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the BLUEWATER
mission
Following my mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and the journey we are on with her over the past few years, I have decided to re-orient the Bluewater mission to help address the growing crisis of dementia care needs.
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I am now a Certified Dementia Practitioner since 2022 and continue to expand my skills and training in this specialty.
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I know first-hand the stress and struggle of dealing with dementia as a caregiver, family-member and child, as well as the importance of maintaining the perspective and dignity of the patient on their own journey with dementia.
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As the incidence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias only rises in our aging population, I feel strongly that as an OT with experience and specialization in dementia, I need to offer my skills and knowledge to do what I can to help others on this journey as well.
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What is occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy (OT) is the science of healing by occupation.
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The field of OT was born in the psychiatric clinics at Johns Hopkins and Sheppard Pratt in an effort to "provide opportunities instead of prescriptions." The use of occupational therapists as reconstruction aides blossomed during the aftermath of the first World War to help deal with what was then known as "shell shock" in both returning soldiers and soldiers overseas. By WWII, OTs were standard in military hospitals and treated both physical and psychiatric conditions through the use of occupation.
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Today, OTs continue to be trained to deal with physical, psychological and social aspects of injury and illness, and to take a holistic view of a person. This includes the study of sensation and perception known as Sensory Integration.
Sensory Integration
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Sensation and perception are how are our brains interpret both the external environment as well as our internal states. They influence every activity we undertake. Our sensory organs (eyes, ears, skin) continuously provide raw data to the brain, whose job is to interpret that data so we can make decisions and act accordingly.
In dementia, as the brain's ability to interpret and process the outside world decreases, we may often see what appear as inexplicable "behaviors." Sensory integration teaches us that ALL behavior has purpose, and that often using sensory modalities and strategies we are able to address behaviors and facilitate a more calm, productive, and comfortable state of being.
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about us
Annie Slye, MS, OTR/L, CDP
Annie has been an occupational therapist (OT) for over 13 years, with a focus on neuro-rehabilitation, sensory integration, and adjustment to injury and disability. She received her Bachelor's in Psychology in 2008 with a minor in neuroscience, followed by her Masters in Occupational Therapy in 2010. Prior to becoming an OT, she worked for over five years helping develop and run psychiatric rehabilitation and autism waiver programs.
Following her mother's diagnosis with Alzheimer's disease in 2020, Annie has shifted focus to pursuing extensive training and certifications in dementia care. She has over 10 years experience working with patients and families in their home settings.
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Annie is also a diehard sailor, scuba enthusiast, and occasional diesel mechanic who thrives on all things water.
OUR SERVICES
Discovery sessions
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consultation & EDUCATION
Reach out via email or phone to learn more about consultation or educational services.
