Course Description
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions in older people, and its impact on mobility, comfort and independence can be profound. For those working with older people, having a sound understanding of this condition is vital. Care staff play a crucial role in recognising the signs, responding to the challenges and providing the right support. Without the right knowledge, osteoarthritis can easily go unnoticed or unmanaged, leading to unnecessary pain, emotional distress and a decline in overall quality of life.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, the learner should be able to:
* Define osteoarthritis
* Describe the risk factors for osteoarthritis
* Recognise signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis
* Identify physical and psychological impacts of osteoarthritis in older people
* Explain management options for osteoarthritis
Course Code:
AOC17264-B-H-AUCPD Points:
0.5Course Availability:
Available NowTopics:
ConditionsLibrary:
Home CareCollection:
Care & ClinicalSubject Matter Expert:
Prof. Newman L. Harris
Prof. Newman L. Harris is a medical specialist with formal training in Rehabilitation Medicine, Psychiatry, and Pain Medicine. He held a long-standing position at the University of Sydney’s Pain Management and Research Institute and has more recently contributed to Griffith University on the Gold Coast. A/Prof Harris completed his medical degree at UNSW, receiving the Foundation Year Graduates Medal in 1984. He was later awarded a fellowship by the NSW Institute of Psychiatry to explore psychiatric aspects of pain under Prof Michael Cousins AO and went on to complete a Master’s in Pain Medicine at Sydney University. He holds dual fellowships with the Faculty of Pain Medicine (FPMANZCA) and the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP).
A/Prof Harris has served in numerous leadership and advisory roles, including nine years on the FPMANZCA Board, four of which he spent as Chair of Examinations. He has also held positions with Pain Australia, the Australian Pain Society, and the RANZCP. He continues to contribute to regulatory and advisory bodies in NSW. In 2025, he received the Robert Orton Medal—the highest honour from the Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists—for his distinguished service to Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine. From 2000 to 2020, he played a key role in Sydney Medical School’s postgraduate Pain Management program before joining Griffith University.
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