1088L - Exploring Mind-Body Exercise for Prevention, Maintenance, and Recovery in Adult Neurogenic Communication Disorders

Speech-language pathologists with expertise in mind-body techniques will discuss yoga, mindfulness meditation, and mindful walking and their applicability to prevention, counseling, programming, interprofessional collaboration, and activities for adults at risk for neurogenic disorders. It is possible that stress-reduction, emotional well-being, and quality of life improvements may result in better outcomes in speech-language pathology interventions and may reduce the risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease dementia. An overview of variables affecting physical activity in older adults (e.g., race, ethnicity, socio-economic, living situation) and factors that mitigate the negative effects of stress on the brain will be presented. Participants will have an opportunity to practice mindful walking and some simple yoga poses that may be used with older adults.