Carol DeFazio, MSOTR, has been a practicing Occupational Therapist for over 21 years. She has a Master of Science degree and is certified through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Carol is also certified as an LSVT BIG provider for Parkinson’s disease. Originally from NY, she has lived in Vero Beach for over 8 years. Her passion is to provide quality, individualized services to patients.
The LSVT BIG & LOUD program is a research-based therapy program, focused on body perception and movement patterns. Frequently, an individual with Parkinson’s disease becomes unaware of their movement patterns and/or self-conscious of how others perceive their mobility. They have difficulty with body calibration and self-regulation; which often results in smaller movements and a weaker voice.
Multiple studies show the LSVT BIG & LOUD program surpasses other protocols as an effective treatment in managing symptoms in Parkinson’s disease. This program is best when started immediately upon diagnosis, but can be beneficial at any time throughout the life span with modifications. The patient engages in four therapy session per week, lasting one hour. Patients need to repeat their exercises daily. The program lasts for 4 weeks and must continue with the exercises for maximum benefit. Patients should see the therapist every 3 months to one year for and checks as needed.
Clinicians must be certified as an LSVT clinical provider in order to perform these treatments. Carol provides the LSVT BIG or movement portion of this and her partner Jacqueline Davis, MA, CCC-SLP, provides the speech therapy side of the LSVT LOUD. Services can be provided in the patient’s home for their privacy and these are Medicare-covered services. You can find more in-depth information on this program at https://www.lsvtglobal.com.
Your Occupational Therapy appointment will be held in your own home without a need to worry about transportation. Contact Carol at (772) 208-8662 to discuss how they can help you and to schedule an appointment. Also, visit her website at www.lifeenrichmentandwellness.com to learn more.