It's no secret... working with dementia patients can be difficult. And beyond the challenge of memory loss, as their movement expert, you also have to learn to navigate behavioral challenges, decreased safety awareness, difficulty communicating, confusion and disorientation, hallucinations, etc.

 

Here's what's even more challenging:

 

Our first instincts are not always the best treatment strategies…

 

But, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can transform challenging moments into patient (and personal) victories, keep patients moving safely, and improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement.

 

This seminar led by Certified Dementia Practitioner Virginia Simmons, CTRS, CDP, CADDCT, CFRDT, founder of Living Active Dementia, can help you gain those skills.

 

Plus, become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) after course completion! Read more…

The purpose of this brief survey is to gauge interest in and direction for the newly formed Early Professionals Special Interest Group within APTA Virginia.

 

Creating a space for mentorship, discussing career development and professional issues, raising public awareness of the profession, and fostering a community for new grads and early professionals is the goal.

 

Active APTA Virginia members who are less than 5 years post-graduation are eligible to participate.

 

The expansion of direct access in Virginia has new implications for pediatric PTs in the commonwealth. On July 1, 2023, children receiving physical therapy services under IDEA Parts B and C (school-based and early intervention), and services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will not need a referral for services. Thank you to all the pediatric PTs in the state who participated in advocacy efforts to move the legislation forward! And a special thanks to the APTA Virginia Legislative Committee for collaborating with the Peds SIG and its members.

 

Until July 1, PTs still must obtain referrals for children under Part C (early intervention) and Section 504.

 

Additionally, PTs still must meet the educational requirements for direct access as outlined in the Virginia Regulations Governing the Practice of Physical Therapy. PTs with an entry-level DPT have direct access privileges. Those with a transitional DPT must apply to the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy, submit their official transcript, and obtain approval from the board. Direct access can also be obtained by PTs bachelor’s or master’s preparation after 3 years of practice, and by completing 15 hours of continuing education that includes medical screening and differential diagnosis, with an application and approval by the board. Please refer to the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy website for all details.