The goal of this course is to provide physical and occupational therapists with the skills required to manage orthopedic conditions within the older adult population across a variety of settings and populations. This course will include an overview of the aging musculoskeletal system, proper evaluation of common orthopedic conditions, appropriate dosing of therapy interventions, discharge planning, and provide a framework for evidence-informed management for these conditions to optimize outcomes for management of the older adult patient. This is an on-site course with some online hours as well.

Course Objectives/Outcomes

By the end of the course, a successful learner will be able to:

• Examine the implications of physiological and pathological aging on the musculoskeletal system in older adults in across practice settings
• Complete an evaluation for an older adult patient with musculoskeletal impairments to address the patient’s movement system impairments
• Apply best, evidence-informed practices to examination, evaluation, and intervention for different orthopedic pathologies and conditions to promote enhanced therapy outcomes
• Examine the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and communication when managing patients with orthopedic conditions to promote best rehabilitation outcomes
• Explore the role of physical and occupational therapy professionals in the prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system
• Discuss evidence for the management of persons with musculoskeletal disorders

This course can be applied to the following certifications for course and tuition credit:

• Foundational Geriatric Certification

• Advanced Geriatric Certification

Evidence in Motion is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. PD activity approval ID #6833. This live activity is offered at 23.3 Contact hours/2.33 CEUs Intermediate, OT Service Delivery/Foundational Knowledge. AOTA does not endorse specific course content, products, or clinical procedures.