Orthotics and Prosthetics: Special Considerations for the Aging Adult

Presented by Tamara N. Gravano

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Video Runtime: 80 minutes, Learning Assessment: 54 minutes

There is a growing demand to address mobility and functional needs in the aging adult population. Aging adults are expected to represent over 20% of all Americans by 2040 and will require healthcare practitioners with the specific knowledge, skills, and training to address the inherent complexities of care. For many aging adults, the ability to engage in daily activities may entail the use of an orthotic or prosthetic.

This course will provide the healthcare practitioner an overview of special considerations for the aging adult who uses orthotics or prosthetics to participate in meaningful activities. A review of the common orthotics and prosthetics available, their benefits, and their use with aging adults will assist clinicians in making the best clinical decisions for their patients.

Meet your instructor

Tamara N. Gravano

Tamara N. Gravano is a board-certified geriatric physical therapy clinical specialist and the DPT program director at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She earned her BHS, MSPT, and transitional DPT from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, and an EdD in leadership studies from Marshall University.…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Review of Age-Related Changes  Relative to the Use of O&P

1. Review of Age-Related Changes Relative to the Use of O&P

In this chapter, learners will recognize the growing need for orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) training and education for aging adults, review the aging systems as they relate to the use of O&P, and correlate the specific age-related changes of the major body systems (cardiovascular, integumentary, musculoskeletal, neurologic) to the use of O&P.

Orthotics Foundations

2. Orthotics Foundations

In this chapter, learners will review the foundations of orthotics terms, uses, and goals and compare the characteristics of orthotics for spinal, UE, and LE conditions.

Prosthetics Foundations

3. Prosthetics Foundations

In this chapter, learners will review the foundations of prosthetics terms, uses, and goals and compare the characteristics of prosthetics for UE and LE needs.

Rehabilitation Approaches for the Aging  Adult: Assessment

4. Rehabilitation Approaches for the Aging Adult: Assessment

In this chapter, learners will analyze valid and reliable clinical examination tools for aging adults with orthotics or prosthetics and apply the available evidence to make informed clinical decisions regarding selecting outcome measures for the aging client.

Rehabilitation Approaches for the Aging Adult:  Plans of Care

5. Rehabilitation Approaches for the Aging Adult: Plans of Care

In this chapter, learners will analyze advanced mobility skills in aging patients with orthotics or prosthetics and compare rehabilitation plan of care options for aging adults with orthotics or prosthetics.