title: The role of the physical therapist in the care of the older adult.
abstract: Physical therapists play an important role in the care of older adults who have physical disabilities. Proper patient selection, a thorough medical, social, and functional history, and a physical examination emphasizing the neuromusculoskeletal system are the cornerstones of the evaluation process. Treatment is individualized and goal driven, with appropriate precautions being followed. Gait training is an integral part of the treatment process for many older adults with disabilities, and various assistive devices may be used to ensure safe mobility.
authors.affiliation: Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Room 3D-16, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY 10468, USA. shana.richards@med.va.gov
authors.forename: Shana
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Richards
authors.forename: Adrian
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Cristian
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D018802:Patient-Centered Care / Q000379:methods; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D024382:Professional Role; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology