Course Description:

Older Adults have always wanted to remain in their home as long as possible. A recent trend in health care and funding focusing on home care rather than admission to a nursing facility makes this possible more than ever before. Home Care Nurses, Occupational and Physical Therapists, and other Home Care Providers will be increasingly asked to be involved in the care of these persons and assist with living situation decisions. This presentation will discuss important aspects of helping older adults stay in their home: cognition, home safety, screening, preventive interventions and resources. The participant will develop an understanding of the relationship between balance, cognition, aging, and the risk for falls. Selection of appropriate interdisciplinary assessment tools to screen for cognitive risk factors will be discussed. Intervention models to guide reduction of fall risks and safety related issues in the environment will be discussed. The impact of physical changes, fear of falling, and cognitive decline will be presented. At the completion of this educational session the participant will be able to select appropriate intervention approaches to address cognitive risk factors, reduce falls, assist the primary caregiver and enhance safe and independent community living.