arollwitz, Author at West Texas Rehab

Author: arollwitz

Technology-Free Holiday Shopping Guide for Kids

Posted on by arollwitz

This guide is meant to help you and the little ones in your life unplug for the Holidays by filling those carts with battery-free gifts. This list is a starting point to get ideas flowing and doesn’t include all the wonderful possibilities out there. Technology-Free Holiday Shopping Guide for Kids

Important questions to ask yourself when standing in the toy aisle: 

1: Is it age appropriate? 

Most kid toys will be helpfully labeled with an age range (or at least a minimum age). Keep in mind also the individual skills the child has.  If your recipient has developmental delays, you may need to shop in a younger category to better fit their needs and interests.  

2: Can it be played with in more than one way?

A toy’s versatility will foster imagination and problem solving. Not to mention provide hours of play possibilities.

3: Is it durable? 

Kids are hard on their toys. Will it survive the beatings?

Gift Ideas by Age

All ages: These items will work well for any age, just tailor them to meet the interests and developmental level of the intended recipient.

  • Books (fabric books for babies, board books for toddlers, fun, illustrated books for the early readers and chapter books for your older kids)
  • Balls (soft, easy to hold balls for babies/toddlers and sport specific ones for your older kids)
  • Clothes
  • “Experiences” like movie tickets, Zoo passes or park/library trips

0-6 months: Most stores keep baby registries open for months after the due date, so this can be a great place to check if parents are still needing supplies for their older infant, as well as nursery color schemes, and what items were already purchased.  New parents are always in need of consumable necessities too, like diapers and wipes.

  • Blankets
  • Floortime mirror
  • Teethers 
  • Rattles 
  • Essentials like diapers & wipes
  • High chair
  • Babysit for parents to have a date

6-12 months: This age group is on the move! There is a tremendous transformation as babies transition from infants to toddlers. They are gaining mobility through crawling, cruising and walking and are eager to explore their environments. They are also starting to eat purees and table foods and being weaned from the bottle. Older babies put everything in their mouths as they cut teeth, so make sure there are no choking hazards like loose buttons or small parts.

  • Shape sorters
  • Blocks
  • Stacking blocks
  • Balls
  • Ride-on or push toys 
  • Sippy cups
  • Tableware & utensils
  • Teethers

1 year: This age is refining their new mobility skills and developing early language and play skills.  They enjoy dumping items and putting things into containers, and are becoming more independent in self-feeding.

  • Pedal-free ride on toys (ones that are propelled by pushing against the ground)
  • Large crayons (finger crayons, wide diameter and triangle) 
  • Chunky cars
  • Ball poppers
  • Bubbles
  • Tableware sets
  • Stuffed animals
  • Pretend play sets (ie kitchen sets, toolbench, etc)
  • Bath toys

2-3 years: Preschoolers are refining their fine motor and eye-hand coordination skills. Movement is still really important for them and they’ll enjoy spending time outside. They are also starting to show more attention for tabletop activities like coloring and simple crafts.

  • Form Board puzzles (these have pieces that fit into a solid backing for the puzzle)
  • Indoor tent
  • Playground equipment (T-ball sets, swings, slides, etc)
  • Art supplies
  • Pretend play sets (ie kitchen sets, toolbench, etc)
  • Blocks
  • Megablocks (the giant legos)
  • Playdough and tools
  • Tricycle
  • Sidewalk chalk

4-5 years: Pre-K and Kinder years will have a spike in imagination and role playing. Kids this age enjoy pretend play as their favorite characters or community members like police officers and doctors. 

  • Puzzles
  • Dress-up costumes & accessories 
  • Dolls/action figures
  • Construction toys like legos and connector sets 
  • Markers, paint sets
  • Gross motor games
  • Scooters and bikes

6-8 years: Emerging readers, this age group is ready for turn-taking games and tabletop activities. 

  • Legos
  • Activity books
  • Science kits 
  • Craft kits
  • Board & card games (simple classics like Candy Land or Go Fish for your new readers, more advanced games for the older kids)

8-10 years: Older elementary school kids are more competent readers and are continuing to build their problem-solving and social skills.  Encourage their independence with items that will put their brains to work.  This is also the age when sleepovers to friends and family houses may begin, so think about the gear they might need for overnights. 

  • Board & card games 
  • Journals
  • Brain teaser games
  • Joke books
  • Suitcase/duffle bag 
  • Sleeping bag

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month

Posted on by arollwitz

November marks National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and celebrating the compassionate care that hospice and palliative services provide for individuals and families facing serious illnesses. This month serves as a reminder of the profound impact these services have on enhancing quality of life, managing symptoms, and offering holistic support to both patients and their loved ones.

Understanding Hospice and Palliative Care

The main focus is on quality of life, providing comfort, dignity, and support. Though often mentioned together, they address different needs:

  • Hospice Care is a specialized type of care for those with a terminal illness, typically when life expectancy is six months or less. It focuses on managing symptoms, reducing discomfort, and supporting emotional and spiritual needs.
  • Palliative Care, on the other hand, is broader in scope and can be provided at any stage of a serious illness. It is focused on relief from symptoms, pain, and stress, aiming to improve the quality of life regardless of the patient’s prognosis.

Why National Hospice and Palliative Care Month Matters

This month brings national attention to these vital services that are often misunderstood. Misconceptions surrounding hospice and palliative care can lead to hesitation or even avoidance when it comes to seeking support. By understanding the benefits and scope of these services, families and patients can make more informed choices about their care options. Hospice and palliative care provide a compassionate approach that allows patients to live fully, with dignity, even during challenging times.

The Benefits

Enhanced Quality of Life: Care teams work with patients to reduce pain and manage symptoms, creating a more comfortable experience.

  • Family and Caregiver Support: Care teams offer emotional and practical support to family members, helping them navigate difficult decisions and providing respite.
  • Personalized, Holistic Care: These services take a patient-centered approach, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
  • Empowerment and Choice: Patients and families are empowered to make decisions that align with their values and goals, bringing a sense of control in an uncertain time.

In September, we celebrate National Rehabilitation Awareness Week

Posted on by arollwitz

During the month of September and especially National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, we celebrate the rehabilitation professionals who all work together to make a difference in the lives of others. Therapists truly are some of the most highly caring and sensitive individuals who genuinely enjoy helping people. So, we want to say, “A BIG Thank You!” for the compassion, patience, and understanding you exhibit with your patients.

Did You Know?

The first ever National Rehabilitation Awareness Week was started in 1976, with a small campaign by Allied Service in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Fast forward 40+ years, the campaign has grown into a national awareness initiative dedicated to the caring professionals who help patients achieve their goals every day!

In honor of National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, we dug up some fun facts about the fields of therapy:

Physical Therapy Fun Facts

  • According to Forbes, physical therapy ranks among the top 10 “happiest jobs” in America.
  • Many of today’s physical therapy techniques date back thousands of years. The first use of massage and hydrotherapy goes as far back as 460 BC.
  • Physical therapy as a profession actually started during World War I as there was a need to take care of injured soldiers, and the first PTs during WWI were called “reconstruction aides”.
  • Physical therapy began as a female-only profession. The initial physical therapy professional organization was called the American Women’s Physical Therapy Association and had 274 members.
  • In 1922, the American Women’s Physical Therapy Association changed their name to the American Physiotherapy Association. Then in the 1940’s, the organization changed its name once again to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), whose members today include over 100,000 therapists in the U.S. alone.
  • The demand for physical therapy increased in the late 1960s and 1970s. Schools could not graduate PTs fast enough during this time, so the career of physical therapy assistant was created.

Occupational Therapy Fun Facts

  • Occupational therapy techniques date back farther than PT. In 100 BC, a Greek physician named Asclepiades used OT techniques to treat mental illness.
  • In 1917, the occupational therapy profession was founded by three men and three women.
  • Like PTs, OTs treated injured soldiers in World War I and World War II.
  • Today, over 30% of occupational therapists work in the pediatric field, but OTs did not actually work with children until the mid-20th century.
  • In 1975, public schools began employing thousands of OTs to help disabled children.
  • The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) celebrated their 100-year anniversary in 2017. Their founding name was the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy. Today, membership includes over 65,000 occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and students.

Speech Therapy Fun Facts 

  • The speech language pathology profession began in the 18th century in England.
  • Many World War II soldiers suffered brain injuries and had resulting aphasia. Thus, the need for speech rehabilitation services attracted large numbers of men and women to the profession of speech therapy.
  • The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) began in 1925 at a meeting of the National Association of Teachers of Speech in New York City.
  • Since the establishment of the American Academy of Speech Correction in 1925, the association has changed its name four times, and formally became known as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in 1978.
  • Today, ASHA membership includes over 218,000 speech therapists.

This article was written by Jami Cooley

To learn more about the services provided by West Texas Rehab, go to https://westtexasrehab.org/services/

As I See It – Disability Education and Inclusion

Posted on by arollwitz

By Scott Klumb

In the world of education, we need to have more inclusion and representation in early and higher education. We have made great strides in improving disability education and inclusivity through K-12, but we still have a long way to go. Creating space to educate others on disability is imperative to making sure people have a better understanding of the disabled community. This can be done through the academic setting as well as other creative avenues.

As an autistic person with Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), not only did I struggle academically in a traditional school setting, but socially too, as I was bullied for most of my life. The bullying began in preschool and continued throughout my entire education. I was scared to go to school because of the bullying, and I was also nervous to share it with my family or my teachers. I didn’t want the school officials to intervene due to fear that the bullies would pick on me even more.

When I was pursuing higher education, it was going well, and most of my teachers were very accommodating and accepting of wearing a microphone that would allow me to process everything they were saying while I wore a headset. But one semester, I went up to my new instructor showing her my accommodation paperwork, which included wearing a microphone for my CAPD. She looked at me and said, “you don’t honestly expect me to wear that, do you?” Then she laughed at me and looked at the classroom and said, “don’t you all think I speak loud enough?” The class then began to laugh with her. This humiliated me in front of a large classroom and made me feel awful as a human being. I went home in tears and called my parents about it. We then reported it to my film school, and the teacher was fired. It is illegal to not follow state accommodations, and I was honestly in shock that I would come across someone that would question me. I feel for any other disabled person who has gone through something similar because we should never have to feel bad for being a disabled human being.

Looking back at my experience, I believe that if public and private schools beginning at the preschool level focused on the inclusion of the disabled community into their traditional curriculum, that disabled people would be more normalized. I believe that it would result in fewer instances of bullying towards disabled people in an academic setting. This can be as simple as reading stories to young children that include characters who are disabled, to inviting people with various disabilities to volunteer directly in the classroom or have them read to the children during story hour. Allowing the schools to create a community that is inclusive to everyone will ultimately create more acceptance and inclusivity for disabled children. It is important to teach that there is a wide range of disabilities, and that not all disabilities are visible. The majority of people that meet me can’t imagine that I have a disability. One of the biggest struggles for someone like myself who is autistic is that it is an invisible disability.

Going into school, whether it is for early or higher education, can be scary because people can be quick to judge. People think they are complimenting me by saying, “you don’t look autistic” but the thing is, autism is a spectrum and doesn’t have a look. This can be extremely dismissive and anxiety provoking because someone should never have to explain why or how they are disabled because of another person’s ignorance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 4 adults in the United States have some sort of disability. Because of this significant number, we need to be more open to teaching kids and young adults about disabilities as well as having fair representation that disabled people can go to school comfortably knowing that they will not be judged or bullied for being “different.”

We as society have been doing a good job of educating the disabled community so that they can reach their full potential, which should be the goal for all human beings. In Colorado, there are schools like TACT and the Temple Grandin School that are specifically focused on this goal for autistic people. Last Fall, I taught filmmaking at TACT (Teach Autism Community Trades). I was told by many teachers there that they have never seen the students so engaged. I think part of this was because the students knew I was also autistic and that we were able to connect on another level with our shared experiences. The students learned a lot and TACT will most likely have me back to teach again.

Educating people about disability doesn’t just have to just be in the school setting. A creative way to do this is through film. Films like Crip Camp and CODA are excellent for exposing students to the disabled world. Crip Camp shows how far we’ve come since the 1970s and how we can continue to push forward today. There are many disabled filmmakers who can speak to their films and do panels in a classroom through Zoom or in person.

I personally have a passion for filmmaking, and I love to educate people through my documentary work. I began by making my film called Autism: One Man’s Journey, which was a story about my life. My goal was to help educate people on the autistic experience as well as give others hope for fighting through the extreme struggles of mental health. My therapist, who is an autism specialist, always says that he learns about autism from the real experts, his clients who experience it every single day.

It is important that we as a society can continue finding ways to normalize disability which can be the first step to acceptance. We can make sure that we are creating safe environments in the school setting to educate children about the disabled community to help prevent bullying. We can also use creative avenues to help others learn about disabilities in the hopes of creating a more inclusive world.

Scott Klumb is an award-winning filmmaker. He is a storyteller, cinematographer, and editor, knowledgeable in a wide array of film styles, including documentary, where he creates artistic films with meaningful stories to captivate his audience. Scott has found a passion for filmmaking, pursuing his talent both professionally and in his free time. Scott’s films have been in dozens of festivals across the world. The notoriety has been encouraging, but Scott’s primary focus is to encourage others and continue his growth as a filmmaker.

5.6 Million++ Americans are Living with Limb Loss and Limb Difference: New Study Published

Posted on by arollwitz
The Amputee Coalition’s newly commissioned study titled, Prevalence of Limb Loss and Limb Difference in the United States: Implications for Public Policy was published on February 14, 2024. Through collaboration with Avalere, part of Avalere Health, a US-based healthcare consulting firm, the Coalition conducted an analysis of insurance claims data to estimate the number of people currently living with limb loss and limb difference.

The findings indicate that in the United States today there are more than 5.6 million++ people living with limb loss and limb difference, of those are nearly 2.3 million+ people living with limb loss and another 3.4 million+ people living with limb difference. “Historically, individuals born with limb differences are a subgroup that has been all but ignored in previous research,” said Natalie Harold, Resource Development Manager. The “plus-plus” part of this 5.6 million++ figure acknowledges that the known estimate does not include everyone. Most notably, by using insurance claims data the study could only capture people covered under specific types of insurance. The analysis could not account for individuals who are uninsured or covered by Veterans Affairs or TRICARE. Data sources for this report include Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance claims.

“Information about those born with limb differences or those who undergo amputations is not data that is collectively tracked in a systematic way in the US. With this new information and evidence of increased prevalence we know there is a tremendous need for increased support and education, ensuring those living with limb loss and limb difference can thrive in their lives as they choose. We are now able to ground our work to improve quality of life outcomes and health policies for our community and those at risk of amputation with this prevalence data,” said Ashlie White, Chief Strategy and Programs Officer.

Prior to this critical study, researchers have relied on outdated predictions for estimating the limb loss population and the limited data that is available on the limb difference population within the United States. Updated prevalence estimates are needed to inform national advocacy efforts and policy initiatives that will increase the support the Coalition can provide to the growing community of people with limb loss and limb difference and improve their access to equitable care. Gaining a better understanding of this incredibly diverse community was the primary motivation behind the investment and the effort undertaken to yield this new information. With this endeavor, the Coalition remains the most trusted source of limb loss and limb difference statistics.

Key Information:
• 5.6 million ++ Americans are Living with Limb Loss and Limb Difference
• 2.3 million+ Americans are Living with Limb Loss
• 3.4 million+ Americans are Living with Limb Difference
• Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance claims were utilized for this analysis.
• The claims analysis did not account for individuals who are uninsured or covered by Veterans Affairs or TRICARE, accounting for the ++ in the total population of unaccounted Americans living with limb loss and limb difference.

Please contact research@amputee-coalition.org with any questions or feedback regarding the study.

West Texas Rehab can help! Learn more!

 

 

Hearing Loss and Its Effect on Marriages

Posted on by arollwitz

Hearing loss can put a strain on even the most stable relationships. No matter which spouse loses their hearing, both are forced to adjust to a new normal because of the challenges hearing loss presents.

Hearing loss in relationships can be challenges. Hearing loss can negatively affect established relationships if it isn’t managed properly or fully understood. This may come as a surprise given nearly one-fifth of Americans have hearing loss – hardly a small amount. However, because of its prevalence, it’s important couples are prepared to tackle the problems that may arise if hearing loss rears its ugly head.

Negative Emotions Caused by Hearing Loss

If you and your spouse are struggling with the effects of hearing loss on your relationship, you’re certainly not the only ones. A large number of couples struggle to communicate with the same frequency and nuance as they once did after receiving a hearing loss diagnosis.

You may recognize these feelings have crept into your relationship lately:

  • Frustration – The spouse with hearing loss may be frustrated by changes to their way of life and feel their hearing loss is misunderstood by their partner. The other spouse may be frustrated they have to repeat themselves often in order to be understood.
  • Anger – Over time, pent-up frustration may be expressed as anger. You and your partner may find yourselves arguing about going out in public, using closed captions on the TV and losing much-needed communication in your relationship.
  • Stress – Sometimes the hearing partner feels pressure to step up to the plate to help their spouse. They may feel like a full-time liaison, responsible for filling in conversation gaps, doing chores that require interaction with other people and advocating for adequate medical care. The spouse with hearing loss may fear being too dependent on their partner and may not be comfortable with how extensive their medical needs have become.
  • Sadness – Someone with hearing loss may feel they are missing out on conversation, music and the world at large. The other spouse may mourn the changes in their partner and feel guilty that they cannot change their situation.
  • Loneliness – Depending on the severity of the hearing loss, it can be difficult to make small talk or sustain a conversation. People have misconceptions about hearing loss and may treat you or your spouse with disdain or pity because of it. This can make it hard to socialize and form meaningful connections with those who truly respect you.
  • Detachment – You and your spouse may feel estranged from each other where you once felt inseparably close. Some of the spontaneous moments of communication you used to enjoy together may no longer be physically possible, and that can take an emotional toll over time. This can be especially jarring if you’re used to having a rock-solid relationship built on open and honest communication.
  • Isolation – Some situations are simply too overwhelming for someone with hearing loss. Busy restaurants, raucous sports games, loud concerts and parties with blaring music may all be off-limits now. Hearing loss can also cause embarrassment and exhaustion, which may lead someone to stay at home instead of being subjected to the perceived judgments of others.

How to Cope with Hearing Loss as a Couple

The important thing to remember is that hearing loss is no one’s fault. It can be caused by any number of factors out of your control, like noise exposure, ototoxic medicines or aging. What you do have control over is how you handle hearing loss and move forward as a couple.

You are not necessarily doomed to divorce because of this obstacle. You have likely gone through many trying times together, such as losing a loved one, combatting a serious illness, raising children together, moving to another city or state and renegotiating your respective roles in the relationship as you’ve grown older. When you rose to each challenge, you likely became a stronger couple because of it.

Coping with hearing loss is no different. The following strategies may help you resolve some of the negative emotions you feel and rebuild your relationship:

  • Attending marriage counseling together
  • Agreeing to communicate in a healthier way devoid of blame or aggression
  • Getting a hearing aid or cochlear implant
  • Learning sign language together

Receive a Hearing Aid or Cochlear Implant Services from West Texas Rehabilitation Center

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, more than 28 million American adults could improve their quality of life with the help of a hearing aid. Despite this, most people who could benefit from hearing aids never try them – including approximately 84 percent of eligible 20- to 69-year-olds. Among those who have tried hearing aids, a large percent find that they have had a positive impact on their marriage.

At West Texas Rehabilitation Center, our audiology team will work with you to find the best hearing tool for your level of hearing loss. We have a wide variety of new hearing aids to choose from at every price level, and we also offer hearing aid repair. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about the performance of your device – we offer a 60-day trial period to make sure you’re seeing results, as well as cleanings every four months free of charge!

If you’re interested in trying a hearing aid or receiving cochlear implant services, contact us today at our Abilene, San Angelo or Ozona locations.

The holidays are “hear”: How to make the holidays hearing-loss friendly.

Posted on by arollwitz

In this blog, you’ll learn some tips on how to help create a hearing-loss friendly environment that’ll help everyone thrive while celebrating the holidays.

One of our favorite times of the year is here… the holiday season. It’s a time for family members, friends or loved ones to get together to celebrate and spend time catching up with one another.

While this time of year may bring joy for some, it may bring some added stress or emotions to others, especially those with hearing loss.

Here are some ways you can support your guests as a host:

  • Pull aside the individual with a hearing loss in a discrete way and ask how you can help make their visit easier and ask if there is there anything you can do to support them throughout the gathering.
  • Create a quiet area for people to catch up.
  • Make sure the room is bright enough for everyone to see each other, especially to help everyone follow the conversation.
  • See if you can turn down, turn off or mute holiday music, football games, or other background noise, particularly while eating.
  • Check in with your guests. If you notice someone with hearing loss may be withdrawing from the conversations or quiet, please try to help bring them back into the conversation and encourage others to do the same.
  • Try to take a moment to chat with everyone, including those with hearing loss.
  • Ask those with hearing loss where the best spot for them to sit at the dinner table is ahead of time and help make it easier for them.
  • Speak clearly while providing dinner instructions or even in general.
  • If someone is unable to hear you, try rephrasing the words to help them better understand you.
  • During the dinner, ask if people will take turns and go around the table to share a favorite memory or highlight from the year, what they are thankful for, or what they are looking forward to in the following year as an activity.

Here are some tips on how you can handle your hearing loss with grace at the holiday gatherings you’ll be attending:

  • Notify the host ahead of time to let them know you may have a difficult time hearing in certain environments and see about accommodations.
  • Arrive early to catch up with family and friends before it gets too crowded or too loud.
  • Be honest, let people know about your communication needs and self-advocate if you are having a hard time hearing.
  • Wear your hearing aids at all times to make sure your hearing loss doesn’t get in the way of a good time.
  • Make sure your hearing aids are clean, up-to-date and your batteries are fully charged.
  • Ask a family member or friend to help remind others of your communication needs and if they can help repeat things.
  • Have reasonable expectations and know it’s okay if you don’t hear everything.
  • Consider using an assistive listening device just like the ReSound Multi Mic or the ReSound Micro Mic to help make sure you never miss a word.
  • Speak up if you are having trouble hearing or give visual cues to help notify others.
  • See if background noises like holiday music can be reduced or limited.
  • Choose the best seat to you and make sure you can see others.
  • Find a quieter area for conversations, especially if they are more one-one-one if need be.
  • Converse with those next to you.
  • Ask if closed captioning can be turned on the television if anything like a football game is being shown.
  • Don’t shout across the room, make sure to walk over to the person and talk to them directly.

Keep these tips in mind when hosting or attending a holiday gathering or get together to ensure everyone feels included in the environment. We hope you all enjoy your holiday gatherings and have a safe and happy holiday season! Contact our Hearing Centers if you have any questions! They are “hear” to help.

Down Syndrome Explained: Rocking an Extra Chromosome

Posted on by arollwitz

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused when abnormal cell division results in extra genetic material from chromosome 21. Instead of the typical 46 chromosomes, people with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes. Having an extra chromosome changes brain and body development resulting in physical and cognitive differences. 

There are three different types of Down syndrome: 

  1. Trisomy 21 is the most common and accounts for 95% of the cases. It is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. 
  2. Mosaic is when there is a mixture of cells with the normal 46 chromosomes and those with 47 that have an extra chromosome 21. 
  3. Translocation is when there are the normal 46 chromosomes but then an extra copy of chromosome 21 attaches to another chromosome; usually chromosome 14.

 

Common characteristics: 

While characteristics vary from person to person, these are some of the most common:

Physical Features Cognitive/Social Features Developmental Delays
  • A flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose
  • Almond-shaped eyes that slant up
  • A short neck, fingers, and toes
  • Small ears
  • Short attention span
  • Poor judgment
  • Impulsive behavior
  • Slower learning
  • Delayed language and speech development
  • Gross motor skills
  • Fine motor skills
  • Speech and language skills

Myths vs. Facts

Myths  Facts 
Down syndrome is a rare disorder. 

Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.

All children with Down syndrome have a severe cognitive disability.

People with Down syndrome cannot be active members of society.

 It is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. Approximately 1 out of 772 babies in the United States are born with Down syndrome.

More children with Down syndrome are born to parents younger than 35 but the likelihood of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with age. 

Most people with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive or intellectual disability.

People with Down syndrome participate in a wide range of activities in their communities.  

 

What can I do to help? 

Talk to your child’s pediatrician about services, equipment, and community resources in your area for support as they learn new skills.  Examples that may be appropriate:

 

Healthcare Equipment/Devices Community Resources
  • Medical Specialists
    • Pediatrics, Orthopedics, Neurology, Genetics, and others as appropriate
  • ECI (Early Childhood Intervention, 0-3 years)
  • Pediatric Outpatient 
    • Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy
  • AAC (Augmented/Alternative Communication)
  • DME (Durable Medical Equipment)
    • Orthotics
    • Standing frame
    • Gait trainer
    • Walker 
  • Daycare settings for children with special needs
  • School-based therapy and accommodations
  • Adaptive Sports (Challenger League, etc.)
  • Upside Down Club of Abilene (or local chapter in your area)
    • Annual Buddy Walk event

 

Organizations and Websites that offer Support 

This website has resources and programs; education for parents as educators; supports for advocacy; an annual convention; and Down syndrome news stories and events. Each state also has various links to help at the state level. 

This website has resources and support by age and by topic. It also has help with advocacy and policy. 

This website offers resources, programs, research, and events specific to individuals with mosaic Down syndrome

This website offers resources and support, events, and even a shop for Down syndrome awareness 

This website has programs and resources for people with down syndrome and their families. These resources/programs include apps, a magazine, workshops, and podcasts. These resources are also available in Spanish. 

This website was created to help people with intellectual disabilities with advocacy and policy and helps to connect families with local agencies that can help with these areas. 

This website offers information about research and medical care; offers programs and events; advocacy; and news about people with Down syndrome. The foundation helps to fund the  Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome which is committed to research and medical care for people with Down syndrome. 

This website offers resources, events, and personal stories for families in the Big Country area.

To learn more about all of the services we provide, click here.

October is Physical Therapy Month

Posted on by arollwitz

October is physical therapy month and at WTRC, we take our commitment to providing excellent care to our patients very seriously. We also are very proud of the fact that each therapist will see one patient at a time instead of dividing our attention between multiple patients at once. We believe that our patient’s recovery is key and we have better outcomes due to being able to spend quality time with each one of our patients. Our patients will be seen and treated 1 on 1 by a licensed, certified therapist every visit, for the entirety of the visit! – Abilene Adult Physical Therapy Department

SPINAL MANIPULATION: Spinal manipulation is a very effective treatment for lower back pain, we have several physical therapists who are trained in manipulation therapy!

CUPPING: WTRC has many instruments & techniques to offer for treatment of soft tissue disorders. Our therapists are trained in Myofascial DecompressionTM. Myofascial DecompressionTM is a technique that lifts the layers of tissue as opposed to other techniques that compress tissue. Our therapists utilize this technique along with stretching and exercise to optimize function and mobility.

TMJ/TMD: Temporomandibular joint disorder is a common condition that limits the function of the jaw. It currently affects more than 10 million people in the United States consisting of difficulty with chewing and limited jaw opening. TMJ disorders range from poor posture, clenching, lock jaw, stress, and malalignment in the teeth. Our physical therapists are trained to treat your TMJ disorders to allow you to talk, eat, brush your teeth, etc…without further limitation!

TRX: Our therapists are trained in TRXⓇ suspension training. This device is safe and effective in treating many musculoskeletal injuries or disabilities for all ages. Suspension training allows us to deload the body without heavy resistance training and use body weight training to isolate specific muscle groups to prevent compensatory movement patterns. 

CONCUSSIONS: Concussions can result in dizziness, nausea, imbalance, light sensitivity, and vision disturbances, among other complications. If you’ve had a concussion from a fall or injury, come see one of our certified vestibular therapists to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. 

DYNAVISION: Do you want to improve your hand-eye coordination, reaction time, balance, or cognitive performance? Come see the professionals at West Texas Rehab Center for training using the state of the art device, Dynavision. This tool will challenge you in more ways than one to improve your visual and motor reaction time. 

VERTIGO: Have you ever experienced vertigo or inner ear problems? Consider physical therapy treatment with our certified vestibular therapists. You will have a very thorough evaluation with state of the art equipment to get to the root of your problems.

Is your world spinning? Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of spinning dizziness that can be treated within a few short sessions (sometimes even 1 or 2 times!).

DIZZINESS: ISEN video goggles are specialized pieces of equipment used to provide more accurate results during vestibular assessments. Our vestibular certified therapists can help to determine the cause of your dizziness by using these goggles during your evaluation and treatments. 

DRIVER SCREENINGS: Returning to driving can be scary after an injury or change in health status. Our physical therapists can perform for a comprehensive driving evaluation to assess any cognitive or physical limitations related to operating a motor vehicle. We want you to feel confident when it comes to the safety of you and those around you on the road. 

ZERO G GAIT & BALANCE SYSTEM: Looking to improve your walking ability? Our state of the art Zero G can help by eliminating falls and reducing the load on your legs & spine while practicing safe walking to improve your independence!

BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION: Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) is a technique that increases strength without applying a heavy load to a joint or muscle. At WTRC, we can use BFR to help you regain your strength even before you can put all of your weight on your leg or while you have lifting restrictions. This helps you return to your old self even faster.

Recovering from an ACL tear? Let us use Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) to get that quad strength back even in the early stages of your recovery and reduce your risk of future injury!

NECK PAIN: Do you struggle with tension and pain in your neck and feel you have tried everything? Have you heard about dry needling? Come to WTRC for an evaluation by a licensed physical therapist and see if dry needling is appropriate for you.

DRY NEEDLING: WTRC has skilled physical therapists with a doctorate level degree and several are certified dry needling providers. This is just one of many skills they have to offer. Dry needling involves a technique in which a small needle is inserted into the skin and targets trigger points in a muscle that are determined to be problematic by the physical therapist. This technique allows the muscle to relax and improves circulation to the tissue promoting healing of the tissue itself & decreasing pain.

What to Expect at your Child’s First Pediatric Therapy Evaluation

Posted on by arollwitz

Your child’s pediatrician just sent a referral for a therapy evaluation.  Now what?  What does this mean? Do I need to do anything? These are all valid questions for a parent who has never had experience with the therapy world.  It can be confusing and overwhelming when you do not know what to expect.  Here is the process of an evaluation at the West Texas Rehab Center and what to expect at your child’s first evaluation.

  1. Why you are Bringing your Child to the West Texas Rehab Center78 

Your child’s pediatrician may tell you that they are sending a referral for a therapy evaluation.  Your pediatrician may do this after a parent voices concerns or observes concerns regarding their child’s development.  There are 3 different referrals that they send depending on  what your child may benefit from.  The 3 therapy services that we offer are:

  • Occupational Therapy– addresses fine motor skills, visual motor and perceptual skills, upper extremity and core strength, bilateral coordination,  developmental milestones, sensory integration, activities of daily living(dressing, brushing teeth, hygiene, etc.), feeding, and more!
  • Physical Therapy– addresses gross motor skills, functional mobility, pain, coordination, developmental milestones (sitting, crawling, walking, etc.), strength, balance, and more!
  • Speech-Language Therapy– addresses communication, expressive and receptive language, articulation, dysphagia, feeding, oral motor skills, and social skills.
                    1. Scheduling your appointment
  •  The doctor will send us the referral and once we receive it, our staff will call to schedule the initial evaluation on a day and time that works for you!
  1. Getting to the Rehab Center
  • We are located at 4601 Hartford St. in Abilene, and at 3001 S. Jackson St. in San Angelo.
  1. Admissions

Admissions is the first place that you will go for the initial evaluation.  In admissions the staff will need to gather specific information from you in order to establish you as a patient.  This includes demographic information, contact information, insurance, identification,  and a brief medical history.

  • Make sure that you bring:
    – proper identification
    – insurance cards
    – custody paperwork, etc. if the child has been placed with you
    – any other papers (psychological evaluations, IQ testing, etc.) that you feel are necessary for the therapist to know (if this has been completed)
  1. The Evaluation


The admissions staff will walk you back to the Pediatric Department after you complete the necessary paperwork.  At this time there are 1 of 2 things that you may start with.

If your child is having more than one discipline evaluate your child on that day, you may start by seeing Family Support Services.  They will gather a full medical history and see if there are any other services or supports that the child and/or family may benefit from.  If your child is only being evaluated by one discipline that day, the therapist will come get you from the waiting room to start!

During the evaluation, the therapist will go over why your child is having an evaluation, medical history, concerns that you may have and current skill level.  Be prepared to answer questions!  The therapist may also have you fill out questionnaires.  This is how therapists get a lot of their information needed to determine if therapy is going to be beneficial for your child.

The therapist will complete an assessment during that evaluation.  Depending on which service is evaluating and which concerns are present, these may be looking at developmental skills, measuring strength, range of motion, social skills, language skills, etc. It is beneficial for your child to wear clothes that they can move around in and to wear tennis shoes.

  1. Recommendations


At the end of the evaluation the therapist will either determine that your child requires additional therapy services or not.  This typically is seen as weekly services if they do recommend services.  The therapist will bring you up to the pediatric office secretary to make sure that your contact information is correct and your preferences of days/times for scheduling services.   The therapist will then write up a report with their findings. In this report they will write about assessment scores, recommendations for how many times they would like to see you, and establish goals to work on during therapy.

 

This is establishing the PLAN OF CARE (POC).  The POC is then sent to the doctor that sent the referral. The doctor will read the report and sign it if they are in agreement with the recommendations.  Once the doctor has signed the POC, the staff at the Rehab Center will request authorization for therapy visits if necessary. Once that happens, we can begin seeing your child on a regular basis as recommended by the therapist.  Our staff will contact you to set up an appointment time and establish when this will start.

If you feel like your child needs a therapy evaluation you can talk to their pediatrician to get a referral.  If you have questions pertaining to the West Texas Rehab Center please feel free to give us a call! Abilene: 325-793-3400    San Angelo: 325-223-6300