As the US population continues to age, physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) will take on an even more transformative role in the health of society. Are you ready?
The 2019 APTA Combined Sections Meeting, set for January 23-26 in downtown Washington, DC, can help keep you on top of some of the latest issues in healthy aging. Check out these suggestions, and find other relevant programming by searching the CSM programming page.
Geriatric Low Back Pain: Managing Influences, Experiences, and Consequences
This session focuses on the biological, psychological, cognitive, and social influences of geriatric low back pain (LBP), and presents a comprehensive model of geriatric LBP that accounts for the interface between pain and impaired movement, as well mobility and health risks associated with geriatric LBP. Find out about age-appropriate measurement tools and interventions for geriatric LBP and learn how to implement a comprehensive, standardized management approach that optimizes recovery and mitigates health risks associated with geriatric LBP. Friday, January 25, 8:00 am–10:00 am.
Staying Fit Beyond Menopause Through Early Screening and Training
Menopause is a wake-up call for lifestyle changes that many women don't want to think about until they experience symptoms. Unfortunately, they miss their best window of opportunity to modify risk factors in the years prior to and immediately following menopause. Making specific lifestyle changes can build and maintain body strength before, during, and after the menopause transition, enhancing a woman's health long term. This session delivers what you need to know about hormonal influences impacting women's health at menopause, the use of an appropriate screening tool, and clinical applications to physical therapy. Saturday, January 26, 11:00 am–1:00 pm.
The Skin and Aging: Impact on Wound Prevention and Management
Wound care for individuals who are aging comes with a price tag of more than $25 billion, an amount certain to increase as the aging population continues to grow. This session will cover histologic changes that occur as people age, and the pathological consequences arising from impaired angiogenesis, degeneration of the extracellular matrix, thinning of the subcutaneous adipose tissue, decreased immune response, and photoaging. Get the latest on guidelines for comprehensive screening and risk assessment, and review case studies that highlight evidence-based interventions to maintain and restore skin integrity through a comprehensive, patient-centered plan of care. Thursday, January 24, 8:00 am–10:00 am.