Understanding and Applying Evidence in Exercise Prescription

Presented by Kathryn Brewer

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Video Runtime: 105 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 56 Minutes

This is part two 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…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Strength and Muscle Performance

1. Strength and Muscle Performance

In this chapter, recommendations for muscle performance training are discussed with specific attention to strength, power, and endurance interventions and outcomes.

Flexibility

2. Flexibility

In this chapter, recommendations for muscle performance training are discussed, with specific attention to flexibility.

Aerobic Conditioning and Endurance

3. Aerobic Conditioning and Endurance

Patients with cardiovascular compromise have systemic limitations for function and activity as well as increased risk for additional health conditions. Aerobic performance is an essential component to address within a comprehensive plan of care.

Balance, Coordination, and Agility

4. Balance, Coordination, and Agility

Balance and coordination are essential for safety in mobility and gait for older adults to maintain optimal function with minimal risk for falls. This chapter will discuss evidence-based strategies for an effective plan of care and sustainability for quality of life and wellness.

Final Thoughts

5. Final Thoughts

Final thoughts about designing exercise programs to meet the needs of function and participation for older adults will be presented, as well as addressing rehabilitation needs and looking beyond to improving physical activity and quality of life. Case study example(s) will be discussed.