Episode 1823 - 5 things I've changed my mind about in geriatric practice
Oct 2, 2024
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Dr. Christina Prevett, a leader in the Modern Management of the Older Adult Division, discusses her evolving views on geriatric care. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and continuous learning in healthcare, debunking the myth that experience equates to outdated practice. Christina highlights five significant shifts in elder care, including the need for pelvic health screenings and the emotional facets of rehabilitation. She encourages clinicians to keep an open mind to better serve the older population, regardless of their years in the field.
The approach to rehabilitation has evolved to integrate dual tasking earlier, enhancing clients' confidence and reducing fall risk.
Recognizing the emotional aspects of recovery allows therapists to improve client engagement and foster a stronger therapeutic alliance.
Deep dives
Prioritizing Dual Tasking in Balance Training
The approach to balance training in rehabilitation has shifted significantly, emphasizing the importance of integrating dual tasking earlier in the intervention process. Previously, there was a belief that static balance skills needed to be mastered before introducing dual tasking; however, this perspective has evolved. Current understanding recognizes that individuals often struggle with dual tasking long before they have issues with static balance. By layering in dual tasking from the beginning, clinicians can enhance clients' confidence and overall capacity to navigate their environments, thereby reducing the risk of falls.
Acknowledging the Emotional Aspects of Rehabilitation
There is a growing recognition of the critical role emotions play in the rehabilitation process that extends beyond mere physical recovery. Early on, many clinicians underestimated how personal experiences, fears, and emotional challenges intersect with physical ailments. By acknowledging this emotional dimension, therapists can significantly improve their therapeutic alliances with clients, fostering an environment where emotional experiences can be shared. This approach supports better engagement and trust, making it easier for clients to discuss their challenges openly and enhancing their overall treatment experience.
Rethinking the Use of Special Tests in Geriatric Practice
The reliance on special tests in assessments for older adults has been reconsidered due to their limited validation in this population. Many traditional tests are not applicable or helpful for individuals over 65, often resulting in unnecessary discomfort without guiding effective treatment. Instead, there has been a shift toward focusing on functional movement patterns and symptomatic evaluation, allowing clinicians to prioritize pain provocation and address specific geriatric concerns. This change promotes a more patient-centered approach that emphasizes improving functional outcomes rather than solely relying on biomechanical assessments.
In today's episode of the PT on ICE Daily Show, join Modern Management of the Older Adult Division Leader Christina Prevett as she dives into the theme of reflection, particularly in the context of career development and ageism in the healthcare field. Christina discusses the importance of acknowledging the value of continuous learning, regardless of a clinician's years of experience. She challenges the notion that being "old school" is simply a function of age, emphasizing that stagnation in professional growth, rather than longevity in practice, is what truly defines outdated approaches.
We all get firmer in our beliefs with more experience but it’s important to keep an open mind, continue to learn, shape and evolve your practice.
Take a listen to learn how to better serve this population of patients & athletes, or check out the full show notes on our blog at www.ptonice.com/blog.