Woman with short brown hair wearing a black blazer over a blue shirt and a gold leaf necklace.
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365 Bridgeside Point I 100 Technology Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Biography

Juleen Rodakowski is an occupational therapist with expertise in community living for vulnerable adults and their caregivers. Her federally funded research seeks to slow the progression of disability attributed to early changes in cognition and caregiving. Rodakowski’s studies influence when, how and why rehabilitation services are being provided to individuals living in the community. Her work generates the evidence required to support new, effective models of community-focused care, that are responsive to public health needs and evolving federal policies. Rodakowski is arming the geriatric and rehabilitation disciplines with evidence, methods and applications that place best practices in rehabilitation at the forefront of health care.  

Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, University of Pittsburgh 
  • Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago 
  • Doctor of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago 
  • Master of Science in Clinical Research, University of Pittsburgh 
Awards
  • Mid-Career Research Excellence Award, American Occupational Therapy Foundation 
  • Service Commendation for Being an American Occupational Therapy Association Advocate on Rehabilitation Research 
  • Alumni Award of Excellence, University of Minnesota, College of Education and Human Development Alumni Society   
Research Interests
  • Characterization of disability in vulnerable older adults 
  • Design and testing of interventions to support activities and participation in late life 
  • Examination of strategies to include family caregivers in clinical care and services 
Publications
  • Rodakowski J, Dorris J, Stahl S. Depressive Symptoms Associated with Social Participation in Older Adults Living With Mild Cognitive Impairment.”
  • Rodakowski J, Mroz TM, Ciro C, Lysack CL, Womack JL, Chippendale T, Cutchin M, Fritz H, Fields B, Niemiec SL, Orellano-Colón EM, Rotenberg S, Toto PE, Lee D, Jewell VD, McDonald MV, Arthanat S, Somerville E, Park M, Piersol CV. “Stimulating Research to Enhance Aging in Place.”   
Professional Organization Appointments
  • Fellow, American Occupational Therapy Association 
  • Fellow, Gerontological Society of America