Dysphagia & Cognitive Rehabilitation

Dysphagia (Swallowing Disorders/Difficulties)

A typical "swallow" involves several different muscles and nerves; it is a surprisingly complex process. Dysphagia can be caused by a difficulty anywhere in the swallowing process.
Signs and symptoms associated with dysphagia may include:
Being unable to swallow
Having to cut food into smaller pieces or avoiding certain foods because of trouble swallowing
Drooling
Bringing food back up (regurgitation)
Having frequent heartburn
Having food or stomach acid back up into your throat
Coughing or gagging when swallowing
Dysphagia (Swallowing Disorder) and Cognitive Rehabilitation
What are the benefits of the Korehab approach?
Analysis of Video Fluroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)
Dysphagia Evaluation (Posture, Observation, Oral control, Oral Stage, Pharyngeal control, Laryngeal Elevation)
Bedside Swallowing Review
EMG Biofeedback System
Analysis of EMG statistics
Tongue Motion/Retraction
Laryngeal Excursion and Coordination of UES Opening
Vocal Fold Closure
Swallowing Reflex and sensitivity of the structure
Strength of the larynx and pharynx muscles
Vital stim (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation)
Patient and Family Education

Cognitive Rehabilitation

Cognition refers to information-processing functions, including attention, memory, and executive functions (i.e., planning, problem solving, self- monitoring, self-awareness). Functional cognition is the interaction of cognitive skills and self-care, and community living skills. It refers to the thinking and processing skills needed to accomplish complex everyday activities such as household and financial management, medication management, volunteer activities, driving, and work.
Occupational therapy practitioners focus their interventions on the relationship between the client’s cognitive skills, functional performance, and environmental context to enhance the daily life experience of individuals with cognitive impairment.
01. Human genetics and/or development
Environmental deprivation, fetal alcohol syndrome, learning disabilities, pervasive developmental disorders
02. Neurologic disease, injuries, and disorders
Stroke, traumatic brain injury [TBI], Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease and related major neurocognitive disorders [dementias], rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, lupus, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiac and circulatory conditions
03. Mental illness
Schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders
04. Transient or continuing life stresses or changes
Stress-related disorders, pain syndromes, anxiety disorders, grief and loss
What are the benefits of the Korehab approach?
Global Strategy Learning and Awareness Approaches
Domain-Specific Strategy Training
Specific Functional Skills Training
Environmental Modifications and Use of Assistive Technology
Paper Based Assessment
Computer based Assessment
Cognitive Retraining Embedded in Functional Activity
Computer Based Cognitive Program