CE197: Building Resilience: Physical Therapy Strategies for Osteoporosis in Aging

This course will explore the pathophysiology of osteoporosis, its impact on bone health, and the role physical therapy plays in building resilience in the aging populations. Participants will learn evidence-based strategies to assess functional status, design safe and effective exercise programs that promote bone density and reduce fall risk. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, physical therapists will be equipped with the tools to develop individualized care plans that address strength, balance, posture and mobility.

The course will also emphasize the importance of patient education, including lifestyle modifications and self-care strategies, to empower individuals in managing their osteoporosis. In addition, the role of a multidisciplinary approach in optimizing care will be discussed, providing participants with insights into collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

Whether you're looking to refresh your knowledge or deepen your expertise, this course will provide you with the essential skills to support older adults in building resilience against the challenges of osteoporosis.

Date & Time

November 5, 2025 from 7 - 9 p.m. ET

Location

Synchronous on Zoom

Cost

$100 Clinician/$20 DPT Student

• Register Online & Pay by Credit Card
• Register Online & Pay by Check or Voucher

CEHs

2

Objectives

• Explain the mechanisms of osteoporosis and its impact on bone health in the aging population.
• Recognize common risk factors for osteoporosis.
• Describe effective screening tools for functional status and fracture risk in older adults.
• Develop evidence-based, individualized physical therapy plans that incorporate weight-bearing, resistance and balance exercises to enhance bone density and reduce fall risk in older adults with osteoporosis.
• Educate patients on osteoporosis management, including lifestyle modifications, nutritional considerations and self-care practices, to complement physical therapy interventions and promote long-term resilience.

Presenters

Leigh Ronald PT, DPT, GCS, CEEAA

Leigh is a Clinical Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Clinical Education at Sacred Heart University. Previously, Leigh has worked at SHU as a tutorial leader/senior tutor, lab instructor, and elective course instructor. Her area of specialty practice is with older adults, and she is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy and Certified Exercise Expert for the Aging Adult. She has presented at the state level in topics on geriatric PT and clinical education curricula. Her clinical experience is with older adults and individuals with neurological conditions spans the continuum and focuses on evidenced-based physical therapy evaluation and intervention, high-intensity functional training, and anti-ageist practice. Additionally, she serves as Director at Large on the APTA CT Board of Directors, programming chair for the APTA CT Geriatric SIG, and Co-State Advocate for APTA Geriatrics. Leigh has a passion for teaching and learning specifically in the area of clinical education curricula and has developed a comprehensive clinical education curriculum utilized in both inpatient and outpatient clinical settings and is a Level 1 and 2 APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor.

Suzanne Rodriguez PT, DPT, MS, GCS, GTCCS, LSVT

Suzanne is a Clinical Physical Therapist and Director of the Geriatric Residency Program at Sacred Heart University. Suzanne has worked at Sacred Heart as an adjunct since 2009 as a tutorial leader/senior tutor, lab instructor, and online instructor in the Geriatric Health and Wellness program. Suzanne is a member of the Geriatric section of the APTA and serves as a co-chair of the Geriatric Special Interest Group for APTA CT and as a Co-State Advocate for APTA Geriatrics. Suzanne is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy and a Geriatric Trained and Certified Clinical Specialist. Suzanne has served as a member for the Specialized Academy of Content Experts in the area of Geriatrics for the ABPTS. She has presented at the state level in topics of Geriatric physical therapy. Suzanne is an instructor for a Geriatrics elective at Sacred Heart University. Suzanne is a graduate of a Geriatric Residency Program and has worked across multiple settings including: acute care, acute rehab, sub-acute care, long-term care, home care, outpatient, and home-based outpatient.