Consider these numbers: In 1990, 31.1 million Americans were 65 years of age or older. By 2020, the elderly population is projected to increase to 54 million persons. In 2050, the elderly population will number about 79 million.

The U.S. Department of Labor recently released projections showing that the job of physical therapists is expected to grow 27% over the next 10 years, largely because of the elderly sector. Since the baby-boom generation is entering the prime age for heart attacks and strokes, the demand for cardiac and physical rehabilitation will also increase.


"As we see aging baby boomers and their parents accelerate the graying of America, studies confirm that balance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness contribute greatly to the quality and duration of life," says Ed Kalotkin, a physical therapist in Palisades, NY. "Exercise by seniors can prevent osteoporosis, increase bone density and prevent adult diabetes."

Hayward adds that several vendors, such as Nautilus, HUR and Cateye are developing easier access to equipment so seniors and handicap patients can utilize more of the exercise equipment in the clinics.

Other growth areas for therapy are more clinical, such as gate training, partial amp and plank technology.

IT Advancements

The evolution of IT technology means more powerful, expansive tools as more companies are using the power of technology to provide physical therapists with highly advanced assessment methods, tools for pinpointing problems, and areas to focus on in training.

"Walking is an activity taken for granted, but it's the ultimate sign of independent mobility. Stroke survivors often face barriers to walking on their own and the trouble often derives from neurological and musculoskeletal problems affecting their gait and balance," says Maui Agoncillo, president of Morigon Technologies, which provides asset management programs to hospitals and health care facilities. "Motion analysis and capture is a technology formerly reserved for highly scientific studies, but increasingly, PTs are recognizing its power for stroke therapy."

Motion Analysis Corp. based in Santa Rosa, Calif., has built an industry reputation for leading the motion capture field, providing real-time optical motion capture systems for therapists, researchers, and even the movie industry. The Motion Analysis systems acquire, analyze, and display 3D motion data on patients as they walk. The resulting video and images can help PTs analyze gait and function, and determine appropriate next steps.

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