Treating Aging Adults With Genetic Causes of I/DD: Down Syndrome & ASD
Presented by Cynthia N. Potter
Non-Financial: Cynthia N. Potter has no competing non-financial interests or relationships with regard to the content presented in this course.
Individuals aging with genetic causes of intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) such as Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders have specific problems unique to these diagnoses. As more individuals with Down syndrome and autism live longer, and as the numbers of those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders have increased, physical therapists and physical therapy assistants in all settings are likely to encounter these patients. An understanding of unique diagnosis-related issues that occur is key to developing effective interventions and health promotion strategies to support a high quality of life and maximize function in these individuals. This course will cover the common characteristics and clinical issues, with a focus on Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders.
Meet your instructor
Cynthia N. Potter
Cindy Potter, PT, MS, DPT, has worked with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in many different practice settings, including early intervention, outpatient, preschool, school, community-based settings, and ICF/IDD facilities for 39 years. She earned a BS in biology and English writing from…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Age-Related Changes in Those With Down Syndrome
This chapter describes the specific changes that occur with aging in those with Down syndrome that can affect function. This includes a focus on the issues of early onset of Alzheimer's disease and how it influences musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and behavioral changes that can impact physical therapy care.
2. Age-Related Changes in Those With ASD
This chapter describes the specific changes that occur with aging in those with autism spectrum disorders that can affect function. This includes a focus on sensory, psychosocial, and behavioral considerations that can impact physical therapy care. In light of limited research available about physical function in those aging with autism spectrum disorders, the chapter will present best practice considerations.
3. Examples and Case Study: Developing a Plan of Care to Maintain Physical Activity and Motor Function
The examples and case study in this chapter demonstrate the incorporation of intervention strategies based on the specific problems and characteristics of individuals with I/DD with a genetic cause. A case study of a 53-year-old adult with Down syndrome living in a group home setting who has had an increased incidence of falls is presented. The use of the case study as evidence is described based on Sackett’s hierarchy.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about Medbridge courses.
Who creates Medbridge courses?
We work with industry-leaders, top researchers, and consultants to build content roadmaps that are then structured into courses, filmed, and edited by our production team before being launched to our site.
How often does Medbridge release new courses?
New courses are added monthly and are automatically included in your subscription as they launch.
How often does Medbridge update courses?
Medbridge reviews its courses annually for relevance and to assess if content is up to date. Based on these reviews it may be determined that a course is out of date resulting in the course being re-filmed or retired, if the content is no longer needed (e.g. a replacement course already exists, the concepts are no longer best practice, etc.).
How many courses does Medbridge offer?
We have over 3,000 accredited courses and we are continually updating our library with new courses. Check our course library for the most up-to-date count for your discipline.
Are there any additional fees for taking a Medbridge course?
There are no additional fees for taking a Medbridge course, obtaining a course certificate of completion, earning CEUs as a subscriber, or accessing any of the additional tools your subscription may include.
Is there a limit to the number of courses I can take?
There is no limit to the number of courses you can take as a subscriber! As a subscriber to Medbridge, you have unlimited access to over 3,000+ accredited CE courses.
If you are a Premium subscriber, you also have unlimited access to our Patient Engagement Tools such as the Home Exercise Program, Patient Education Library, Orthopedic Exam Tests, and Manual Therapy Techniques. We have over 7,000 exercises and over 650+ videos and handouts of patient education resources with more exercises and patient education added to the library based on subscriber feedback, volume of request and specialities.
What is your refund policy?
You are eligible for a refund provided your request is received within 30 days of your subscription purchase and your account has no activity.