PTA COURSE

This 2-day course will focus on the Physical Therapist Assistant’s (PTA) use of exercise as an advanced rehabilitation intervention for the aging adult. Several common functional outcome measures will be actively performed by participants or demonstrated by instructors.

The physical stress theory regarding proper exercise intensity will be presented. PTA’s will learn how to utilize this concept in exercise programs for aging adults, as indicated by the physical therapy (PT) plan of care (POC), for aerobic conditioning, balance, gait and strength training.

A variety of diagnoses commonly treated in aging adults will be reviewed and discussed relative to the application of exercise principles, treatment progression, and precautions. A discussion of barriers and motivation strategies to assist the aging adult in achieving goals will be included. The course will include both lecture and hands-on practical lab activities.

Maximum number of participants is 60.

COURSE DATES & LOCATIONS

More information to come on specific locations and dates. Check back often for finalized dates and registration as these courses fill up FAST!

Two instructors for each course:

  • Laurel Daniels Abbruzzese, PT, EdD
  • Brad Abrams, PT, DPT
  • Richard Bohannon, PT, PhD
  • Kathy Brewer, PT
  • Linda Eargle, PT, DPT
  • Tamara N. Gravano, PT, EdD, DPT
  • Jill Heitzman, PT, DPT, PhD
  • Larry Hochreiter, PT
  • Lucy Jones, PT, DPT, MHA
  • Kenneth L Miller, PT, DPT
  • Myla Quiben, DPT, PhD
  • Robin Schroeder, PT, DPT
  • William H. Staples, PT, DPT, DHSc, FAPTA
  • Sue Wenker, PT, PhD
 

OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

  1. Discuss the impact of issues related to the aging population on the physical therapy plan of care.
  2. Discuss the importance and benefits of exercise and physical activity for the aging adult.
  3. Administer and accurately record the results of a variety of single and multi-dimensional functional outcome tests and measures that include aerobic, balance, gait, strength, range-of-motion, anthropometric and self-reported measures.
  4. Utilize the physical stress theory when performing and modifying prescribed exercise programs for aging adults
  5. Identify barriers to the aging adult performing the exercise program and behavioral strategies to overcome these barriers.
  6. Safely progress an exercise program within the physical therapy plan of care for aerobic conditioning, balance, gait, flexibility and strength training.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge of community complementary programs that can assist in achieving the desired outcomes.