Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy APTA Invests 100k to Expand FPTR Research Funding

The $100,000 contribution will grow the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research (FPTR) Geriatric Fund to now support scholarships beginning immediately. Applications are now being accepted.

The Academy of Geriatrics Physical Therapy (Academy) is expanding the Geriatric Fund with the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research (FPTR). In addition to continuing to support research grants, the Academy will now also support dedicated Post Professional Doctoral Studies (PODS) I and II scholarships through a $100,000 gift.

“Our research funding would not be possible without our Partners who continue to support innovation across all PT specialties,” said FPTR President, Paul Rockar, Jr., PT, DPT, MS, FAPTA. “FPTR and the Academy of Geriatrics share a common objective in increasing research funding for the future of the profession. Thanks to this synergized partnership, we will be able to fund much-needed evidence and data to improve rehabilitative outcomes in the aging adult population.”

The Academy’s Geriatric Research Fund was established in 1995. In 2017, the Academy further grew this fund with a $50,000 donation. Currently, the Geriatric Fund supports FPTR research grants related for the treatment of aging adults.

Starting with the 2022 PODS Cycle, the Fund will now also start supporting scholarship funding for the same purpose. The Academy anticipates funding a PODS I and II Scholarship each year.

“Evidence is the future of what we do and how we deliver the best care for patients,” said Academy President Cathy Ciolek, PT, DPT, FAPTA. “These scholarships will help meet an urgent need in geriatric research that will continue to yield results for the profession for the next 100 years.”

The Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy was established in 1978 and has more than 5,000 members who work to address the critical needs of physical therapy practitioners working with older adults in a range of practice settings by empowering adults to move, engage and live well.