RSCC Occupational Therapy Assistant Program

Whether coffee makes a person anxious or helps boost their memory may come down to their DNA, according to research that suggests further studies on caffeine should be customised to a person's genetic profile.

Interesting research on how caffeine can improve memory and protect against destruction of brain cells in one segment of the population AND cause yet another segment to have increased anxiety and nervousness.

At Atlanta's Washington Park Pool, Anne Dunivin slowly and gingerly makes her way into the water. She says, "My girls get me to the pool, twice a week. And I swim for at least half a mile. I swim laps, from that end to this end and then back."

To go along with the studying on the ageing adult we've been doing. This is proof that slowing down is inevitable, but the healthy adult can be active for many years.

Photo credit: John A. Rogers/University Of Illinois Researchers from Northwestern University and the University of Illinois have developed a discreet, wearable device that provides around-the-clock monitoring of both heart and skin health. The skin-like patch measures a mere five centimeters square and is designed to be worn directly on the skin, for example on a user's wrist much like a band aid.

I thought this was a neat idea, based on the lessons recently on cardiopulmonary health.

I found this PDF about MET levels that was created by the Heart Centre at St. Paul's Hospital in Canada. I liked how they explained what MET is.

This video was very helpful for me to be able to see not only the hip precautions, but also the recommended movements as well as hearing the different predicaments which might lead to one being in those positions.

I found this question, on the AOTA web site, of whether OT practitioners could assess a clients gait while assessing mobility. It indicated the possibility of crossing into PT's scope of practice but also included ways and why certain assessments can be incorporate in the scope of OT through functional mobility.

Here ya go coffee lovers! I too am a coffee lover! Which is why I wanted to share this article It is about a study that shows how caffeinated coffee helps improve the flow of blood in the veins and capillaries. We all need a productive flow of blood pumping in and out of our hearts.....so drink up!.

Relevant to chapter 33 for Exam II, I found this article explaining early postoperative prosthesis for transtibial lower extremity amputations. It has pictures of the prosthetic and wrappings, as well as, proper pillow propping and bed positioning.

I love this website. It should be titled "Restrictions Made Easy." The Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Washington Medical Center has created this website to provide handouts for multiple conditions to include sternal precautions, ADLs following surgery of the abdomen, self-care after breast reconstruction, etc. This website will make it easy to accurately advise and treat our patients.

This article pin points some of the key reasons restraints may be used and offers alternatives. It also offers characteristics or behaviors to watch out for in order to prevent the need of restraint.

This web site provides resources to aging individuals. It includes studies, programs, tools, prevention services, among many others. This web site is a reliable resource that can be share in patient education. Our materials are designed to assist health professionals in learning about and engaging in activities of CDC's Healthy Aging Program and The Healthy Brain Initiative to promote independence andwellbeing. Access general health information for older adults. Get email updates To receive email updates about this page, enter your email address:

Falls put you at risk of serious injury. Prevent falls with these simple fall-prevention measures, from reviewing your medications to hazard-proofing your home. By Mayo Clinic Staff Fall prevention may not seem like a lively topic, but it's important. This web site lists 6 simple was to help aging individuals avoid falls. It goes along with what we have learned in class.

This video gives a 3D image of the contraction of the diaphragm and the benefits of deep belly breathing. Seeing what's going on inside the body helped me to realize how it benefits the body.

Great visual and narrative of the heart and the affects of congestive heart failure. The visuals really help me to retain the information, so I thought I would share.

I just thought this was a creative video explaining what OT is and can do for people.

This website explains what people may or may not experience while ageing. And how the proper therapy can be beneficial.

Posted: More from Greatist: Laugh It Off Laughter canreduce the physical effects of stress (like fatigue) on the body. Drink Tea One study found that drinking black tea leads tolower post-stress cortisol levels and greater feelings of relaxation. Exercise That post-exerciseendorphin rush is one way to sharply cut stress.

This one has a lot more relaxation techniques. I like some of their options better. If your hectic lifestyle has got you down, WebMD's experts say relaxation techniques can bring you back into balance -- some in 5 minutes or less. Here's what to try.

This webpage gives a few relaxation techniques and reasons why the are effective for cardiopulmonary problems.

I found some very interesting information about upper extremity amputation. The article tells about the procedure and the role of the occupational therapist in the recovery process. With this procedure, an electrical prosthesis is controlled by the mind via nerve innervation. The nerves from the amputated arm are transferred to the pectoral muscles where they regenerate, which in turn allows movement of the prosthetic arm. I included this link from another website as well because there are videos available to watch. http://www.ric.org/conditions/prosthetics-orthotics/bionic/