Blood, along with colleagues from Lebanon Valley College and Slippery Rock University, is the author of “Current state of entry-level geriatric physiotherapy curriculum in Kenya,” an open-access original research article published August 26, in the Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy.

The study examines how entry-level physiotherapy programs in Kenya prepare students to assess and treat older adults and identifies areas where additional geriatric education may be needed.

The researchers surveyed 177 Kenyan physiotherapists and physiotherapy students and found that while topics such as stroke, osteoporosis and fracture risk were commonly addressed, other important areas—including pharmacology, nutritional status, elder abuse and elder self-neglect—were less frequently incorporated into the curriculum. Participants who had completed a dedicated geriatric physiotherapy course were also more likely to report feeling prepared to work with older adults.

The research comes as Kenya’s population continues to age, creating an increasing need for health professionals prepared to address the complex needs of older adults. The findings provide a foundation for educators and professional organizations to evaluate and strengthen entry-level geriatric physiotherapy education.

For Blood, the work reflects a broader commitment to elevating geriatric physiotherapy around the world. Her collaboration with colleagues and physiotherapy educators in Kenya highlights the importance of international partnerships in identifying educational gaps and developing strategies to better prepare clinicians to serve growing older-adult populations.

Building on this work, Blood is currently collaborating with the Jackson Foundation on a new curriculum for Kenyan-trained physiotherapists designed to advance their practice in adult rehabilitation.

She is also developing a network of partnerships with other African nations to expand access to virtual educational sessions, creating opportunities for physiotherapists across the continent to engage in ongoing professional learning and share knowledge across borders.

The study represents an important step toward strengthening geriatric physiotherapy education—not only in Kenya, but as part of a larger global effort to ensure that.