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Physiotherapy for the Elderly: A Practical Approach

Physiotherapy for the Elderly: A Practical Approach - Primephysio

Course content

  • The aging process

  • Physiological changes affecting body systems

  • First session with an elderly individual

  • Valuable skills of a physiotherapist

  • Evaluation breakdown

  • Documentation and red flags

  • Common tests and quick testing

  • Exercise prescription

  • Strategy use for common conditions

  • Case scenarios of various complexities

Learning  Objectives

  1. Understand Physiological Changes: Recognize how aging affects the musculoskeletal system of the Elderly.

  2. Develop Essential Skills: Apply effective strategies for Elderly patient care.

  3. Assess and Adapt Treatment: Use efficient tests, modify programs, and ensure safe use of assistive devices for the Elderly.

  4. Enhance Decision-Making: Think critically, collaborate with medical teams, and handle complex cases.

  5. Identify Red Flags: Detect signs requiring intervention or session cessation.

Prerequisites

  • Foundational knowledge of human surface anatomy.
  • Undergraduate students must finish orthopaedic (musculoskeletal) round before attending the course.
  • Must be a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Course Requirements

  • Collaborative Learning—Discuss elderly case scenarios and share management strategies.

  • Interactive Participation—Encourage questions for clarity and deeper understanding.

Benefits and Applications

This course provides a comprehensive and evidence-informed approach to the integrated management of the Elderly’s various conditions

  • Structured Care Planning: Develop protocols to address an Elderly’s functional needs.

  • Effective Assessment & Adaptation: Use observational skills, quick tests, and documentation to update decisions.

  • Collaboration & Communication: Work with caregivers, physicians, and medical specialists.

  • Trust & Safety: Build strong relationships while identifying and addressing red flags.

How to prepare for this course

  • Attendance of an introductory webinar.

Knowledge

  • Identify Conditions: Recognize and address conditions affecting physiotherapy.

  • Assess & Adapt: Gather insights on senior habits and recommend adjustments.

  • Document Progress: Track observations for progression and modifications.

  • Collaborate & Decide: Work with medical teams to ensure a Senior’s well-being and mobility.

Skills

Throughout the course, students will develop the following skills:

  1. Sharpen Observation & Communication: Enhance assessment and interaction with senior patients.

  2. Apply Critical Thinking: Manage multiple conditions effectively.

  3. Prioritize Treatment: Address the most crucial functional disability first.

  4. Build Strong Relationships: Foster trust with Seniors and caregivers.

  5. Ensure Holistic Care: Balance medical, emotional, and functional needs of the Elderly.

Attitudes

Through this course, students will:

  1. Holistic Approach: Address a Senior’s functional needs globally to reinforce independence.

  2. Physiotherapy’s Key Role: Influence medical decisions to enhance Senior mobility and well-being.

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