure among community-dwelling older adults at risk for losing independence.
Design: Cross-sectional study using secondary data analysis.
Participants: Seventy-one community-dwelling older adults (M age = 74 yr, SD = 9) who showed muscle weakness and reported difficulty with activities of daily living.
Outcomes and measures: Canadian Occupational Performance Measure …
The Effect Of The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (Lsvt) Big Method Based On Occupation On Older Adult Functional Mobility Balance, Muhammad Luthfi, Kharisma Nur Idalasari
The Effect Of The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (Lsvt) Big Method Based On Occupation On Older Adult Functional Mobility Balance, Muhammad Luthfi, Kharisma Nur Idalasari
Jurnal Fisioterapi Terapan Indonesia
Balance impairment is one of the major problems commonly experienced by older adults as a result of degenerative processes, leading to an increased risk of falls. Falls may cause fear of recurrent falling, reduced physical activity, loss of physical capability, and may eventually result in disability and psychological consequences such as depression. Structured, occupation-based physical activity has been shown to provide various benefits for older adults, including improving physical function, slowing functional decline associated with degenerative processes, reducing fall risk, and enhancing postural control. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the occupation-based Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) BIG …
The Crossroads Between Osteosarcopenia And Intrinsic Capacity—A Narrative Review, Nailton J. Neto, Guy Hajj-Boutros, Wayne Lok Ok Choo, Miguel G. Borda, Konstantinos Prokopidis, Hassan Rammal, Daniel Rivas, Hussein Samhat, Ivan Baltasar-Fernandez, Mahdi Imani, Cristiano Dos Santos Gomes, Oscar Rosas Carrasco, Marc Sim, Julie A. Pasco, Julia Chabot, Ana M. Ayala-Copete, Francisco J. García-García, Claire Godard-Sebillotte, Raman Agnihotram, Lana J. Williams, Anna Andrianova, Robinson Ramirez-Vélez, Emma Connolly, Harmehr Sekhon, Hidenori Arai, Liang-Kung Chen, Andréa Faust, Howard Bergman, Alexandra Papaioannou, Pierrette Gaudreau, Tiago Alexandre, Leocadio Rodriguez-Mañas, Ricardo Oliveira Guerra, Gustavo Duque
The Crossroads Between Osteosarcopenia And Intrinsic Capacity—A Narrative Review, Nailton J. Neto, Guy Hajj-Boutros, Wayne Lok Ok Choo, Miguel G. Borda, Konstantinos Prokopidis, Hassan Rammal, Daniel Rivas, Hussein Samhat, Ivan Baltasar-Fernandez, Mahdi Imani, Cristiano Dos Santos Gomes, Oscar Rosas Carrasco, Marc Sim, Julie A. Pasco, Julia Chabot, Ana M. Ayala-Copete, Francisco J. García-García, Claire Godard-Sebillotte, Raman Agnihotram, Lana J. Williams, Anna Andrianova, Robinson Ramirez-Vélez, Emma Connolly, Harmehr Sekhon, Hidenori Arai, Liang-Kung Chen, Andréa Faust, Howard Bergman, Alexandra Papaioannou, Pierrette Gaudreau, Tiago Alexandre, Leocadio Rodriguez-Mañas, Ricardo Oliveira Guerra, Gustavo Duque
Research outputs 2022 to 2026
Intrinsic capacity (IC) is defined as the composite of physical and mental abilities an individual possesses, encompassing 5 domains: cognition, psychological health, sensory function, vitality, and locomotion. This construct is central to the World Health Organization’s framework for assessing functional ability in older adults. Growing evidence highlights the critical role of the musculoskeletal system in maintaining these domains, while conditions such as sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and their coexistence as osteosarcopenia (OS) are increasingly associated with IC decline. This narrative review compiles current evidence on the modulatory role of muscles and bones in IC and the impacts of sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and OS. …
Improving The Assessment And Treatment Of People With Low Back Pain, Kayla Krueger
Improving The Assessment And Treatment Of People With Low Back Pain, Kayla Krueger
WUSM Theses and Dissertations – All Programs
Low back pain (LBP) is a significant and continually growing public health problem. While some people recover from an initial episode, a proportion will develop chronic or recurrent LBP that limits their ability to perform daily functional activities. The variable and often function-limiting course of LBP underscores the clear need for improved methods of assessment and treatment. One way to improve the assessment and treatment of LBP is to develop a more comprehensive understanding of factors that contribute to LBP. In this dissertation, we investigated two categories of factors that may contribute to a person’s LBP: (1) spinal movement impairments …
Feasibility Of A Functional Reach Tool For Individuals With Lower Extremity Amputations, Neil Bongolan, Dustin Hoy, Ashlyn Strange
Feasibility Of A Functional Reach Tool For Individuals With Lower Extremity Amputations, Neil Bongolan, Dustin Hoy, Ashlyn Strange
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Purpose: Patients with lower extremity amputations are at increased risk of falls due to decreased balance ability between amputated and sound side. The purpose of this study was to examine the usefulness of a reaching tool for practitioners to assess balance in an inpatient rehab facility. It was anticipated that clinicians will find the reaching device useful when administering the Functional Reach Test (FRT) in a clinical setting, given the frequent use of these assessments and the device’s demonstrated reliability.
Participants: Physical Therapists and patients at an Inpatient Rehab Facility in Henderson, Nevada
Materials/Methods: A prototype reaching tool was provided …
Golden Steps: A Dance-Based Program To Improve Balance In Older Adults — A Feasibility And Acceptability Study, Ramyr Bognot, Sophia Botelho, Nolan Caberto, Lauren Valerio, Joshua Yu, Jason Zeidman
Golden Steps: A Dance-Based Program To Improve Balance In Older Adults — A Feasibility And Acceptability Study, Ramyr Bognot, Sophia Botelho, Nolan Caberto, Lauren Valerio, Joshua Yu, Jason Zeidman
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Background
Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults. Evidence-based programs such as Otago and Tai Ji Quan reduce fall risk, yet barriers to access and adherence remain. Dance-based interventions may offer a practical, enjoyable approach to engage older adults in balance training.
Purpose
This formative pilot study aimed to develop four dance routines grounded in evidence- based balance principles and evaluate their feasibility and acceptability among older adults, including factors influencing enjoyment and willingness to continue participation, to inform future clinical and community implementation.
Methods
Four routines (Polka, Country, Rockabilly, Salsa) were developed …
Beyond The First Bout: Adaptations To Repeated Injuries Across Physiological And Pathological Conditions, Cory W. Baumann, Christopher P. Ingalls, Kazunori Nosaka, Jarrod A. Call
Beyond The First Bout: Adaptations To Repeated Injuries Across Physiological And Pathological Conditions, Cory W. Baumann, Christopher P. Ingalls, Kazunori Nosaka, Jarrod A. Call
Research outputs 2022 to 2026
Skeletal muscle exhibits remarkable plasticity following injury, yet most research has focused on responses to a single bout of eccentric contractions. This review addresses adaptations to repeated eccentric contraction–induced injuries across physiological and pathological conditions, with emphasis on insights from preclinical rodent models. In healthy muscle, the repeated bout effect (RBE) reduces strength loss and accelerates recovery after subsequent bouts. However, these adaptations are highly condition dependent. Aging can attenuate the RBE, while dystrophic muscle remains vulnerable to repeated injury despite compensatory remodeling. Other factors, including but not limited to, chronic alcohol intake and malignant hyperthermia can influence these responses, …
Stronger Bodies, Sharper Minds: Promoting Wellness In Community-Dwelling Older Adults Through Exercise And Health Education, Michael Webb
Stronger Bodies, Sharper Minds: Promoting Wellness In Community-Dwelling Older Adults Through Exercise And Health Education, Michael Webb
Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium
Due to the increasing population of older adults, the need for health promotion and wellness-based interventions that support effective participation in their respective occupations is essential. Literature supports that engaging in physical activity, health education, and social participation are critical factors in increasing the quality and longevity of life among community-dwelling older adults. A doctoral capstone project was conducted at a community-based day program for low-income older adults to promote wellness, engagement, and continued participation in meaningful occupations.
The purpose of this project was to design and implement group sessions consisting of therapeutic exercise and health education to integrate education, …
The Relationship Between Burnout, Resilience, And Locus Of Control In Occupational Therapy, Tabitha Gibbs, Miguel Garcia, Karen Menard, William O'Bannon
The Relationship Between Burnout, Resilience, And Locus Of Control In Occupational Therapy, Tabitha Gibbs, Miguel Garcia, Karen Menard, William O'Bannon
The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy
Background: Burnout in occupational therapists is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished accomplishment.
Method: This non-experimental correlational study, guided by Rotter’s Locus of Control Theory and the attribution theory of motivation, analyzed the relationship between resilience, locus of control, and burnout among occupational therapists using the Brief Resilience Scale, the Internal-External Locus of Control Short Scale -4, and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory. The sample of 83 participants was obtained via questionnaires sent to a convenience sample of occupational therapists with at least 6 months of work experience in any practice setting.
Results: The results of this study …
Creation And Implementation Of Nature And Sensory Based Therapy Programming To Support The Health And Well-Being Of Catholic Dominican Sisters, Sydney Payne
Capstone Projects
As the older generation ages, diseases such as dementia can cause sensory processing systems to be less efficient. When they become less efficient, it can create confusion and undermine one’s sense of safety (Champagne, 2018 pg 29-30). Engaging in sensory experiences provides support for these deficits while fostering participation in everyday life activities (Champagne, 2018 pg 30). This capstone project included a sensory garden (nature-based therapy) and associated multi-sensory activities. This was done through creation of nature and sensory-based programming, implementation of this programming one-on-one with sisters, two group sensory, dementia-friendly activities, and formation of a sustainability binder. Occupational therapy …
Implementation Of A Cardio Drumming Program To Promote Health And Wellbeing In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Amanda Moyer
Implementation Of A Cardio Drumming Program To Promote Health And Wellbeing In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Amanda Moyer
Capstone Projects
This doctoral capstone experience focused on implementation of a cardio drumming program at the Ecumenical Senior Center (ESC), a day center for older adults, in Kalamazoo Michigan. Cardio drumming is a unique way of exercise that combines drumming to upbeat music with an exercise ball, laundry basket, and drumsticks. Cardio drumming is low impact and can be adapted to many different abilities. This form of exercise can be done in a seated or standing position. The program began once a week for 30 minutes but soon increased to two times a week for 35 minutes and lasted 9 weeks due …
Service Dogs As An Intervention To Improve Sleep: A Systematic Review, Yvonne Monti, Sara Kuiken, Anna Owens, Rachel Madden, Skyler Roote
Service Dogs As An Intervention To Improve Sleep: A Systematic Review, Yvonne Monti, Sara Kuiken, Anna Owens, Rachel Madden, Skyler Roote
People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice
Purpose: The use of service dogs as a holistic intervention has grown significantly in the past 10 years. Studies report positive impacts of service dogs on primary and secondary symptoms associated with various disabilities. Dysfunctional sleep is a common symptom among individuals receiving service dog assistance. This study investigates the efficacy of service dogs in improving co-occurring sleep dysfunction in handlers with various conditions.
Methods: A comprehensive search of Science Direct, ProQuest Psychology Journals, PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and 11 studies met inclusion criteria. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted by …
Using Diffusion Mri To Relate Hippocampal Subfield Microstructure To Delayed Verbal Memory In Cognitively Intact Individuals At Genetic Risk For Developing Alzheimer's Disease, Jennapher Lingo Vangilder, Andrew Hooyman, Sasha Hakhu, Kurt G. Schilling, Leland S. Hu, Yuxiang Zhou, Richard J. Caselli, Leslie C. Baxter, Scott C. Beeman
Using Diffusion Mri To Relate Hippocampal Subfield Microstructure To Delayed Verbal Memory In Cognitively Intact Individuals At Genetic Risk For Developing Alzheimer's Disease, Jennapher Lingo Vangilder, Andrew Hooyman, Sasha Hakhu, Kurt G. Schilling, Leland S. Hu, Yuxiang Zhou, Richard J. Caselli, Leslie C. Baxter, Scott C. Beeman
Physical Therapy Faculty Articles and Research
Intervention to delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an important treatment strategy but detecting at-risk individuals before significant disease progression remains challenging. This study evaluates the relationship between hippocampal microstructure and verbal cognition in cognitively intact older adults, focusing on the differences between APOΕ ε4 allele carriers and noncarriers. Participants (n = 41 noncarriers, 33 carriers) over 60 years old (mean ± SD: carriers 71 ± 6.6; noncarriers 71 ± 6.4 years) underwent diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) and volumetric assessments. We assessed hippocampal structure, including microstructure, using Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging (NODDI), diffusion tensor …
Simulated Hearing Loss In Healthy Young And Older Adults Results In Poor Reaction Time In Older Adults., Victoria Kowalewski, Nicoleta Bugnariu, Rita M. Patterson, Jessica Hartos
Simulated Hearing Loss In Healthy Young And Older Adults Results In Poor Reaction Time In Older Adults., Victoria Kowalewski, Nicoleta Bugnariu, Rita M. Patterson, Jessica Hartos
Pacific Journal of Health
Emerging evidence links hearing loss to increased fall risk in older adults, yet mechanisms remain unclear. This study examined the impact of simulated hearing loss on reactive balance control in healthy young and older adults. Participants performed dual-task scenario involving auditory sentence repetition and unexpected surface translations. Hearing loss was simulated using Adobe Audition, applying frequency-specific attenuation based on moderate sensorineural hearing loss levels from the literature.
Speech-in-noise performance significantly declined under simulated hearing loss for both age groups (p < .001), confirming effective simulation, but not significant differences were found between age groups. Maximum COP-COM displacement (the scalar distance between Center of Pressure and Center of Mass) increased with perturbation intensity (Level 1 vs. Level 2: p < .001), but no significant differences were found between hearing conditions or age groups (p > .05), suggesting compensatory step execution was preserved.
Reaction time analysis revealed a significant interaction between hearing condition and perturbation level …
Integration Of The Science Of Team Science (Scits) With Applied Healthcare Frameworks: Interprofessional Education Through A University-Based Head Injury Clinic, Part Ii: Mixed Methods, Emily Balog, Susan Paparella, Natalia Noce, Stephanie Hubbell, Kelly Pena
Integration Of The Science Of Team Science (Scits) With Applied Healthcare Frameworks: Interprofessional Education Through A University-Based Head Injury Clinic, Part Ii: Mixed Methods, Emily Balog, Susan Paparella, Natalia Noce, Stephanie Hubbell, Kelly Pena
Translational Science in Occupation
Introduction: Effective healthcare delivery requires clinicians to function within high-performing, collaborative teams. To support this, interprofessional education (IPE) must provide opportunities that move beyond siloed training. This paper details the clinical application of a team science-informed educational intervention designed to prepare students for interprofessional practice (IPP) through a university-based head injury head injury clinic. Methods: The research team conducted a mixed methods case study with a convergent design to evaluate student outcomes. Eighteen graduate students from occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology participated in a 10-week clinic. Faculty delivered training in IPEC competencies, TeamSTEPPS® tools, and clinical processes before …
Stroke Increases Motor Output Variability During Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contractions Of Knee Extensor Muscles In Adults, Zhilun Zhou, Stephanie Christine Wolfe, Brian Schmit, Matthew J. Durand, Sandra Hunter, Allison Hyngstrom
Stroke Increases Motor Output Variability During Maximal Voluntary Isometric Contractions Of Knee Extensor Muscles In Adults, Zhilun Zhou, Stephanie Christine Wolfe, Brian Schmit, Matthew J. Durand, Sandra Hunter, Allison Hyngstrom
Physical Therapy Faculty Research and Publications
Greater motor output variability (MOV, inconsistency and unsteadiness) during submaximal tasks post stroke is associated with poorer motor performance. However, little is known about MOV during maximal tasks and relationships with clinical measures of motor performance among stroke survivors. This study determined inconsistency (across discrete attempts) and unsteadiness (within a single attempt) during knee extension maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) in stroke survivors and neurotypical controls. Forty-three stroke survivors (28 female) and 31 age-matched neurotypical controls (15 female) performed a minimum of five knee extension MVICs with paretic and non-paretic legs (stroke) or dominant leg (controls). Inconsistency was calculated as …
Investigating The Efficacy Of An Online Multigenerational Awareness Course For Occupational Therapy Students – A Pilot Study, Susan Blair, Barbara M. Doucet, Jerilyn Callen, Kirsten Davin, Shelby Hutchinson
Investigating The Efficacy Of An Online Multigenerational Awareness Course For Occupational Therapy Students – A Pilot Study, Susan Blair, Barbara M. Doucet, Jerilyn Callen, Kirsten Davin, Shelby Hutchinson
The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy
In today’s multigenerational society, particularly in health care settings, thriving can be challenging because of generational differences. Occupational therapy educational programs (OTEPs) prepare students for work environments where three to four different generations may be present. This study examines the effectiveness of an online multigenerational awareness (MGA) course. The secondary objectives include increasing students’ knowledge of enhanced multigenerational collaboration and communication strategies in preparation for future clinical practice. A pilot group of eight participants from various university departments reviewed the course content and completed preenrollment and postenrollment surveys, providing feedback regarding the applicability and perceived usefulness of the multigenerational awareness …
The Impacts Of Age-Related Peripheral Hearing Loss, Central Auditory Processing, And Cognition On Quality Of Life In Older Adults: A Scoping Review, Brian M. Kreisman, Samantha E. Vasquez, Anna J. Bierma
The Impacts Of Age-Related Peripheral Hearing Loss, Central Auditory Processing, And Cognition On Quality Of Life In Older Adults: A Scoping Review, Brian M. Kreisman, Samantha E. Vasquez, Anna J. Bierma
University Faculty Publications and Creative Works
This scoping review aims to synthesize peer-reviewed literature exploring quality of life (QoL) for individuals with age-related hearing loss (ARHL), age-related central auditory processing (ARCAP) deficits, and age-related cognitive decline. A growing body of research has identified ARHL as a risk factor for the development of dementia, highlighting the connection between the sensory and cognitive systems. As the aging population continues to grow, examining comorbid age-related hearing and cognitive decline is especially relevant. These conditions may have potential negative consequences on the daily functioning, social participation, mental health, and overall wellbeing of older adults. A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature …
Fear Of Falling: A Collaborative Approach To Treatment, Alexandra Uhren, Celeste Delap, Kate Jansen
Fear Of Falling: A Collaborative Approach To Treatment, Alexandra Uhren, Celeste Delap, Kate Jansen
Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration
Purpose: Physical Therapy (PT) and Behavioral Health (BH) often overlap in patient care; however, collaborative treatment is always not utilized by providers. This case study details the interdisciplinary treatment of a 69-year-old female with a fear of falling; emphasizing the importance of interprofessional collaborative care in treating Fear of Falling (FOF) in individuals at risk for fall-related injury with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and PT interventions.
Problem: FOF is common among older adults and can result in physical, psychological, and social consequences (Lee & Tak, 2023; MacKay et al., 2021). Patients at risk of fall-related injury experience decreased self-confidence in …
Embodied Aging: Older Adults’ Gendered Participation In Physical And Recreational Activity In Assisted Living, Gavin Anderson
Embodied Aging: Older Adults’ Gendered Participation In Physical And Recreational Activity In Assisted Living, Gavin Anderson
Self-Designed Majors Honors Papers
This study examines how older adults interpret their experiences with physical and recreational activity in assisted living, and how these interpretations influence how they engage in their everyday social and physical contexts. In the fall of 2025, eleven older adults—nine women and two men—living in an assisted living facility in a coastal city in Southeastern Connecticut participated in in-depth semi-structured interviews. The facility provides both short-term post-acute care and long-term residential care, offering structured opportunities for physical and recreational engagement.
Past research demonstrates that participation in physical and recreational activity provides substantial benefits for older adults; yet, the lived experience …
Preparing For Change: Supporting Dementia Transitions Through Occupational Therapy And Caregiver Education, Kelly Ann Mooney
Preparing For Change: Supporting Dementia Transitions Through Occupational Therapy And Caregiver Education, Kelly Ann Mooney
OTD Capstones
This capstone project focused primarily on supporting caregivers of individuals living with dementia within a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). Caregivers of spouses with dementia often experience increased burden, stress, and difficulty navigating the transition from independent living to higher levels of care. Guided by principles of occupational therapy, this project aimed to enhance caregiver knowledge, confidence, and overall well-being through the development and implementation of targeted educational resources and support strategies.
Interventions included the creation of evidence-based educational handouts addressing common challenges for caregivers such as activities of daily living (ADLs), sleep, mealtime, and behavioral changes. Additionally, a structured …