Geriatric Care Balance Training and Fall Prevention

Geriatric Care Course Aims to

This course describes the physiological aspects of balance and how the aging process affects balance. Risk factors for falls in the aging population are discussed. The normal components of balance are identified, and a description of how the aging process alters these components over time is discussed. The instructor presents evidence-based, reliable methods of balance examinations. Interventions including exercise and functional activities to promote balance and reduce falls are described. A discussion of current evidence indicates the effectiveness of the interventions presented, with recommendations for program design to achieve functional outcomes with balance rehabilitation.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the physiological components of balance
2. Describe balance strategies used to correct the deviation of the center of gravity from the base of support. 
3. Describe evidence-based balance tests to determine falls risk in elderly persons. 
4. Design interventions to reduce the risk of falls in elderly populations based on current evidence. 

Who Should Enroll

• Physiotherapist
• Geriatric Care giver
• Nurses
• Occupational Therapist
• ICU Allied Health Worker

Course Agenda:

1. BALANCE DEFINITIONS, SYSTEMS, AND STRATEGIES (15 mins)
2. EPIDEMIOLOGY AND RISK FACTORS FOR FALLS (25 mins)
3. THE AGING PROCESS:
4. NEUROMUSCULAR AND MEDICAL CHALLENGES OF AGING (25 mins)
5. RISK FACTORS IN AGING, MEDICATIONS, MEDICAL CONDITIONS, DEGENERATIVE PROCESSES (25 mins)
6. BALANCE EXAMINATION TOOLS DISCUSSION (20 mins)
7. RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF BALANCE EXAM TOOLS (20 mins)
8. INTERVENTIONS TO PROMOTE BALANCE AND REDUCE FALLS: DISCUSSION (35 mins)
9. Q&A (15 mins)

CPD Credit Hours

3 Hours

Resources

• 1-Month Access to Learning Resources
• Downloadable Course Material 
• CPD Certificate

Presenter

Speaker Bio: 

Theresa A. Schmidt, DPT,MS,OCS,LMT,CEAS,CHy.,DD is the founder of Educise Resources Inc, a professional continuing education and health enhancement company. Dr. Schmidt is the president of Flex Physical Therapy in Long Island, NY. She is Board-certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy by ABPTS since 1994. Dr. Schmidt graduated Long Island University’s Masters Program in Physical Therapy with Highest Honors. She served as Chair of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program and faculty of the Masters Program at Touro College Physical Therapy Programs in New York, NY, at Nassau Community College and CUNY Queens College. She completed extensive studies in Orthopedic manual therapies including Myofascial Release, Craniosacral Therapy, Muscle Energy, Counterstrain, Joint Mobilization, high velocity thrust, visceral manipulation, Functional Technique, acupressure Amma therapy, and therapeutic touch. Theresa is a Certified Hypnotherapist,and a certified personal trainer. She has presented internationally for APTA, AOTA/IA AMTA/NY, IDEA, ACE,  New York College for Wholistic Health Education and Research, Council of Licensed Physiotherapists, Cross Country Education, MotivationsCEU, HomeCEUconnection, Allied Health Education and private hospitals and clinics.  Theresa is a graduate of the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at University of New England.