The annual event not only gives participants information on how to reduce the risk of a fall, it also gives students in the College of Education, Nursing, and Health Professions a chance to practice their skills right in UHart’s community.
"With nearly one in four older adults experiencing a fall each year, community-based screening events like this play an essential role in early identification, education, and prevention,” said event founder Christy Ross, clinical and applied assistant professor of physical therapy in UHart’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences.
Since the first memory and balance screening event two years ago, physical therapy students and faculty have screened about 115 older adults. The results highlighted a significant need. 51% of participants were at an increased fall risk, based on their performance on at least one of the tests. About 20% of the people screened were found to have a cognitive concern that warranted a follow-up with their primary care doctor.
David Drew ’27, Physical Therapy, College of Education, Nursing and Health ProfessionsThere was a strong sense of mutual appreciation. The participants were genuinely excited to be around the students, and we valued their willingness to engage and work with us.
“Our students dedicate an incredible amount of time and effort in the classroom, so it’s especially rewarding to see them apply their learning in the community,” said research coordinator Jen Bergeron. “It’s been inspiring to watch them recognize that their work truly matters, and that they each have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on others’ lives.”
Doctor of Physical Therapy students who participated agree. “It was great to have the chance to apply things we are learning over the course of the semester, not only to a real-life situation, but a community event that has the potential to help real people,” said Katie Nello ’27.
“The experience helped to reinforce the importance of community engagement and fall prevention in geriatric care,” said Pooja Parikh ’27. “It helped strengthen our understanding of our role as future physical therapists, and how we can promote healthy aging outside a typical clinical setting.”
Participants received copies of their balance, foot, and cognitive assessments to share with their health care providers, along with information on home safety, community programs, and tools to support overall well-being.
“There was a strong sense of mutual appreciation,” said David Drew ’27. “The participants were genuinely excited to be around the students, and we valued their willingness to engage and work with us.”