𝐒𝐏𝐂-𝐏𝐓 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐆𝐀𝐃 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤

San Pedro College’s Physical Therapy (SPC-PT) Department celebrated World PT Day, promoting wellness for older adults and women through a series of activities and presentations at the main campus on Sept. 8.

Stressing a different theme each year, the observance called for prevention of frailty and falls, a matter delivered by Theya Monica Tablante, a physician and physical therapist.

As frailty is a syndrome with a criteria set forth by the American Academy of Family Physicians, Tablante clarified that frailty is not a normal result of aging and that it is a preventable complication through exercise.

“With the correct support, our older adults can stay active, independent, and engage in life,” the speaker encouraged.

Tablante suggested monitoring vision and hearing problems, wearing safe shoes, using assistive devices properly, ensuring safe surroundings, and consulting rehabilitation specialists which are key to lowering fall risks.

Caitlyn Oliveros, a physical therapist practicing in the United States, followed with a lecture on women’s pelvic health, presented in partnership with SPC’s Committee on Gender and Development (GAD).

“Usually it’s related to aging, but pelvic floor issues are easily disguised in everyday activities,” she said.

Oliveros asked the audience to visualize important women in their lives marked by difficulties with bearing weight, movement, and posture, while noting that such conditions can also affect men.

“To advocate for patient care [means] speaking up for someone who may not be able to talk about their issues [themselves],” the speaker shared.

In the afternoon, activities extended to the PT laboratories, where interns and third-year students demonstrated concepts, equipment, and specializations with a gallery walk.

Department-wide participation was also drawn from the motorcade, flash mob and an amazing race.

World PT Day concluded with the first general assembly of the Association of Physical Therapy Students (APTS), where officers outlined plans for the academic year.

Celebrated in solidarity across the globe, this year also served as the 74th anniversary of the founding of World Physiotherapy in 1951.

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