Washington University Occupational Therapy On The Air Earlier this month we had the opportunity to talk about our Occupational Therapy Services on the radio show, "We're Having A Senior Moment." The show is hosted by Shawn Rimerman, President of ComForCare St. Louis and airs on Sunday mornings at 7 am on KTRS The Big 550. Stephanie Stegman, MOT, OTR/L gave an insightful look into the field of Occupational Therapy, the services provided by Washington University Occupational Therapy and the role of our clinical practice in community-based healthcare. Take a few minutes and listen to our episode of the show! We're Having A Senior Moment Radio Show...
Winter Tips For Fall Prevention Content provided by Sarah Mecadon, MOT, OTR/L Winter is a busy time of year with many people out and about. As the temperature drops and winter weather occurs, the rate of injury is sure to increase with falls becoming more frequent. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among all ages, even more so for older adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that approximately one million Americans are injured each year due to falls. Here are some tips to decrease your chance of falling this winter: 1. Wear proper footwear and gloves: Ensure that your shoes provide enough support while walking on slippery surfaces. Wearing gloves allows you to keep your hands out of pockets for improved balance and to allow you to hold on to railings for additional support. 2. Take small steps: Small steps (almost like a shuffle) can help you maintain your balance while walking on slippery surfaces. 3. Pay attention and take your time: Be alert while you are walking and do not rush. Be sure that the area you are walking in is well lit and you are able to see any icy patches. 4. Stay inside when able: When a winter storm hits, the best way to prevent falling is to stay indoors. Unless the trip is necessary, consider staying home until the weather conditions improve. If you need to leave your home, use pathways that are cleared of snow/ice. 5. Use assistance/Ask for help: If you occasionally use a device to help with mobility, you should use it when out and about in winter weather. When navigating stairs, use the handrail for extra support. Ask a family member or friend to help clear a path for walking to and from your house. 6. If you do fall: Wait for help. Waiting for assistance can ensure that you get up safely and prevent additional injury. From the Milliken team, we hope you have a safe and Happy Holiday Season and Winter! If you do find yourself needing assistance for an injury related to your hands, wrist or upper extremity, Milliken Hand Rehabilitation Center is here to help! Learn more about the Milliken Hand Rehabilitation Center...
Check Stress Off Your Holiday To Do List Content provided by Jill Jonas, MSOT, OTR/L It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed during the holidays; a time when your calendar fills up and your to-do list keeps growing. In the midst of trying to keep track of everything, the most important things about the holidays can get lost in the shuffle. Adding a couple of the tips below to your to-do list can help lessen the stress and elevate the joy you experience this holiday season.
- Set a realistic schedule: Running from place to place can zap your holiday spirit. Set your priorities and be sure to schedule in downtime.
- Keep it simple: Scale down the things you have to do. For example, rather than preparing a complicated recipe, select one that is easy to prep and has a short list of ingredients.
- Plan ahead: Look ahead on your calendar and make a list of errands and items to get. This will reduce trips to the store and prevent rushing around at the last minute.
- Stick with healthy habits: Exercise and being in nature are both great ways to reduce stress so try to take time to go for a stroll outdoors when possible.
- Breathe: Trade in those shallow breaths and tension in your chest. Taking just a few deep breaths can significantly lower your stress level in the moment. For even more positive effects, try a breathing meditation or mindfulness exercise.
- Slow down and be in the moment: When spending time with others, let go of thoughts and worries about the past and the future. Soak in those special moments and think about what you are grateful for.
The tips provided for this holiday season focus on wellbeing and mindfulness, we hope you find them helpful as you have a happy and joyous holiday season!
As we approach the new year, consider taking time for yourself and evaluating the roles, habits, and routines that you have in your daily life.
Learn more about our Life Transitions program...
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