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Connections Between Parafunctions and HRV: A Research Proposal

Adult Airway and Sleep Disorders

Presented by: Licia C. Paskay, MS, CCC-SLP

Original Presentation Date: September 24, 2021

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Course Description:

"Connections Between Parafunctions and HRV: A Research Proposal" explores the persistent presence of parafunctions in individuals, even after extensive behavioral therapy, suggesting a potential link to the body's homeostasis mechanisms. This session proposes an investigative research framework for universities to examine the connection between parafunctions and heart rate variability (HRV). By delving into the significance of HRV in health, understanding parafunctions as potential contributors to homeostasis, and outlining a pilot study design, this lecture seeks to provide insights into the management of parafunctions upon identifying their underlying causes.

Learning Objectives:

  • Recognize and elucidate the importance of heart rate variability (HRV) as an indicator of health and illness, discerning its significance in assessing physiological balance.
  • Review the concept of parafunctions and their potential role in maintaining the body's homeostatic equilibrium, identifying certain parafunctions as possibly essential mechanisms for maintaining vital functions.
  • Introduce the development of a pilot study aimed at investigating potential changes in HRV in response to parafunctions, outlining a research framework to validate or refute the relationship between these behaviors and physiological homeostasis.

Speaker Bio:

Licia Coceani Paskay, MS CCC-SLP, is a licensed Speech Language Pathologist with extensive expertise in treating swallowing, cognitive, and orofacial myofunctional disorders across all age groups. She is an instructor at the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (AOMT), teaching introductory and advanced courses nationwide. With over two decades of experience, she works at UCLA's Marilyn Hilton Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center (MSAC), providing cognitive stimulation and educational classes while also facilitating cognitive programs at OPICA adult daycare center in Los Angeles for individuals with varying functional levels, including early memory loss. Currently, she holds the position of president at the Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences (AAMS).