Physiotherapy for the Elderly, Theory (9 cr)

Objectives (course unit)

Students
- know the factors having an impact on an elderly person’s aging and life span
- know the essential changes in an elderly person’s functional ability (for instance balance and ability to walk)
- can test in reliably the mobility, functionality and independent coping of the elderly
- can apply theory in choosing the physiotherapeutic exercises and rehabilitation

Content (course unit)

- meters and ways to measure movement and functional ability
- analysis of movement, functional ability and independent functioning
- evidence based physiotherapy in choosing exercises
- motivation for movement and functioning
- the chances in functional ability caused by aging
- assessing and prevention of falling risks

Prerequisites (course unit)

Participation in the course requires participation in previous study units.

Assessment criteria, pass/fail (course unit)

Evaluation criteria, pass/fail:

A passed mark is the result when the student:
- is able to identify and define the most common diseases of the elderly and the key changes in performance brought by aging
- is able to identify, define and structure age-related changes in bodily functions and tissues
- is able to use and apply different ways of working to increase physical activity of the elderly
- actively participates in lessons
- is able to act in a responsibly and take other group members into account

A failed mark is the result when the student:
- does not know the factors related to aging of the population
- doe not know about changes in bodily functions and tissues that come with aging
- does not know the importance of exercise, nutrition, and stimulants for the well-being of an elderly person
and the ability to function
- does not know the most common diseases of the elderly
- withdraws, selects or neglects given tasks and training during lessons
- does not complete or hands in inadequate assignments

Assessment scale

0-5