Osteosarcopenia is a huge threat to independence in older people

The world’s population is ageing and common chronic diseases affecting older people, such as osteoporosis and sarcopenia, place a significant burden on the individual as well as the healthcare system.

Sarcopenia was only recently included in the International Standard Classification of Diseases (ICD-10-Clinical Modification).

Osteosarcopenia, a combination of osteoporosis and sarcopenia, is characterised by a synchronic loss of bone mineral density and muscle mass, strength, and function which threatens the independence of older people.

Although healthcare professionals may be aware of the importance of fall prevention in older people, the newness of sarcopenia and osteosarcopenia means these conditions are rarely diagnosed and risks identified for falls and fractures.

This highly interactive course, Osteosarcopenia: Preventing falls and fractures, was developed in collaboration with the University of Melbourne’s Mobile Learning Unit, and e-learning modules are accessible across any smart device, including a mobile phone, tablet, or computer.

Aimed at primary healthcare physicians and allied health professionals, this course includes six tutorials for obtaining knowledge and skills, readily assimilated into daily clinical practice, in osteoporosis, sarcopenia and osteosarcopenia.

Topics covered include:

  • Bone and muscle biology
  • Pathophysiology of osteoporosis and sarcopenia
  • Risk factors and clinical assessment
  • Diagnostic methods
  • Treatment options

There are 12 interactive case studies and the course can be progressed or suspended, when necessary, to balance learning with other commitments.

For more information http://mdhs-study.unimelb.edu.au/short-courses/mms-short-courses/osteosarcopenia-preventing-falls-and-fractures-in-older-persons/overview

Contact Dr Sharon Brennan-Olsen +61 3 8395 8114 or +61 433 723 203 or sbrennan@unimelb.edu.au.

  • Professional Development