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This Month's CME Article in Clinical Geriatrics

Gait in Older Adults: A Review of the Literature with an Emphasis Toward Achieving Favorable Clinical Outcomes, Part II
Meredith H. Harris, PT, DPT, EdD, Maureen K. Holden, PT, PhD, Lawrence P. Cahalin, PT, MA, Diane Fitzpatrick, PT, DPT, MS, Susan Lowe, PT, DPT, MS, GCS, and Paul K. Canavan, PT, PhD

Changes in motor skills that occur with aging vary widely. It is generally accepted that many bodily functions decline with age, including the ability to walk. For older individuals, walking is one of the most important factors in maintaining an independent lifestyle and remaining in the community. As aging occurs, there can be distinct changes in gait patterns. There is some controversy in the field as to whether change occurs as a result of aging or as a result of pathology.

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Feature Article

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Annals of Long-Term Care - ISSN: 1524-7929 - Volume 14 - Issue 9-September - September 2006
Linda Hiddemen Barondess, Executive Vice-President
James K. Cooper, MD, AGSF

10 Ethical Principles in Geriatrics and Long-Term Care
Fred M. Feinsod, MD, MPH, CMD, and Cathy Wagner, RN, MSN, MBA
Richard G. Stefanacci, DO, MGH, MBA, AGSF, CMD; Series Editor: Barney S. Spivack, MD, FACP, AGSF, CMD
Geriatrics Abstracts:
September 2006
JAGS Abstracts:
September 2006
Charles A. Cefalu, MD, MS
Karen W. Lee, PharmD, CDM, and Erica Murrell, PharmD, CGP
It is well documented that patients age 65 years and older who are infected with the influenza virus will likely experience serious complications leading to hospitalization, and even death. In the past few years, there have been numerous advancements and changes, including the development of resistance, in the therapeutic agents available for treatment and prophylaxis of an influenza viral infection. Although the annual influenza vaccine is considered the gold standard in the prevention of such complications, a recent publication refutes its value. This article provides a general overview of the influenza virus and the therapeutic agents used in treatment and prophylaxis of the infection. Using evidence-based medicine and consensus data, it reviews strategies used in the therapeutic and practical management of influenza viral infections in elderly persons in various practice settings. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14 [9]:20-27)

Cytokines and the Care of the Older Adult
Rafi Kevorkian, MD
Cytokines are produced by many cells in the body and have a multitude of functions. Genetic polymorphisms exist, which can be beneficial if excess cytokines are not produced. Interleukin-6 plays a major role in modulating aging and causes a variety of geriatric syndromes such as frailty and anorexia. Recognizing the integral role of cytokines and the geriatric syndromes is important for clinicians, so that proper therapy can be given to avoid harmful consequences for the patient. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14[9]:34-40)
Lynn Stern, MSW, and Janet Fogler, MSW
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