Geriatrics
Geriatric Track
APTA Virginia Fall Summit 2025 • South University, Richmond, VA • Oct. 25, 2025
Register for Geriatric TrackApplying a Geriatric 5Ms Framework to Osteoporosis Management
Presenter:
Sandy Conran, PT, MHS
Board-Certified in Geriatric Physical Therapy,
BoneFit Certified
Course Description: Osteoporosis is a multifactorial disease process that impacts bone quality and increases the susceptibility to fragility fractures, the result of which has a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. A multidisciplinary approach to identifying individuals at risk for bone decline or fracture risk can significantly impact primary and secondary fracture prevention. Exercise intervention has shown to have a positive effect on bone response and fall prevention, but we must take account for additional factors which may influence adherence to interventions and have an impact on fracture and fall risk. The Geriatric 5Ms model (What Matters Most, Mind, Mobility, Medications, Multi-complexity) provides a comprehensive approach to older adult care and has been associated with reduced institutionalization, greater independence, and higher levels of physical function. This 5Ms model provides a framework to address factors impacting bone health and focuses on patient-centered care. Physical Therapists have an integral role in non-pharmacological management of this chronic condition and prevention of fractures. This presentation will integrate recent evidence-based documents and resources, including the CPG for Osteoporosis, to support clinical decision-making and application of the 5Ms model through case study examples.
- Define and apply the Geriatric 5M’s (What Matters Most, Mind, Mobility, Medication, and Multi-complexity) framework in management of osteoporosis across conditions and healthcare environments.
- Discuss key concepts of comprehensive and lifelong care of patients with low bone density and fracture risk.
- Implement and integrate evidence-based, patient-centered strategies related to fracture and fall risk to optimize mobility.
- Apply and identify resources to support clinical decision-making in bone health for older adults.
Don't Fall Behind: Raking Through Falls Risk Screening and Assessment for Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Presenters:
Ashwini Kulkarni, PT, PhD
Brittany Samulski, PT, DPT, PhD
Course Description: Falls are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults, yet there is no clear, consistent diagnostic and intervention model in place for management of these patients 2-6. This session will address the common gap in distinguishing falls risk screening from assessment when utilizing outcome measures. Participants will explore commonly used tools in clinical practice, evaluating their purpose and benefits as either screening or assessment instruments7-10. The session will also examine how these measures can inform treatment strategies for community-dwelling older adults, ensuring a more targeted and effective approach to falls prevention11-13. Participants will learn how to apply the 2022 World Falls Guidelines, particularly the falls risk stratification algorithm, to improve clinical decision-making and resource allocation1. Through interactive patient cases, participants will determine when to perform screening or assessment of falls risk, select appropriate tools, and discuss how findings inform interventions or referrals. By the end of the session, attendees will have a clearer understanding of best practices in falls risk management and how to enhance care for community-dwelling older adults.
- Differentiate between falls risk screening and assessment, recognizing their distinct roles in clinical practice.
- Evaluate commonly used outcome measures, identifying their purpose and utility as screening or assessment tools.
- Apply the 2022 World Falls Guidelines, utilizing the falls risk stratification algorithm to guide clinical decision-making.
- Use case-based scenarios to determine appropriate screening or assessment tools and discuss how findings inform intervention or referral decisions.