Essentials of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy

Course Overview

In collaboration with GeriMedRisk, this course is designed to equip pharmacists with advanced knowledge and skills in geriatric pharmacotherapy, enabling them to provide specialized care for older adults. Other healthcare providers involved in the medication management of older adults may also find this course beneficial. With the aging population, there's a growing need for healthcare professionals who understand the unique pharmacological considerations and challenges faced by older adults. This micro-credential focuses on evidence-based practices, medication management, interprofessional collaboration, and patient-centered care in the context of geriatrics.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants should be able to:

1. Explain geriatric pharmacotherapy principles

Describe the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes associated with aging.
Identify common geriatric syndromes and their implications on pharmacotherapy.

2. Apply evidence-based practices in geriatric medication management

Utilize current evidence-based guidelines to optimize pharmacotherapy in elderly patients.
Analyze and evaluate the appropriateness of prescribed medications considering potential polypharmacy, adverse effects, and age-related physiological changes.

3. Develop patient-centered care plans

Design individualized pharmacotherapy plans that consider patient preferences, comorbidities, and functional status.
Effectively communicate medication management plans to elderly patients and their families, emphasizing safety and adherence.

4. Collaborate with interprofessional teams in geriatric care

Demonstrate effective collaboration and communication with an interprofessional team, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and caregivers, to enhance patient outcomes.
Recognize the roles and contributions of various healthcare providers in geriatric care and integrate their insights into patient care.

5. Address Ethical and Cultural Considerations in Geriatric Care

Explore the role of the pharmacist in interprofessional geriatric care teams.
Discuss collaborative practice agreements and team-based care models.
Identify effective communication and coordination strategies among healthcare providers involved in geriatric care.

Competencies

Participants completing this course should demonstrate the following competencies:

1. Knowledge of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy

Competence of age-specific pharmacological principles and common geriatric conditions.
Proficiency in evaluating and adjusting medication regimens for elderly patients, minimizing risks associated with polypharmacy.

2. Evidence-Based Medication Management

Critically appraise and apply clinical guidelines specific to geriatric pharmacotherapy.
Skill in deprescribing and managing drug interactions to improve medication safety in older adults.

3. Patient-Centered Communication

Competence in engaging elderly patients and caregivers in discussions about medication regimens and potential side effects.
Tailor communication strategies to the cognitive, sensory, and cultural needs of older adults.

4. Interprofessional Collaboration

Integrate insights from various professionals to enhance patient-centered geriatric care.

5. Ethical Decision-Making and Social Challenges

Skill in identifying and navigating ethical issues specific to the older adult population.
Sensitivity to individual differences, adapting care approaches to align with patient values and preferences.

Who should take this course?

Pharmacists seeking to enhance their foundational knowledge in geriatric pharmacotherapy, including those working in community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings where they provide care for older adult patients. Other healthcare providers involved in the medication management of older adults may also find this course beneficial.