Physical Therapist Assistant Program Hosting Clinic to Help Individuals Lead Safer, Active Lives

The Sinclair Community College Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program will host a special clinic aimed at empowering community members to lead safer, more active lives. The falls prevention program, entitled A Matter of Balance, is being presented in partnership with Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley. A Matter of Balance is an evidence-based program, created by Maine Health, that has been shown to reduce fall risk and fear of falling in older adults. This program, led by Sinclair’s PTA faculty, will offer vital information to participants while providing essential education for students.

The clinic is free and open to the public and will be held over an 8-week period in the Ned J. Sifferlen Health Sciences Center (Building 14) at Sinclair’s Dayton campus. Individuals who sign up will meet each Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to noon beginning October 22 through December 10, 2024.

Participants in Sinclair’s Falls Prevention Clinic will learn to: 

• View falls as controllable
• Set goals for increasing activity
• Make changes to reduce fall risks at home
• Exercise to increase strength and balance

“Exposing our Physical Therapist Assistant students to fall prevention education is crucial not only for their professional development but also for the well-being of our community. By participating in the Falls Prevention Clinic, our students gain experience working with older adults, learn how to reduce fall risks, and understand the importance of giving back to the community. This approach not only strengthens their skills but also reinforces the vital role they will play in enhancing the quality of life for others," said Professor Debra Belcher, Sinclair Community College PTA Program.

Space is limited for the clinic. For more information or to register for the Falls Prevention Clinic, contact Heather Stone: Heather.Stone@Sinclair.edu.

Sinclair offers an Associate of Applied Science Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) degree. PTAs work under the direction and supervision of licensed physical therapists and assist patients with therapeutic and rehabilitative procedures. PTAs work in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and schools. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of physical therapist assistants and aides is projected to grow 19% through the year 2032. Approximately 24,300 openings for physical therapist assistants and aides are projected each year. As of last year, the median annual wage for physical therapist assistants was $64,080.

“Sinclair’s PTA students are receiving the essential skills needed to step into rewarding careers where they earn a living-wage salary. The combination of rigorous hands-on education and dedicated faculty ensures that our students are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities," added Belcher.

Over the past five years, more than 100 students have completed Sinclair’s PTA Program.

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