Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Polypharmacy And Physical Therapy In The Geriatric Population, Cathy A. Reuer

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Physical therapists are seeing more and more elderly individuals with acute, chronic, or multiple disease conditions. Many of these conditions are treated with medications. It is common for the geriatric patient to be taking multiple medications. Polypharmacy is a relevant concern for physical therapists as adverse effects are often revealed in the musculoskeletal and central nervous systems. These manifestations can cause adverse effects in evaluation, treatment, and outcomes.

The purpose of this study is to discuss the common non-prescription and prescription medications consumed by the elderly, describe the biologic and physiologic changes that occur with age and how these changes …

Balance Exercise For Fall Prevention In The Elderly, Lorrina Mcclellan

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Falls are a very common and serious problem in the elderly population. Individuals who fall may suffer from physical trauma, psychological problems, and possible death. In the past, falls were thought to be an unavoidable occurrence that accompanied aging. Research has .recently identified risk factors that may predict those who are at risk for falling. By recognizing and then modifying these risk factors, potential falls may be prevented. Examples of risk factors that occur with aging include visual impairments, vestibular decline, deterioration of muscle strength, decrease in joint flexibility, and the loss of sensation. Natural biological declines may have profound …

Physical Therapy Interventions For Falls In The Elderly, Melanie Benson

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

The elderly in America represent a population that is continually growing. As part of the aging process, various changes occur that contribute to falls. Therefore, as the number of elderly people in America increases, the possibility of falls in the elderly also increases.

The consequences of falls in the elderly are significant. Some of the more serious consequences include functional decline, increased medical cost, and death. Therefore, the scope of the problem is clear; strategies to prevent falls and treat those who have fallen are indicated.

The purpose of this independent study is to review the literature pertaining to falls …