Physical Therapy for the Older Adult

Catalog description

The number of Americans 65 years and older is projected to double within the next 40 years which will result in more older adults seeking medical care. The goal of this course is to provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills for optimal physical therapy management of older adults. Students will learn key concepts related to aging, age-related diseases and disorders, multimorbidity, and frailty. Students will also learn about age-related stereotypes, the influence of the physical environment, and caregiver roles. Lastly, students will gain expertise in the measurement of physical performance and falls risk and gain competency in optimizing exercise and physical activity for common post-operative conditions, falls prevention, and overall health and wellness.