Title : Occupational therapy’s role in treating (SCI) subtle cognitive impairments
Abstract:
Subtle cognitive impairment (SCI) is a prevalent sequela, often unnoticed condition. (SCI) are seen in long covid, cancer-related cognitive impairments, “chemo brain,” anxiety, depression, and mild brain injury (concussion). AOTA advocates for our unique role in addressing functional cognition (the cognitive ability to perform daily life tasks, which includes metacognition, executive function and other domains of cognitive functioning, and performance skills). Evidence suggests Subtle Cognitive Impairments appear to be underdiagnosed; however, they can greatly impact a person’s occupation and ability to participate in ADL/IADL and work skills. Underrecognized SCI can impact the rehabilitation process, and when identified, the Occupational Therapy practitioner can provide treatment strategies to the multidisciplinary rehabilitation team to help improve outcomes. This course will review current knowledge of (SCI), how to differentially diagnose (SCI) from mild cognitive impairments (MCI), and the latest evidence regarding screening, self-reported measures, and best practices for treatment. Identification of contributing factors to SCI and the role of the OT practitioner as an integral part of the multidisciplinary team in SCI management will be presented. Participants will have strategies for immediate implementation into each practice setting.
