CHP hosts geriatric physical therapy certification course
In the past year, the Department of Physical Therapy at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth hosted both a hybrid and a traditional certification course in geriatric exercise, showcasing its commitment to improving the quality of life for aging adults through physical therapy. The hybrid version of the American Physical Therapy Association Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults course drew 40 participants and five instructors from across the U.S., including licensed physical therapists and HSC’s own faculty and students. During weekend onsite courses, both first- and second-year Doctor of Physical Therapy students volunteered to help, serving as assistants and even acting as simulated patients in lab exercises.
The events marked a significant opportunity for students to observe seasoned physical therapists refining their skills in caring for older adults, a population with unique health needs and challenges. The courses were also an opportunity for faculty members to grow their knowledge.
“The reason I pursued this certification was to ensure my content knowledge is current and that I’m teaching students in the most effective way possible,” said Dr. Brandy Schwarz, the Department of Physical Therapy’s director of hybrid academic education and associate professor. “It enhances faculty expertise, and in turn, benefits students as they prepare to work with this population.”
The APTA Geriatrics organization is a national leader in promoting best practices in physical therapy for older adults. Its certification courses focus on developing exercise programs specifically tailored to this demographic, emphasizing safety, function and improving quality of life. With an increasing aging population, the demand for specialized care and expertise in geriatric physical therapy is more crucial than ever. Schwarz emphasized that students observing the course gain valuable insight into geriatrics. “It may spark their interest in working with aging adults while giving them the chance to see real-world applications of appropriately dosed, evidence-based exercise,” Schwarz said.
The hands-on nature of the courses left a lasting impression on second-year DPT student Stacia Porter, who began volunteering at this event as a first-year student. “I realized that active PTs who have been doing this for years still come back to further their education to become more competent practitioners,” Porter shared. “It’s pretty cool to see them apply what we’ve learned in class to real cases. Every time the event comes around, I volunteer because it reinforces what we’re learning in our studies.”
First-year DPT student Liberty Hipp was similarly inspired by the experience, particularly as she played the role of a simulated patient during lab exercises. “Being the patient was a powerful learning experience,” Hipp said. “It gave me insight into what they go through and reminded me how much our role is about putting patients at the forefront of our work.”
Hipp, who aspires to work with the geriatric population, found it eye-opening to see licensed physical therapists from around the country come together to refine their skills in a specialized, high-risk area. “It was inspiring to see that even those who have been in the field for years are still committed to growth and improvement.”
Porter added that working alongside Dr. Myles Quiben strengthened her confidence in her education and career choice. “It’s encouraging to know I’m in the right place, with great mentors who are deeply invested in both their students and the field,” Porter said.
Quiben, who serves as an instructor for the courses, emphasized the importance of continuing education for physical therapists at all stages of their careers. “Courses like this ensure that therapists are not only providing the best care but are also challenging outdated norms when it comes to working with aging adults,” Quiben said. “There’s still a tendency to underestimate what older adults can accomplish, and this course aims to change that mindset.”
The successful hosting of the APTA Geriatrics CEEAA courses exemplifies UNTHSC’s dedication to developing competent and compassionate physical therapists equipped to address the complex needs of an aging population. By fostering such collaborative learning opportunities, HSC continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in health professions education.
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