Geriatric Rehabilitation

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CGA & Principles - Rehab Foundations

  • CGA (Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment): A holistic, multidimensional, interdisciplinary diagnostic process. Evaluates medical, functional (ADLs, IADLs, mobility, falls), psychosocial (cognition, mood, social support, environment) status in frail older adults to formulate a coordinated, integrated care plan.
  • Rehab Foundations & Goals:
    • Maximize functional independence & QoL.
    • Patient-centered goal setting.
    • Prevent complications (e.g., deconditioning, delirium).
    • Promote safe community reintegration.
  • Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) essential: Geriatrician, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Nurse, Social Worker, Dietitian, Speech Therapist.
  • CGA Process Overview:

⭐ Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is proven to improve outcomes like survival and functional ability in hospitalized older adults.

Interdisciplinary Team in Geriatric Rehabilitation

Key Conditions - Targeted Rehab

FeatureStroke RehabHip Fracture Rehab
Key GoalsMaximize functional independence, neuroplasticityRestore mobility, pain control, safe ambulation
Early MobilizationWithin 24-48 hrs; NIHSS guides intensityWithin 24 hrs post-op, as tolerated
Weight-BearingProgressive, as motor recovery allowsProtocol-driven (e.g., WBAT, PWB), fracture type dependent
Specific TherapiesTask-specific training, SLT, OTPT (gait, balance), OT (ADLs)
Complication WatchSpasticity, contractures, depression, aspirationDVT, infection, delirium, pressure sores, non-union

Geriatric Giants - Syndrome Strategies

  • Core Syndromes: Immobility, Instability (Falls), Incontinence, Intellectual Impairment (Delirium/Dementia), Iatrogenesis.
  • Falls (Instability):
    • Assessment: Gait/balance (TUG >12s ↑risk), Morse Fall Scale.
    • Risk Factors: 📌 FALLS RISK (polypharmacy, weakness, prior fall).
    • Intervention: Multifactorial - exercise, medication review, environment mod.
  • Delirium:
    • Acute confusion, fluctuating. Screen: CAM (Confusion Assessment Method).
    • Causes: 📌 I WATCH DEATH (infection, drugs, metabolic).
    • Management: Treat cause, reorient, hydration, avoid restraints.
  • Incontinence: Identify type (Stress, Urge, Overflow, Functional); targeted therapy (pelvic floor exercises, bladder training).
  • Iatrogenesis: Polypharmacy (≥5 drugs); review with Beers criteria, STOPP/START.

⭐ Multicomponent exercise programs (strength, balance, endurance, flexibility) are most effective in preventing falls and managing frailty.

Rehab Tools & Goals - Smooth Discharge

  • Rehab Tools:
    • Assistive Devices: Enhance safety & functional independence.
      • Mobility aids: Walkers, canes, wheelchairs.
      • ADL aids: Grab bars, raised toilet seats, dressing aids, reachers.
    • Assistive Devices and Home Modifications
  • Goals & Outcome Measures:
    • Aim: Maximize functional independence, improve Quality of Life (QoL).
    • Track progress using standardized scales:
      ScaleFocusScoring (Higher = More Independent)
      Barthel Index10 ADLs (feeding, toilet use, mobility)0-20 (Total Dep.) to 100 (Indep.)
      FIM™ (Functional Independence Measure)18 items (motor & cognitive tasks)18 (Total Dep.) to 126 (Total Indep.)
      Katz ADL6 basic ADLs (bathing, dressing)6 (Full function) to 0 (Severe impairment)
  • Smooth Discharge Planning:
    • Involves: Multidisciplinary team, home environment assessment & modifications.
    • ⭐ Patient and family education on safe transfers, medication management, and use of assistive devices is critical for successful discharge and preventing readmission.

    • Essential: Caregiver training, scheduled follow-ups, community support linkage.

High‑Yield Points - ⚡ Biggest Takeaways

  • Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is foundational for tailored rehabilitation.
  • Aim for maximal functional independence and enhanced Quality of Life (QoL).
  • Prioritize rehabilitation for stroke, hip fractures, and Parkinson's disease.
  • A multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach is crucial for effective care.
  • Early mobilization prevents deconditioning and complications like pressure sores.
  • Manage polypharmacy and cognitive deficits impacting rehabilitation progress.

Practice Questions: Geriatric Rehabilitation

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Flashcards: Geriatric Rehabilitation

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_____ delirium is commonly associated with hepatic and renal encephalopathies.

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_____ delirium is commonly associated with hepatic and renal encephalopathies.

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