Geriatric workshop for Physiotherapy students

The Physiotherapy Department Education Committee, under the Centre for Research on Non-Communicable Diseases (CRNCD), organised a geriatric workshop titled The Brain & Body: Ageing Gracefully on 22 February 2024 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. The workshop aimed to refine physiotherapists’ skills and knowledge in geriatric care to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

The workshop featured a total of five guest speakers. They were Assoc Prof Dr Nor I’zzati Saedon from Universiti Malaya, Assoc Prof Dr Maria Justine @ Stephany from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Fairuz Ali from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Mr Wong Che Loong from Physiomax Physiotherapy Centre, and Ms Leena Li Poh Chen from University Malaya Medical Centre.

Guest speakers and participants

The workshop began with an opening speech by M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (MK FMHS) Head of Department of Physiotherapy Encik Muhammad Noh Zulfikri bin Mohd, who said, “Geriatrics is a crucial field, particularly for physiotherapists, given the ongoing ageing of our micro-ecosystem. Despite its significance, there is a notable lack of awareness, and it seems that the importance of geriatric care has been somewhat overlooked among physiotherapists. Through workshops like these, we aim to enhance awareness and foster interest in this vital area. Our goal is to inspire more physiotherapists to contribute to geriatric care in the future.”

Encik Muhammad Noh delivering his speech

Dr Nor I’zzati discussed the multifaceted aspects of ageing in Malaysia during her talk, shedding light on the physiological changes that occur in various systems as individuals age. Delving into the intricacies of ageing, she highlighted transformations in the heart, skin, respiratory system, kidneys, and brain. Emphasising the significance of exercise in mitigating the effects of ageing, she elucidated the benefits of regular physical activity on overall health. The talk extended to the realm of mental health, addressing prevalent issues among older individuals such as depression and Alzheimer’s disease, emphasising the role of brain exercises in maintaining cognitive well-being. Additionally, she explored the alarming occurrence of falls in the elderly, elucidating the repercussions of such incidents, including increased dependency and delving into the underlying causes of falls in older individuals. The comprehensive discussion offered valuable insights into the holistic approach required to address the challenges associated with ageing, encompassing both physical and mental aspects.

Assoc Prof Dr Nor I’zzati Saedon during her talk

Dr Maria Justine said, “Intrinsic capacity is the combination of an individual’s physical and mental, including psychological capacities. Functional ability is the combination and interaction of Intrinsic capacity with the environment a person inhabits.” During her talk, she provided a comprehensive overview of intrinsic capacity, fitness, and their integral role in successful ageing. She delved into the natural decline of intrinsic capacity as individuals age, addressing the challenges and implications associated with this inevitable process. Introducing the WHO-ICOPE (World Health Organization - Integrated Care for Older People) framework, she elucidated its significance in promoting comprehensive care for the elderly. The focal point of her discussion was the implementation of tailored exercise programmes, underscoring their importance in preserving intrinsic capacity and fostering successful ageing.

Assoc Prof Dr Maria Justine @ Stephany explaining intrinsic capacity

Under the expert guidance of Dr Maria Justine, the session titled “Geriatric Assessment for Physiotherapy: Integrating Standard & Advanced Approaches for Comprehensive Care” unfolded as an invaluable resource for students and healthcare practitioners. Dr Maria Justine adeptly navigated through the key components of geriatric care, commencing with an insightful exploration of geriatric syndromes. The session then delved into the intricacies surrounding mobility and balance issues, and the significance of sarcopenia as a geriatric syndrome, offering a nuanced perspective on its assessment and management. Attendees were not only informed but also equipped with practical skills through hands-on teaching on how to conduct hospitalise geriatric assessments for clients.

Assoc Prof Dr Maria Justine teaching students about hospitalise geriatric assessments (left) and sarcopenia assessment (right)

In the session titled “Breaking Barriers: Innovations in Dementia Care Through Technology & Therapy”, Dr Mohd Fairuz delivered an insightful talk to the participants. He emphasised, “Dementia is not a normal part of ageing; it is a growing global health problem and a major cause of morbidity and mortality.” Dr Mohd Fairuz covered a comprehensive array of dementia-related topics in a succinct session. Beginning with an exploration of dementia’s definition, the discussion seamlessly progressed to unveil the signs, symptoms, and pervasive impacts of the condition. Attendees gained insights into diverse treatment approaches for dementia, and the session concluded with a forward-looking examination of how technology could enhance treatment.

Dr Mohd Fairuz Ali delivering his talk on dementia

In the workshop titled “Striding into Senior Years: Understanding Gait Dysfunctions”, Mr Wong offered an in-depth exploration of key facets related to gait issues among the ageing population. Delving into age-related gait deviations, he illuminated the nuanced factors influencing gait speed, emphasising the importance of hip strength norms and quadriceps strength. Attendees gained practical insights as Mr Wong demonstrated diverse walking styles to facilitate the identification of potential gait problems. Additionally, the workshop delved into innovative approaches, such as high-intensity focused electromagnetic therapy, showcasing a forward-thinking perspective on addressing and managing gait dysfunctions among senior citizens. Overall, Mr Wong’s workshop provided a comprehensive and practical understanding of age-related gait challenges and cutting-edge therapeutic interventions.

Mr Wong Che Loong delivering his talk

Mr Wong explaining alignment and biomechanics

Mr Wong and students during the workshop

During the group therapy presentation, Ms Leena Li focused on group exercise therapy specifically designed for older adults. She highlighted the initiatives implemented at Pusat Perubatan Universiti Malaya (PPUM) for geriatric patients. In addition to group exercises within the wards, older adults actively engage in activities such as gardening and cooking. Ms Leena emphasised that these endeavours are essential for fostering community involvement among the elderly, aiming to prevent secondary complications like depression and immobility.

Ms Leena Li Poh Chen