The GW occupational therapy program hosted Fall Prevention Awareness Day with the Department of Aging and Community Living in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, September 19. Second-year students educated older adults on fall prevention tips, conducted blood pressure checks, and provided exercise demonstrations.
“It was actually really fun and I think the visitors had a good time too, especially when they had their competitions with grip strength. It was adorable,” said Quenita Simms.
Students received credit for service learning as a part of their course, Occupational Therapy for Adult Rehabilitation, for developing their skills on fall prevention, strength, vision, and vital screenings.
“Some of these screenings can be indicative of increased risk of fall, so helping to make those adjustments so community dwelling individuals can stay at home as long as they like is very valuable. We simulate a lot, but to be able to meaningfully practice these skills and contribute to our community members– that's part of our mission.”
The GW OT program prepares graduates to become leaders with a commitment to ensuring occupational justice and inclusive engagement in society. Second-year OT student, Maya Chavez, emphasized the importance of learning about different populations in society to permit engagement in society as she said, “I've never worked with older adults or geriatrics, so it's a very different environment and you do very different things with them.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity for students” said associate professor of physician assistant studies, Tamara Ritsema, PhD, MPH, MMSc, PA-C.
