Functional Assessment of the Older Adult, 2nd Edition

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About the Course:
Adults age 65 and older represent the fastest growing population both in the United States and in the world. Physical therapy practitioners and other rehabilitation providers play a pivotal role in maximizing function, participation, and well-being for older adults. This intermediate-level course will enable physical therapy practitioners to understand and assess functional performance in older adults using a multidimensional approach. Client factors (including physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors) and their impact on performance skills will be reviewed. 

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify current demographics and health trends among adults age 65 and older.
  • Define health and function of older adults using the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model and Schwartz’s “slippery slope” continuum.
  • Based on the ICF model, describe age-related changes in body structure and function, activity, and participation, along with appropriate assessment tools.
  • Based on the ICF model, describe age-related changes in personal and environmental factors, along with appropriate assessment tools.
  • Identify additional factors that may affect the functional assessment of older adults.

About the Author:
Veronica Southard, PT, DHSc, GCS, CEEAA,
is a full-time associate professor in the physical therapy program at the New York Institute of Technology, where she teaches geriatrics, modalities, neurorehabilitation, orthopedics, and ADL/rehabilitation. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from Hunter College in 1979 and an advanced master’s degree in physical therapy from Long Island University in 1986. In 2000, she was board-certified in geriatrics by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. In addition, she earned a doctorate in health sciences from the University of St. Augustine in 2004. She received certification as an exercise expert for aging adults in 2010 through the APTA Section on Geriatrics. Dr. Southard has practiced in nursing homes, rehabilitation, acute care, outpatient services, and pediatrics. She currently practices in home health. She is interested in vestibular rehabilitation and has published on topics pertaining to older adults with impairments in balance, falls, congestive heart failure, and Parkinson’s disease. Her research also examines outcomes assessment tools and the effects of exercise on balance.

How to Receive Credit:
  • Read the entire course online or in print which requires a 4-hour commitment of time.
  • Depending on your state requirements you will be asked to complete:
  • An affirmation that you have completed the educational activity.
  • A mandatory test (a passing score of 75 percent is required). Test questions link content to learning objectives as a method to enhance individualized learning and material retention.
  • Provide required personal information and payment information.
  • Complete the mandatory Self-Assessment and Course Evaluation.
  • Print your Certificate of Completion.


Disclosures

Resolution of Conflict of Interest
Colibri Healthcare, LLC implemented mechanisms prior to the planning and implementation of the continuing education activity, to identify and resolve conflicts of interest for all individuals in a position to control content of the course activity.

Sponsorship/Commercial Support and Non-Endorsement
It is the policy of Colibri Healthcare, LLC not to accept commercial support. Furthermore, commercial interests are prohibited from distributing or providing access to this activity to learners.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent medical judgment of a healthcare provider relative to diagnostic and treatment options of a specific patient’s medical condition.

©2019: All Rights Reserved. Materials may not be reproduced without the expressed written permission or consent of Colibri Healthcare, LLC. The materials presented in this course are meant to provide the consumer with general information on the topics covered. The information provided was prepared by professionals with practical knowledge of the areas covered. It is not meant to provide medical, legal, or professional advice. Colibri Healthcare, LLC recommends that you consult a medical, legal, or professional services expert licensed in your state. Colibri Healthcare, LLC has made all reasonable efforts to ensure that all content provided in this course is accurate and up to date at the time of printing, but does not represent or warrant that it will apply to your situation nor circumstances and assumes no liability from reliance on these materials. Quotes are collected from customer feedback surveys. The models are intended to be representative and not actual customers.