Prior to giving clearance for an older adult to take part in an exercise regimen, the ____ assessment tool should be used by the clinician

Question

A. Get up and go
B. Tinetti scale
C. PARmed-X
D. PAR-Q

Answer 1

ANS: C
Older adults are increasingly turning to exercise for socialization and fitness, and this trend should be supported. The question always arises: How much screening and assessment should be conducted prior to initiating an exercise program? The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology has developed a useful evidence-based, seven-question screening tool, the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) for screening adults up to age 69 (2002). The recommendation for those over age 69 who are not accustomed to being active is to consult with a health-care provider prior to initiating a formal exercise program. The questions on the PAR-Q require a yes or no response; any response of yes requires further screening by a health-care provider. There is a companion form, the PARmed-X, for the clinician to complete prior to the individual beginning a formal exercise program. The PARmed-X includes a clearance as well as suggestions for special prescriptions for conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. There are relatively few absolute contraindications to exercise listed on the PARmed-X; they include acute infectious processes, dissecting aortic aneurysm, severe aortic stenosis, active or recent myocarditis, acute myocardial infarction or heart failure, and acute thrombotic or embolic processes. Once any acute illness is resolved, the adult should be rescreened and allowed to exercise to tolerance.