Addressing the Complexity of Geriatric Physical Therapy by Translating Knowledge using the Framework of the Geriatric 5Ms.

Greg Hartley, Keith Avin, Cathy Ciolek, Kenneth Miller
Purpose:

We will present the cadre of knowledge translation documents utilizing the 5Ms framework for published CPGs and systematic reviews for the screening and management of falls in community-dwelling older adults, and in those with suspected or confirmed osteoporosis. Emphasis will be placed on the translational tool (5Ms) used to assist in synthesizing and prioritizing recommendations from multiple evidence-based documents meant to guide physiotherapist’s management of individuals with multiple simultaneous conditions.   

Methods:

APTA Geriatrics has developed an evidence-based documents committee charged with the development of CPGs for the management of geriatric-related conditions, and a work group that focuses on systematic reviews for screening. Companion documents of screening and management for falls and osteoporosis have been developed and published (Avin et al., 2015; Avin et al., 2022; Hartley et al., 2022; Lusardi et al., 2017; Wingood et al., 2023). We will present the synthesized knowledge translation documents for osteoporosis and falls that span the screening, examination and intervention process while utilizing the geriatric 5Ms framework (i.e., mind/mentation, multi-complexity, mobility, medication, and matters most). 

Results:

Synthesized knowledge translation documents that highlight recommendations and developed resources for osteoporosis, falls and geriatric syndromes. 

Conclusion(s):

APTA Geriatrics has endorsed and adopted the use of the Geriatric 5Ms model to guide all knowledge translation efforts to support interdisciplinary and evidence-based practice vital to optimal care for older adults. APTA Geriatrics encourages other international groups and associations to consider adoption of the 5M’s to integrate physiotherapists as primary care practitioners.

Implications:

Knowledge translation documents provide a palatable and efficient distillation of current, up-to-date recommendations from EBDs. These knowledge translation documents serve as a model for implementation of global physiotherapy practice for older adults.

Funding acknowledgements:
None.
Keywords:
Geriatrics
Knowledge Translation
Interdisciplinary Care
Primary topic:
Research methodology, knowledge translation and implementation science
Second topic:
Older people
Third topic:
Health promotion and wellbeing/healthy ageing/physical activity
Did this work require ethics approval?:
No
Has any of this material been/due to be published or presented at another national or international conference prior to the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025?:
No

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