Strengthening the Geriatric Patient for Function – Michelle Green

Geriatric patients are training for one reason: function. Seated bicep curls will not improve ADL function and LAQ from a wheelchair will not improve walking. This course will provide therapists with the ability to progress our geriatric patients from muscular endurance in single plane motions to integrated strength and power training in multi-planar activities. Strategies to create exercises based on specific functional deficits will be developed through lecture, discussion, pictures, and video examples. Lastly, clinicians will take away practical tips on how to educate and incorporate the patient’s family in therapy for continued cognitive success long after discharge from formal cognitive rehabilitation.

1. Perform functional task analysis of basic activities such as sit-stand
2. Identify research supporting safety in high intensity exercise for geriatric patients
3. Create progressive therapy exercise programs for geriatric patients with attention to specific impairments limiting function

FUNCTIONAL TASK ANALYSIS

• Initiation of task
• Proximal control requirements
• Muscle recruitment

SIT-STAND

• Point of initiation
• ROM/Strength requirements

CAN GERIATRIC PATIENTS USE HIGH INTENSITY PROGRAMS

• Studies showing support for high intensity
• Outcomes of high intensity programs

IDENTIFYING IMPAIRMENTS LIMITING FUNCTION

• Do they have needed alignment, activation
• Which muscles, movement patterns need attention

CREATING PROGRAM TO IMPROVE SPECIFIC

FUNCTIONAL TASKS

• Sit- stand
• Climbing steps
• Dressing/bathing