The Geriatric Patient: The Chiropractor’s Role in Evaluation and Management
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Chiropractors are important in the evaluation and management of geriatric patients. This includes recognizing risk factors and determining which patients need further evaluation and/or trigger a comprehensive geriatric evaluation. Since comprehensive evaluation is time consuming, presenters will review how the examination can be broken down over a number of visits. Most importantly, chiropractors should assess functional status and fall risk. This presentation will review the important components of the examination process, as well as the SPLAT questionnaire. It will also focus specifically on fall assessments. A few of the tests reviewed will be Berg Balance, 30-Second Chair Stand, Timed Up and Go and Reach Test. Finally, we will review common exercises that can be used to improve resistance and balance.
Kristy Carbonelli, DC
Parker University
Kristy Carbonelli, DC is the department chair of basic sciences at Parker University, where she leads faculty across foundational science disciplines and oversees critical teaching environments, including the Gross Anatomy Lab and the Willed Body Program. Her leadership centers on strong curriculum design, student support, and preparing future chiropractors to deliver care that is both effective and compassionate.
From 2005 to 2017, Dr. Carbonelli served patients in private practice before transitioning into academia as a clinic faculty doctor from 2017 to 2019. These experiences continue to inform her of her commitment to bridging education with the practical realities of patient care and professional sustainability.
A certified trainer in trauma-informed care, Dr. Carbonelli’s scholarship and teaching emphasize how communication, environment, and policy influence a patient’s sense of safety and engagement. She redesigned the Business of Chiropractic course at Parker to ensure students graduate with the tools to build operationally sound, patient-focused practices that support personal and professional well-being.
Dr. Carbonelli serves as president of the Faculty American Chiropractic Association (FACA) and as faculty advisor to the Student ACA (SACA), helping strengthen advocacy, leadership, and professional development within the chiropractic community. She presents nationally on trauma-informed approaches and innovation in chiropractic education.
Her work is grounded in a clear belief: When we intentionally design how we show up, communicate, and structure care, patients benefit and providers thrive. A compassionate practice is not accidental; it is built thoughtfully from the start.
Camille McClendon, DC
Parker University
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