Author Archives: amosley

I'm a full-time student in Communications Disorders and Sciences at UofO. I also have two young children and work full time with adults with developmental disabilities. I enjoy exploring the great state of Oregon in which I was born. In my leisure time, I can also be found reading or engaging in various fiber arts.

Comparing transitional state foods

Transitional foods are under-utilized in the adult population as they may provide an opportunity to optimize eating pleasure and nutrition for individuals on a modifed texture diet. Yet, little is known about the behavioral properties of transitional foods and no research to date has explored the dissolution of known transitional foods in adults. This study aimed to understand the extent of dissolution of five transitional snacks items in relationship to time, tongue pressure, and amount of saliva.

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transitional foods labeled on tray

 

The impact of social mimicry on drinking behaviors in older, healthy adults

Individuals with dysphagia, particularly in the presence of dementia, are at high risk for decreased nutrition and hydration. Unfortunately, current treatment options are not without limitations and often ignore the crucial social aspects of mealtimes. The aim of this exploratory, proof-of-concept study was to examine whether the social phenomenon of nonconscious behavioral mimicry can increase drinking behaviors in healthy older adults.

Link to full article can be found: here

Exploring an obesity prevention intervention program for Latinx immigrant families

An obesity preventive intervention program for preschool families, Healthy Balance, was tested in 2 sequential pilot trials. The first pilot tested the original and translated group intervention in a heterogeneous population (65 families), and the second tested the feasibility of a culturally adapted version for Latinx immigrant families (27 families). No significant study 1 intervention effects were found. However, in study 2, there were significant improvements in parent body mass index, neck circumference, and blood pressure. These studies suggest that targeting family system change and tailoring the intervention for Latinx immigrant populations is feasible and has the potential to improve obesity-related biomarkers.

Link to full article found: here

latinx family in field smiling