Abstract
Purpose: This article examines the role of interprofessional collaboration between Physical Therapy (PT) and Behavioral Health (BH) services in identifying and supporting elderly individuals at risk of self-neglect. Through a case study, we explore the benefits of integrating interprofessional collaboration and APS reporting processes into PT practice.
Problem: Self-neglect among older adults is a critical public health issue often overlooked in healthcare settings. PTs, as mandated reporters, frequently encounter patients exhibiting signs of self-neglect but may lack training in psychosocial and cognitive assessment skills necessary for effective intervention.
Significance: Interprofessional collaboration enables PTs to address both physical and psychosocial risk factors, which are essential in preventing further deterioration of health in elderly patients. Engaging BH professionals brings valuable expertise in identifying psychological concerns, thus facilitating a more comprehensive and effective approach to care.
Implications: By adopting interdisciplinary strategies, PTs can make well-informed APS referrals, enhancing patient safety. This collaboration also highlights the need to expand PT education to include psychosocial assessment and APS reporting protocols, thereby strengthening future practice standards.
Conclusion: The case study illustrates how PT-BH collaboration can improve patient care outcomes by addressing complex health issues in elderly patients. Incorporating these interdisciplinary practices in PT education and clinical settings is essential for fostering a holistic, patient-centered approach to managing self-neglect, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and patient safety.
Recommended Citation
Stamas, A., Sio, F., Thomasian, J., Jansen, K., & Klausing, M. R. (2025). Enhancing Physical Therapy Practice through Interprofessional Collaboration: Addressing Elderly Self-Neglect via PT and Behavioral Health Integration. Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration, 5(2). Retrieved from https://repository.ulm.edu/ojihp/vol5/iss2/2
