Geriatric Special Topics: Assessment of Physical Function- 3HR

Course overview

Physical functioning is a dynamic process of interaction between individuals and their environments. The process is influenced by motivation, physical capacity, illness, cognitive ability, pain, and the external environment, including social supports. Management of these day-to-day activities (e.g., eating, bathing, ambulating, managing money) serves as the foundation for safe, independent functioning of all adults. Functional assessment instruments provide a common language of health for patients, family members, and health care providers across settings, especially for care of older adults. These assessments also serve as important parameters for goal setting and interprofessional collaboration. On completion of this chapter, the reader should be able to: 1. Explain the factors that contribute to functional decline in the older adult. 2. Identify unique challenges to gathering information from older adults regarding functional assessments. 3. Describe common components of standardized functional assessment instruments for acute care. 4. Discuss the assessment process of physical function in the older adult. 5. Describe common nursing care interventions to promote, maintain, and restore functional health in older adults in acute care settings.