The pages that follow contain six case studies developed to assist students in allied health professions (particularly, but not limited to, occupational and physical therapy) learn about working with older adults. The cases reflect various sites where service might be provided. These include service by:

There is an additional link to materials specifically for instructors. At that link, instructors will find two more cases that can be used for assessment purposes, rather than instruction. As we use materials in class, we will be adding information about exercises and other experiences that seem to work particularly effectively in class and clinical settings.

You will find several mechanisms for navigating through the cases. Each page lists the main categories of information along the left-hand side. Clicking on any of these will bring up a list of items you can explore in that area of the treatment process. The list is organized based on the steps in developing and implementing treatment, with particular emphasis on interdisciplinary interaction and on working with individuals from minority or underserved cultural groups. You can also use the "back" button.

On many pages you will find video clips that enable you to view the person's movement patterns, hear his or her own words, and get a sense of what matters most to him or her. You will need the most current version of RealPlayer to view the videos. It can be downloaded for free, and the link to do this is provided.

You will also find links to other websites that elaborate on particular information. For example, there are links to sites describing evaluation tools, or elaborating on cultural beliefs.

This content of these pages has been developed by Bette Bonder, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, with assistance from Corinne Russell. Other individuals who have had significant input include: Beth Ekelman, J.D., OTR/L, Glenn Goodman, Ph.D., OTR/L, Paul Sung, Ph.D., PT, Mary Milidonis, Ph.D., PT, Michele Abraham, LSSW, Kathie Judge, Ph.D., Maureen McQuestion, Caryn Eucker. We are particularly grateful to the individuals who were willing to share their stories, and to the Western Reserve Geriatric Education Center, Benjamin Rose Institute, Eliza Bryant Village, and Hispanic Senior Center for their assistance in identifying such interesting and remarkable individuals. Elizabeth Meacham has done the web development required for this site, with assistance from the Cleveland State University Instructional Media Service. Bruce Jeppesen and Al Nozak deserve special thanks.

The project was funded by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration Bureau of Health Professions grant number D37HP03155-01-00.