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Rehabilitation of geriatric patients
D C Weber1, K C Fleming, J M Evans
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
Objective:
To describe the role of geriatric rehabilitation, the methods of practice, and the mechanisms underlying integrated care in rehabilitation medicine.
Design:
We reviewed the rehabilitation-related medical literature and outlined an approach to the evaluation of impairment in older patients and subsequent rehabilitation planning.
Results:
For optimal rehabilitation of geriatric patients, knowledge of general principles of rehabilitation and key areas affecting the elderly population is important. A rehabilitation program will be most successful if a team approach--including a physician, rehabilitation nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, medical social worker, and recreational therapist--is used. Attention should be paid to special considerations in older patients (such as the presence of comorbid conditions) and potential barriers to care in order to maximize benefit.
Conclusion:
Rehabilitation of elderly patients can assist in preserving functional independence and improving the quality of life. Assessment and management in an individual patient are best performed by a team approach.