BGS wants physios and others to submit video case studies on rehab services for older people

Physiotherapists providing rehabilitation for older people are being invited to record videos about their work and submit them to the British Geriatrics Society (BGS) by the end of May.

The BGS is aiming to screen a selection of case study videos – which can last up to 10 minutes – at this year’s annual meeting, which takes place in Birmingham and online from 22-24 November. The society, which plans to the host the videos on its website, is also encouraging healthcare professions to submit abstracts that highlight their services.

We are particularly keen to hear from members of the multidisciplinary team across the four countries of the UK, with rehab case studies from community, primary and acute care and from care homes [BGS]

Among other topics, the BGS says it wants to hear about community services that help older people to recover following discharge from hospital. Other suggestions include ‘pre-hab’ services that have been developed with voluntary sector partners, or an hospital-based programmes that help older people build their strength and balance and avoid deconditioning.

‘Wherever rehab is undertaken, we’d like to hear how it is helping older people,’ it states. ‘Feel free to focus on patient outcomes and share the challenges you face as well as achievements. 

‘We are particularly keen to hear from members of the multidisciplinary team across the four countries of the UK, with rehab case studies from community, primary and acute care and from care homes.’ 

Videos can be self-recorded, but help is available from Geraint Collingridge, who can arrange a slot with ThinkAV for professional AV support. Entries should include a description of the service and team, as well mentioning who will act as presenter.

'Great examples' of care, despite 'patchy' provision

The BGS promotes the role of proactive care in helping older people to live healthy, independent lives for as long as possible. It states: ‘We know that providing rehabilitation when someone has been discharged from hospital is vital in helping them recover and regain strength to do the things they did before. As well as improving health outcomes, it reduces the likelihood of readmission and saves the NHS money.

'We know that there are significant workforce shortages which prevent older people from receiving the rehab they need. Although the provision of rehab is patchy across the UK, there are nevertheless great examples. Please help us to find them and illustrate what it is possible to achieve!'

The BGS has made a strategic commitment to promoting better rehabilitation for older people, and welcomes case studies that will help it make the case for investment in this vital area.

Submit videos to g.collingridge@bgs.org.uk by 31 May.