Geriatric Therapy- Module 6: Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Plan of Care- Part 2

Course Description:

This course is derived from the textbook by Andrew A. Guccione, PT, PhD, DPT, FAPTA, Rita A. Wong, PT, EdD, and Dale Avers, PT, DPT, PhD.  Geriatric Physical Therapy offers a comprehensive presentation of geriatric physical therapy science and practice. Thoroughly revised and updated editors Andrew Guccione, Rita Wong, and Dale Avers and their contributors provide current information on aging-related changes in function, the impact of these changes on patient examination and evaluation, and intervention approaches that maximize optimal aging. Chapters emphasize evidence-based content that clinicians can use throughout the patient management process.

Module 6: Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Plan of Care- Part 2 covers chapters 16 through 18. 

• Chapter 16: Impaired Posture
• Chapter 17: Ambulation: Impact of Age-Related Changes on Functional Mobility
• Chapter 18: Balance and Falls 

Methods of Instruction:

Online course available via internet

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, and Occupational Therapist Assistants

Educational Level:

Intermediate

Prerequisites:

None

Course Goals and Objectives:

At the completion of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Identify normal posture in an older adult
2. Identify deviations from optimal posture
3. Recognize the role of posture in common spinal conditions
4. Recognize physical therapy management of the patient with posture dysfunction
5. List ways how to change faulty posture
6. Differentiate between normal gait and pathologic gait in an older adult
7. Identify functional ambulation requirements
8. Recognize a thorough examination and evaluation of gait in an older adult
9. Identify the seriousness of falling  in the older adult
10. Identify fall risk factors
11. Recognize balance and postural control in the older adult
12. Recognize a thorough systems review and identify tests and measures related to balance and falls
13. Identify appropriate interventions to combat balance issues

Criteria for Obtaining Continuing Education Credits:

A score of 70% or greater on the post-test