Objectives by Module

Module 1:    The Physiology of Aging

•          Learners will be able to describe the normal changes that occur with aging

•          Learners will be able to identify the common age-related changes that occur in the following systems: cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, hematology/immune, gastrointestinal, endocrine, neurologic, musculoskeletal, and reproductive

Module 2:    Dementia

•          Learners will be able to define dementia

•          Learners will be able to name risk factors/causes for dementia

•          Learners will be able to discuss why delirium and depression are predictors/red flags for dementia

•          Learners will be able to discuss assessment tools/strategies for identifying dementia

•          Learners will be able to name at least 5 types of dementia

•          Learners will be able to discuss the treatment options for dementia

Module 3:    Delirium

•          Learners will be able to define delirium and describe its cardinal features and underlying pathophysiology

•          Learners will be able to recognize that delirium is common, under-diagnosed, and associated with significant morbidity and mortality

•          Learners will be able to, regarding delirium, identify ways to: 

»      prevent

»      diagnose

»      evaluate

»      manage

•          Learners will be able to teach key concepts in < 1 minute

•          Learners will be able to define delirium and describe its cardinal features and underlying pathophysiology

Module 4:    Transitions of Care

•          Learners will be able to define transitional care

•          Learners will be able to identify barriers to providing improved transitional care to patients

Module 5:    Basics of Geriatric Assessment & Levels of Care

•          Learners will be able to illustrate the importance of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial assessments for older adults

•          Learners will be able to describe Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)

•          Learners will be able to demonstrate gait assessment and falls risk assessment with an older adult

•          Learners will be able to demonstrate cognitive and depression screening with an older adult

Module 6:    Iatrogenic Injury

•          Learners will be able to list the most common types of iatrogenic injuries

•          Learners will be able to identify the most common cause of nosocomial fever in the hospital

•          Learners will be able to identify the reasons for use of restraints and how to avoid using them

•          Learners will be able to list the appropriate use of urinary catheters

Module 7:    Palliative Care Communications

•          Learners will be able to address Palliative Care misconceptions: What, Why, Where, Who

•          Learners will be able to review outcomes of Palliative Care

•          Learners will be able to present general communication strategies

•          Learners will be able to discuss pain assessment and management principles for older adults

Module 8:    Polypharmacy

•          Learners will be able to identify risk factors for Adverse Drug Events (ADEs) in older adults

•          Learners will be able to identify the physiologic changes associated with normal aging that influence pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

•          Learners will be able to recognize ADEs when an older adult presents with a new clinical condition or complaint

•          Learners will be able to avoid potentially harmful medications for older adults

•          Learners will be able to utilize strategies for shortening medication lists and carefully introducing new medications