Effective Exercise Dosing to Optimize Recovery and Beyond
Presented by Kathryn Brewer
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This is part one in a two-part series. Regular physical activity and exercise, essential for general health and wellness, is not exclusive of older adults. Underdosing exercise for geriatric patients/clients may jeopardize quality of life, functional capacity and independence, leaving vulnerable older adults at risk for falls, frailty and progression of chronic conditions. In a healthcare environment with care limits and disparities, excessively conservative interventions waste valuable resources and result in suboptimal outcomes. There is no excuse for complacency or ageism bias to compromise the quality and effectiveness of physical therapy interventions. This course will provide evidence-based guidelines for exercise prescription, designed to optimize rehabilitation and address lifestyle physical activity. At the conclusion of an episode of skilled therapy services, our patients should be better prepared for health maintenance through customized exercise prescription and education to support their specific conditions and activity participation.
Meet your instructor
Kathryn Brewer
Dr. Brewer graduated with her degree in physical therapy from The Ohio State University and received her Master of Education degree from the University of Cincinnati. Her doctorate degree is from Temple University. She has been certified as a geriatric specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists since…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. The Case for Physical Activity
Older adults benefit from regular physical activity to enhance mobility, safety, independence and quality of life as well as reduce risks for chronic conditions and all-cause mortality. Yet, only 16% of older adults meet national guidelines for participation in physical activity. This chapter explores the barriers which our geriatric patients face and the risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle compounding aging factors. Potential improvements in these same health factors are summarized.
2. Beginning with Objective Measures and the ICF Framework
Use of functional assessment tools provides objective baseline data for performance, assists in development of the plan of care and directs discharge readiness. It is imperative for therapists to utilize evidence-based assessment procedures, combined with fundamental science in clinical decision making for exercise prescription. The International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) framework provides the basis for choice and application of these tools and principles. This chapter provides a brief overview of the integration of these elements.
