College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

In the context of joint assessment for an elderly patient, which is the most relevant factor to consider when creating a treatment plan?

1. The patient's age and mobility level

2. The financial status of the patient

3. The profession of the patient

4. The patient’s dietary habits

The correct answer is: The patient's age and mobility level

When creating a treatment plan for an elderly patient, the most relevant factor to consider is the patient's age and mobility level. Elderly individuals often experience specific health challenges, such as decreased range of motion, muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and an increased risk of falls. These factors significantly influence the design of an appropriate treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and limitations. Understanding the patient's age helps in recognizing age-related conditions like osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint diseases, which frequently affect the elderly population. Additionally, their mobility level is crucial in determining the type and intensity of interventions that would be safe and effective. For example, a patient with significant mobility issues may benefit from gentler, more supportive treatments, while someone with better mobility might be able to tolerate more active interventions. The other factors, while potentially relevant in some contexts, do not directly impact the immediate requirements for safe and effective joint assessment and treatment in the same way as mobility and age. Financial status and dietary habits might play a role in a broader treatment plan or long-term care approach, and the profession of the patient could influence their lifestyle choices; however, these are not as critical in the context of joint assessment itself.