When an older person calls triple zero after a fall, it’s often the start of a long hospital journey. A groundbreaking program in Queensland is proving that this no longer has to be the case. Melissa Mitchell talks to senior physiotherapist Natalie Davis to learn more.

Researchers from the University of Exeter and collaborators across the UK and Australia analysed data from the BOOST trial, a major physiotherapy study that tested a 12-week program for older adults with painful walking due to lumbar spinal stenosis. Lead author Dr Lianne Wood and author Dr Esther Williamson agreed to answer some questions about the research.

In a health system under increasing pressure, physiotherapy is too often seen as a discretionary service—an optional extra—rather than a foundational pillar of the health system.

A recent recipient of The Nancy Low Choy Memorial Gerontology / Neurology PRF Seeding Grant is investigating the development of clinical practice guidelines for physiotherapy in dementia.

PD BRIEFS The APA runs a significant number of professional development courses throughout the year, both face-to-face and online. Here are some highlights among the upcoming courses.

BRANCH EVENT From personal risk to public health crisis—Professor Cathy Said is on a mission to reframe how we think about and prevent falls. Marina Williams reports.

Watching his grandmother’s fear of falling drastically limit her quality of life had a deep impact on Sam Suke. His grandmother’s apprehension, which led to a decline in mobility and independence, set Sam on a path to helping others in his community. During April Falls Month, Sam opens up about his physiotherapy journey and his commitment as a physiotherapist to serving humanity.

Ann Rahmann is helping set a new standard in physiotherapy for older adults. She discusses how physiotherapists can shape healthcare in Australia.

Every day, physiotherapists face the challenge of safely assisting patients in diverse and unpredictable situations. A new webinar series continuing in 2025 aims to fill critical knowledge gaps, equipping practitioners with strategies to protect themselves and their patients.

Happy New Year. I hope you’ve enjoyed a refreshing break over the summer and are recharged for the challenges of 2025.