Improving Functional Abilities in Older Adults
Improving Functional Abilities in Older Adults
Which are the most effective training programs for your mature clients, and how can you best assess their current level of functional ability?
By Cody Sipe, MS
T
The number of people now approaching middle age in America is simply astonishing–and unprecedented in history. It is anticipated that the U.S. population of adults over the age of 65 will more than double by the year 2030–reaching an estimated 71 million people (U.S. Census Bureau 2004). According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 27% of adults between the ages of 65 and 74 have difficulty with, or are unable to perform, at least one basic activity of daily living (National Center for Health Statistics [NCHS] 2006). That number climbs to 44% for adults aged 75 and older (NCHS 2006). In addition, it is estimated that 22%
Cody Sipe, PhD
Cody Sipe, PhD, is a respected authority on fitness for older adults with 25 years in the industry. He is a professor, researcher, international educator and co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute. Cody is currently an associate professor and director of clinical research in the doctoral physical therapy program at Harding University. He was recognized as the IDEA Program Director of the Year in 2005 and was a finalist for the IDEA Fitness Innovator of the Year award in 2019.
