Although there is no known cure, the individuals diagnosed and their loved ones are highly motivated to access services that can enhance independence and quality of life.

The Interactive Metronome has been used successfully as part of the therapy services offered for both newly diagnosed patients as well as those who are experiencing significant functional declines.

Karen Farron, MHS, OTR/L graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1984 and Master’s Degree in Health Services from Washington University-St. Louis in 1990. She has worked as an Occupational Therapist for 23 years and as a Clinical Director for more than 15 of those years. She was recently appointed by Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius to the Kansas Board of Healing Arts on the Occupational Therapist Council.
Karen is a Senior OT at Kansas Rehabilitation Hospital working with patients whose diagnoses include multiple trauma, stroke, brain injury, surgical amputations, MS, and pulmonary disease.
She is married, has three children and enjoys running, bicycling and swimming.

Target Audience:
This self-study course welcomes SLP/SLPAs, PT/PTAs and OT/COTAs who have completed the Interactive Metronome Certification course.

Instructional Level:
Intermediate

Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Modify clinical application of the Interactive Metronome (IM) based on the patient’s functional impairments, such as adjusting "tempo" to assist with management of typical freezing and shuffling episodes;
2. Educate patients to compare differences in their balance and coordination based on their own selection of an assistive device and external support;
3. Establish a home exercise program, including measures to self-monitor changes in function, reduce falls, & promote greater independence

Specific Learning Outcomes for SLPs:

1. Determine IM candidacy & anticipated outcomes for patients with Parkinson's Disease;
2. Adapt IM treatment approach for the unique cognitive-linguistic and motor issues associated with Parkinson's Disease in order to facilitate IM performance and subsequent improvements in functional communication skills;
3. Establish home exercise programs for patients with Parkinson's Disease in order to maximize carryover and maintenance of treatment gains for as long as possible.