International Conference on Aging & Gerontology Aug 08-09, 2016
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Chair

Paul Langer

Twin Cities Orthopedics, USA

Co-Chair

Olivier Beauchet

McGill University, Canada

Session Introduction

Fangyu Peng

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, USA

Title: Altered copper metabolism: A novel imaging biomarker in aging

Time : 12:10-12:40

Biography:

Fangyu Peng has been graduated from Jiangxi Medical College, China as Medical Doctor and College of Medicine, University of South Florida, USA with PhD in Medical Microbiology and Immunology. Later on he obtained his postgraduate clinical pathology residency training from the Update Medical University, Syracuse, New York and nuclear medicine residency training from the University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut. Fangyu Peng is certified in clinical pathology by the American Board of Pathology and nuclear medicine by the American Board of Nuclear Medicine. Presently he is working as a nuclear medicine physician-scientist to practice clinical nuclear medicine and conduct translational research in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at the Dallas, Texas, USA

Abstract:

Copper is a nutritional metal required for brain development and physiology. Disruption of copper homeostasis, either a copper deficiency or the accumulation of excess amount of copper in brain tissues, causes neurodegeneration and various symptoms of neurological disorders. Using copper-64 chloride (64CuCl2) as a tracer, age-dependent changes of 64Cu uptake in the brains of Tau transgenic mice and age-matched C57BL/6 mice were assessed noninvasively and quantitatively by a longitudinal Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) imaging study. Age-dependent changes of cerebral 64Cu uptake were detected in the mice, showing decreased 64Cu uptake in the brains of Tau transgenic mice at older age compared with 64Cu uptake in the brains of Tau transgenic mice at a younger age and age-matched C57BL/6 mice. The findings suggest that altered copper metabolism is a novel, promising imaging biomarker for noninvasive assessment of brain aging with PET/CT using 64CuCl2 as a tracer (64CuCl2- PET/CT).

Kimberly Forrest

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania, USA

Title: Patterns and correlates of grip strength in older Americans

Time : 12:40-13:10

Biography:

Kimberly Forrest completed her Ph.D of epidemiology from the Graduate School of Public Health at University of Pittsburgh 20 years ago. She has published nearly 50 research papers in the areas of aging, cardiovascular disease, women’s health, minority health, etc. Currently, she is a professor of public health and teaches epidemiology, biostatistics, international health and other courses related to public health.

Abstract:

Muscle strength is a sensitive indicator of morbidity and mortality in older adults. Decreased muscle strength contributes to decreased physical functioning. Hand grip strength is a simple measurement, yet it signifies total body muscle strength. The current study evaluated the patterns and correlates of grip strength among older U.S. adults. Data from the 2011-2012 National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were analyzed. Grip strength was measured using a digital dynamometer. Three tests were conducted for each hand, and the combined grip strength was used in the analysis. The SAS survey procedures were utilized to analyze the data. All analyses were based on the weighted data for a better representation of the U.S. population. This study included 1009 individuals (44.3% males) who were aged ≥ 65 years and had gripped strength measurements. Age distribution was 31.5%, 27.2%, 16.2%, and 25.0% for 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, and 80+, respectively. Race distribution was 81.1%, 8.3%, 7.1%, and 3.5% for Whites, Blacks, Hispanics, and Asians, respectively. The mean grip strength was 71.7 kg in males and 44.6 kg in females, declining with increasing age (p<.0001). After adjusting for gender, age, and race, having a lower body weight and not being in good health status were significantly and independently associated with decreased grip strength. These findings suggest that grip strength could be a useful indicator for overall health assessment in older adult populations.

Break: Panel Discussion

Lunch Break 13:10-14:00 @ Atrium

Julijana Chochovski

The Cairnmillar Institute, Australia

Title: Ageing and depression: Sense of purpose, self-efficacy, values and self-esteem as protective factors

Time : 14:00-14:30

Biography:

Julijana Chochovski is a Clinical Psychologist Registrar and is the head of research programs and Development for the Cairnmillar Institute. Educated at Monash University and the Cairnmillar Institute, she has many years of experience in working with psychological disorders in adults. Julijana’s broad research experience ranges from understanding the neurological impact of depression and moods, coupled with her current clinical research projects focusing on the therapeutic treatment and needs of older adults

Abstract:

One of the greatest social and economic challenges of the twenty-first century is the projected cost of looking after the increased numbers of elderly people. By 2056 Australia’s population is projected to increase to between 31 - 43 million people, with around 23% to 25% being 65 years or older (Attorney-General’s Department, 2010). Old age can present many challenges; the most obvious and documented is the decline in physical health. The aim of this study was investigate the role of; a sense of purpose, self-efficacy, sense of value and self-worth in predicting symptoms of depression in older adults. It was hypothesised that after 55 years of age, an increase in meaning in life would be dependent on having a sense of purpose, self-efficacy, sense of value, self-esteem and how these factors affect self-reported symptoms of depression. The participants were 114 Australian men and women over 55 years of age who were recruited from an older adult’s education group, S.A.G.E (Successful Ageing for Growth and Enjoyment). The participant’s mental health and depressive symptomatology were assessed using the following questionnaires; Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MILQ), Causal Uncertainty Scale (CUS), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES), Purpose in Life Scale (PIL), Geriatric Depression Scale-Short Form (GDS-SF), and the Short Schwartz’s Value Survey (SSVS). The results showed that high levels of self-reported depressive symptomology were associated significantly with a lack of meaning in participant's lives. The results also illustrated the significant negative association between depressive symptomatology and levels of a sense of purpose, self-efficacy, worth and a sense of value. The study provides strong evidence for building meaning, a sense of purpose, self-efficacy, a sense of one’s values and self-esteem in older adults as a prevention or treatment for depression.

Yvette Michelle Rose

Olivet Nazarene University School of Health and Life Sciences, USA

Title: Fighting a new battle: A bathing care standard for caregivers of elderly male military veterans with delayed onset post-traumatic stress disorder

Time : 14:30-15:00

Biography:

Yvette Rose has completed her DNP from Governors State University, University Park IL. She is an Associate Professor of Nursing at Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais IL. She has been serving as a member of Kappa Sigma Chapter and Lambda Lambda Chapter, International American Society on Aging and American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her Honors Includes Includes American Psychiatric Nurses Association Board of Directors 2014 Student Scholar in 2014, San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) Partners in Nursing Excellence in 2013 and Illinois Board of Higher Education Nurse Educator Fellowship Award Recipient in 2012.

Abstract:

Despite many veterans hopes that the invisible wounds of war can be healed, they leave scars. Most survivors of military combat who have experienced or witnessed life-threatening events, such as terrorist incidents and serious accidents, can adjust to life without lingering effects. Many years after a war, other aging veterans find themselves fighting a new battle as they strive to cope with Delayed Onset Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (DOPTSD). For other aging military veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder, activities of daily living, particularly bathing, can be a stressful task. This scholarly project is an evidence-based bathing care standard created for family and direct care caregivers who have been experiencing the challenges to achieve “bathing without a battle.” This project translated the body of nursing science known as “bathing without a battle” for veterans who have dementia to those elderly male military veterans who have DOPTSD. Maladaptive behaviors such as kicking, biting, hitting, scratching, throwing objects, spitting and cursing were measured. Results reflected an effective means to improve the bathing experiences of veterans who have DOPTSD and who live in long-term care and residential settings. The routine and environment was changed implementing patient centered care interventions. The purpose is to see if these interventions would be able to assist veterans to better adapt to bathing, which will no longer be a battle. By changing the bathing routine and environment and caregivers, these veterans may be better able to adapt to bathing so that it will no longer be a battle.

Peter Bewert

The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus, Australia

Title: Homelessness, mental health and holistic support: A lifestyle and wellness model in residential care

Time : 15:00-15:30

Biography:

Peter Bewert is a Registered Nurse who has worked in a number of high level roles across the aged care sector. He is a representative of the Australian National Aged Care Alliance, Nurse Administrator and Advisor for Aged Care Services, both advisory roles to the Australian Commonwealth. He has been influential in shaping policy regarding palliative care through expressions of the international Salvation Army and a speaker at national and international conferences. He holds a Bachelor of Nursing and Post Graduate Qualifications in Oncology and Human resource Management.

Abstract:

The model of care is based on a relationship-based, person-centred focus offered as a specialist care home for men, the majority of whom have a mental illness, history of incarceration/institutionalisation or homelessness, substance abuse and previous failed residential placements. There is a general reluctance to admit this cohort to mainstream aged care for various reasons (substance use/abuse, personal hygiene and compatibility). Further, some residents in the centre have come from the justice system, where disproportionate percentages are sex offenders; not always preferred candidates for residential aged care homes require placement. 150% of the current resident population at Montrose are managed through the Office of the Adult Guardian (Public Trustee) due to a history of incarceration or homelessness. With a basis in equality and empowerment, the model comprises a three staged, resident centric governance process achieving balance between dependence, interdependence and independence by: •Focusing on capabilities, not deficits •Fostering a shared understanding of importance in the residents day-to-day life, their current situation and the future they desire. Experience has shown the best relationships are reciprocal – thus, the centre philosophy is based on a collaborative, reciprocal and respectful relationship between the residents and care staff. This is vital working with people who have limited family and social networks. The care home is well respected as a unique and dynamic home with a focus on relationships and connection to others. Since implementing the model in 2013 there has been a reduced resident turnover rate within the home with fewer discharges related to decreased life expectancy or return to a homeless lifestyle. Residents experience an increased sense of contentment and community connect with the local community and residential community at the home.

Sharon Callister

The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus, Australia

Title: Person centred approaches in commissioning memory support units

Time : 15:30-16:00

Biography:

Sharon has qualifications in Nursing, Business and Health Administration and graduated from the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She began her leadership journey at St.Vincent’s Hospital, followed by The Australian Red Cross Blood Service. In 2006, She secured her first CEO role with Benetas Anglican Aged Care Services. In 2008 she moved to Sydney to become the CEO for The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus where under her leadership she has developed it into a thriving $120m service caring for 1700 older Australians. With more to give, in 2012 She took on an additional CEO role to lead The Salvation Army Humanitarian Mission Services delivering a $75m Federal Government contract, managing welfare for Asylum Seekers at Nauru and Manus Island. Sharon’s leadership has been recognized by many and in 2012 was a finalist in the NSW Telstra Businesswoman of the Year and was included in the 2012 Westpac/Financial Review 100 Women of Influence Awards. She is also known to ‘run for her life’ in 250km ultra marathons that tests physical and mental endurance; qualities contributing to her successful leadership journey.

Abstract:

This presentation will focus on our model for families admitting their loved ones into a newly commissioned residential service. The person centered approach within our memory support units ensures that residents who require a secure environment as a result of significant cognitive impairment are cared in a manner which is holistic, provides opportunity to stimulate the senses and evokes a calming atmosphere. Our model and framework is focussed on individualistic needs of residents and attitudes of staff operating within a family / community framework. Evaluation has shown that key success factors are: •Initial set-up, training and mentoring of staff is critical and should be self-sustaining, (i.e., positive role-modelling at the ground level, education and setting standards of care and expectations of staff behaviour which creates a positive culture of care) •Continuity of staff encourages staff engagement. Staff feeling valued in their role is a key component to resident, representative satisfaction and quality of life. •Staff attitude – staff demonstrate a high level of respect for residents resulting in tangible physical, emotional and spiritual outcomes for residents. •A high awareness of individual resident's needs and resulting behavioural responses by staff towards resident's increases the bond of trust and co-operation, whilst meeting a deep emotional need for residents. •The creation of a homely, emotionally and physically safe environment which is individualistic in nature. •Involvement and inclusion of relatives in the day-today running and activities of the unit. •High levels of activities and the opportunity for residents to engage in familiar every day activities via sensory areas

Break: Panel Discussion

Networking and Refreshment 16:00-16:20 @ Atrium

Video Presentation @ 16:20-16:40

Mohammed Abduh Alshaqi

Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Saudi Arabia

Title: Adapting to death, dying and bereavement of geriatric palliative and end of life care

Time : 16:40-17:10

Biography:

Mohammed Abduh Alshaqi is a Palliative Medicine Doctor. He did his MBBS from King Saud University 1992/1993, Arab Board of Family Medicine 2001, then Palliative Care from Canada and King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center at 2006 to 2008. He is now a Consultant and Head of Palliative Medicine, division of Oncology Department at Prince Sultan Military Medical City at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In addition to that, he is a trainer and external examiner of Palliative Medicine of Saudi Commission for Health Specialties and Acting director of Saudi Society of Palliative Care since 2013 till present. He is a member of many Affiliation and Societies like the American Academy of Family Physicians and Saudi Society of Family and Community Medicine since 2001. In addition to that, he is a member of the Middle East Academy of Medicine of Aging (MEAMA) since 2003, member of International Association for Hospice and Palliative care since 2006, member of the Saudi Oncology Society since 2008, member of the Saudi Pain Society since 2009, member of Group on Educational Affairs (GEA) for Medical Education Research Program (MERC) since 2011, he is a member of the Arab Society of Palliative Care since 2014 till present.

Abstract:

Our fear of death and the loss of a loved one are two of the most monumental emotional challenges of human existence. This anxiety is usually suppressed and is only exposed when the reality of a possible death is confronted. Fear of death stems from different sources, for example the thought of our non-existence and the fear of the unknown of what lies beyond death. Palliative care has recognized the power of this suffering and is concerned with helping people cope and adapt. This is incorporated into a philosophy of care that has resulted in the principles of palliative care. In industrialized and technological societies, death has been removed from the family home into institutions with care provided by professionals. This has resulted in a lack of familiarity with the dying process, which may contribute to a fear of death and dying within the society. Death, dying and bereavement challenges the fundamental values and meaning of the human experience. Such a threat has the potential to provoke considerable distress and has therefore interested health professionals. It is important while providing care that we do not lose sight of the individual patient involved and the individuality of each experience of dying, death and bereavement. This presentation will review how to improve the understanding of the processes involved, the damaging consequences that can occur and the role of health professionals in caring for the dying and the bereaved.

Chair

Nicole Jane Brooke

Aged Care Consultancy, Australia

Co-Chair

Win-Ping Deng

Taipei Medical University, Taiwan

Chair

Nicole Jane Brooke

Aged Care Consultancy, Australia

Co-Chair

Win-Ping Deng

Taipei Medical University, Taiwan

Session Introduction

Elizabeth Rodriguez Kessler

University of Houston, USA

Title: Literary constructions of “older” characters

Time : 12:10-12:40

Biography:

Elizabeth Kessler has been graduated from University of Houston as a Doctor of Philosophy in English, with the concentrations including American Literature and Chicano literature. Later she pursued her interest in the use of culinary material in literature and ageing in literature and film. She has taught at California State University, Northridge, and she is currently at the University of Houston, Central Campus.

Abstract:

Beginning in the early 1980s with the persistence of Barbara McDonald, ageing gradually became not only of interest to, but also a serious topic for scholarly investigation and critique of Women’s Studies Programs. The growing body of knowledge about ageing was not however, limited to Women’s Studies, but continues to spread outside the field and to be an area of importance not only to women who have entered or will enter the "Othered" category that is old age” (Marshall vii) but also to men. Today, literary studies have produced criticism that interrogates the stereotypes of aging in works ranging from children’s stories to classic novels, poetry and drama. This article attempts to present a brief overview of how authors have sadly developed aging individuals with stereotypical characteristics that act as boundaries from which they cannot easily escape. Because these qualities are instilled in children’s minds from the time they have read fairy tales and learn to read independently, they grow up with a pre-conceived notion that older men are "helpless, incapable of caring for themselves and generally passive” Studies show that these ageist beliefs are perpetuated in children’s understanding as they age and as they read adult literature that continues to reinforce negative descriptions of older men and women. In this presentation, I will discuss characters in Hansel and Gretel, Rebecca, The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock and Fences, examining the trajectory of the descriptions of men and women who have become “Other.”

Peter Bewert

The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus, Australia

Title: Consumer directed care in residential care environments: An Australian case study of wellness alliance

Time : 12:40-13:10

Biography:

Peter Bewert is a Registered Nurse who has worked in a number of high level roles across the aged care sector. Peter is a representative on the Australian National Aged Care Alliance and Nurse Administrator and Advisor for Aged Care Services, both advisory roles to the Australian Commonwealth. He has been influential in shaping policy regarding palliative care through expressions of the international Salvation Army, and a speaker at national and international conferences. He holds a Bachelor of Nursing and Post Graduate Qualifications in Oncology and Human resource Management.

Abstract:

Research in the United States of America has shown substantial benefits for consumer direction for persons of all ages, cultures and backgrounds who need long-term care. Further, the argument that consumer directed services are not appropriate for elderly persons with disabilities or for individuals with cognitive impairments has been debunked, with studies showing many elderly, individuals with disabilities and persons with cognitive impairments can express daily preferences for care and can benefit from consumer directed programs. As a provider of consumer directed care in home care packages, we are aware of the changes which occur when the locus of control moves to consumers, particularly those who have been financially or socially disadvantaged. However, implementing a unique CDC model into each of our centres will require innovation and flexibility in the type of services offered, as in the future, clients will be much more in control and will expect to have a choice. As an organisation, this means co-ordinated change is required in: •Care models •Organisational culture •Business processes The development of unique care models in our residential centres has commenced. At the Carpenter Court Aged Care Plus Centre with the development of a person-centred, resident directed behaviour support plan targeted at older people who have a mental illness with severe, persistently challenging behaviours. The model of care is evidence of our vision in action – our uncompromising commitment to all Australians, creating loving home and family environment which enhances health and spiritual well-being, whilst offering a home of peace and acceptance. Results have shown: •Increased occupancy (78% -99%) above the industry average of 93%. •Resident emotional well-being increased by 10%, with residents reporting a strong sense of belonging to the centre. •Maintenance of people with severely disturbed behaviours in the community- separations due to mental health problems decreased by 25%. •increased awareness of staff in resolution of aggressive behaviour; •stable staff establishment with a turnover well below industry benchmark 4; •decreased admissions to hospital; and •development of a sense of belonging in a caring community of peers

Break: Panel Discussion

Lunch Break 13:10-14:00 @ Atrium

Noelle Marie Javier

Icahn School of Medicine, USA

Title: Why under-rated? The role of rehabilitation in the geriatric, hospice and palliative care populations

Time : 14:00-14:30

Biography:

Noelle Marie C. Javier MD is an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Health System in New York City. She received her fellowship training in both geriatrics and hospice and palliative medicine at the University of Michigan Health Systems in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She is a full time faculty in the clinician educator track in the Department of Geriatrics and Palliative medicine at Mount Sinai.

Abstract:

Progressive disability is a common but significant problem in the hospice and palliative care population as well as geriatric patients with chronic and life-long illnesses. It leads to depression, isolation, poor quality of life and overall increased caregiver needs, health care utilization, and institutional care. Contributing factors may include but not limited to disease progression, muscle deconditioning, surgical and medical complications, malnutrition, neurologic deficits, musculoskeletal problems, pain and non-pain symptoms, and active comorbid medical issues. Rehabilitation is based on function and has been conceived of in stages to include the prevention of disability, restoration to the premorbid state whenever possible, support to reduce disability, and palliation to reduce complications. There are supporting studies that attest to the role of physical rehabilitation improving function and quality of life for these patients. In fact, the fastest growing and rehabilitation-requiring population is adults over 65 years of age. Therefore, a thorough and inter-professional assessment of the patient’s medical, functional, and psychosocial status is critical in designing an appropriate and effective rehabilitation program. It is important to consider the patient’s goals and preferences, current level of disability, potential for improvement, and the availability and cost of resources before implementing a care plan. Rehabilitation can be offered in a variety of settings to include inpatient, sub-acute, outpatient, and the home environment. This oral presentation discusses the concept and benefits of physical rehabilitation as well as the role of physical, occupational and speech-language therapy as core rehabilitation interventions.

Heizel Mae A. Lucas

University of Santo Tomas, Philippines

Title: A Grounded Theory of Successful Aging among Select Incarcerated Female Filipino Elderly

Time : 14:30-15:00

Biography:

Heizel Mae A. Lucas is a graduating student from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines under the degree program of Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The study was defended last November 2015 and they also won 1st place in the oral presentation for qualitative research entitled “Disseminating Research Output through Oral and Poster Presentation” which was held in the University of Santo Tomas last January 18, 2016.

Abstract:

Across the literature, impairment and disability among the elderly has been associated with a decline in meeting their special needs. Failure in meeting such needs may cause deterioration of function and threaten successful aging. Surprisingly, much of the literature has described successful aging of mostly males and those who are in health care institutions or living amongst society. The process of successful aging of older women who are incarcerated remain to be a blank spot in nursing research. Hence, this study purports to describe the process by which incarcerated Filipino female elderly experience successful aging. Strauss and Corbin’s grounded theory, design was employed in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to 15 purposefully selected incarcerated female Filipinos elderly from a penal institution for women in the Philippines. Further, data gathered was reduced to field text and was analyzed through open, axial and selective coding. Finally, truthfulness and trustworthiness of the findings were established through member checking. The study generated The Road to Success Model. Interestingly, five phases relative to successful aging emerged, namely: Struggling, Re-motivating, Reforming, Reintegrating and Sustaining. These phases describe how select female Filipino incarcerated elderly undergoes transformation towards successful aging. Similar to a road, each phase is considered a station one must pass through in order to get to the destination. The findings of the study serve as impetus for structural and procedural changes in prison, with a view to providing environment conducive to successful aging; and appropriate recognition for the elderly’s efforts to achieve successful aging.

Philip F. Daniels

University of Florida, USA

Title: Mental health implications of caregiver burden and role transition

Time : 15:00-15:30

Biography:

Philip Daniels is a doctoral student in counselor education and earning a Masters in aging and geratric practice. He has a Masters in professional counseling and marriage and family therapy. His experiences include volunteer and professional roles working with clients in hospice, memory disorder units, mental health and rehabilitation units, and community agencies conducting individual or family interventions. Specific expertise’s include clinical practice and counselor education in the following areas: marriage and family therapy, dementia, caregivers of individuals with dementia, death and dying, end-of-life issues, grief and variations e.g. anticipatory & complicated, trauma, LGBT, substance abuse, and transcultural counselor competencies.

Abstract:

Dementia is on the rise: Caregiver’s are the “silent victims.” This workshop will provide an overview of mental health implications of caregiver burden and role transition. Mental health of caregivers will be explored through the lens of stress theory, role theory, grounded optimism, grief, communication skills, and coping skills. The need for help and support that individual and family interventions provide may improve the quality of life for the caregiver, which in turn may improve the quality of life for the care recipient. Specific mental disorders that will be covered include depression, anxiety, and substance use. With the movement of “aging in place,” there is an inevitable need to address the current rising needs of caregivers and individuals with dementia. Worldwide, dementia affects 36 million individuals; this number is on the rise. By the year 2050, it is expected to increase to 115 million individuals. In the United States, approximately 61.6 million caregivers provided in-home care in 2009. Being that this is unpaid work, there was an estimated cost $450 billion, which increased from $375 billion in 2007 (Robinson et. at., 2013; Chiao, et. al., 2009). Evidence points to a need for awareness, advocacy, and competencies as counselors help mediate the effects of caregiver burden. This presentation is multi-theoretical to capture the intersections of stress theory, role theory, grounded optimism, and speech accommodation theory in order to best serve clients in need.

Olivier Beauchet

McGill University, Canada

Title: Fall prediction in older adults: From dual-task to artificial neural network

Time : 15:30-16:00

Biography:

Olivier Beauchet has completed his doctorate in Neurology and Geriatrics (1995 to 2000) at Saint-Etienne University, France. In 2005, he obtained his PhD in “Human Motor Function and Disability”. He was appointed Full Professor in 2008 at Angers University, France. He was recruited by McGill University in 2015, when he was appointed as the prestigious Joseph Kaufmann Chair in Geriatrics and the Director of the Centre of Excellence on Aging and Chronic Disease. Presently, he is a Full Professor of Geriatrics at McGill. He is recognized world leader in research on age-related gait disorders

Abstract:

Falls are highly prevalent among adults aged 65 years and over with prevalence estimated around 35%. Falls lead to injuries, hospitalization, loss of independence and social disability, which impose high costs to public health and social services. Identification of fallers, which is the first step of falls prevention strategies in older community dwellers, is therefore crucial for their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. There are complex interactions between host-related motor behaviors and environmental characteristics for the mechanism of falls. Due to the interplay between risk factors of falls, the prediction of falls remains difficult and depends on combinations of risk factors of falls. Over the past years, dual task-related gait changes have frequently been reported among older adults. However, published data are heterogeneous and show that impaired dual tasking is and is not associated with falls, or is even an irrelevant fall risk indicator compared to impaired single task performance. More recently it has been reported that Artificual Nerula Networks (ANN), using a set of clinical characteristics corresponding to the most commonly reported risk factors for falling, was an efficient way for the identification of recurrent fallers in older community-dwellers. Thus, these previous results suggest that ANNs could improve the predictive performance of the tools designed to predict falls. The aim of this presenttaion is systematic review all published data which examined the relationship between fall and changes in gait and/or attention-demanding task performance while dual tasking and to open a new perspective with ANN.

Break: Panel Discussion

Networking and Refreshment 16:00-16:20 @ Atrium

Poster Presentations 16:00-17:00 @ Atrium

Certificate & Award Presentations

Thanks Giving & Closing Ceremony