Join the Healthy Aging Physical Therapy Team

Okay, time for some real talk.

The healthcare world right now? Let’s call it what it is: a bit of a disaster. Therapists are overworked, underpaid, and often put in situations where they can’t do their best work. Add inflation and Medicare cuts to the mix, and it’s not just clinicians who are struggling - practice owners are feeling the squeeze too.

But what if there’s a better way? What if there’s a practice out there committed to addressing these issues head-on? That’s what we’ve built at Healthy Aging Physical Therapy.

Why Healthy Aging Physical Therapy is Different

1. Beating Burnout

We’ve worked hard to create an environment that supports our therapists. Our full-time caseload is only six patient visits a day. That’s it. This allows you to actually breathe during your day and deliver the high-quality care your patients deserve.

We’ve also streamlined documentation with thorough but efficient systems, using elaborate quick texts and templates. These tools save time without sacrificing quality. We’re equally focused on patient and therapist satisfaction because, honestly, you can’t have one without the other. Happy therapists = happy patients - and we take happiness seriously around here.

2. Support and Collaboration

At Healthy Aging PT, you’re not alone. Our team thrives on collaboration, celebrating victories together and supporting one another through challenges. Whether it’s mentorship, ongoing education, certification opportunities, or equipment - we’ve got your back. Our number one goal is to help you grow and thrive.

3. Financial Stability and Growth

We’re realistic about the financial challenges in healthcare, but we’re also forward-thinking. We’ve diversified our income streams with our Wellness 365 program, a cash-based service that not only provides incredible value to our patients but also offsets the decline in insurance reimbursements. This approach ensures sustainability for our practice and sets us apart as a leader in innovative care.

For our staff, we’ve reimagined compensation. Instead of the small, insignificant 1-2% annual raises typically offered in healthcare, we share the profits. Each team member receives a percentage of our profits based on hours worked. When we work hard and grow together, we all share in the rewards.

The Result? One Incredible Team

Our approach has created an amazing team culture. Our therapists love what they do, and it shows in both their satisfaction and our patient experience. (Just check out our 59 Five Star Google reviews!)

What Do We Need Now? YOU.

We’re growing, our waitlists are long, and we need exceptional therapists to help us meet the demand. Here’s who we’re looking for:

• Physical Therapists + Occupational Therapists for the Medford/Melrose/Stoneham/Wakefield area.

• Personal Trainers + Massage Therapists opportunities available across all our our service areas!

We need people with the right mix of experience, compassion for the patient experience, and passion for their work. If you’re someone who values ownership of your time, wants better work/life balance, craves true meaning in your work, and loves being part of a supportive team - we want to hear from you.

Our Hiring Process

We take hiring seriously because finding the right fit matters. Here’s how it works:

1. Phone Chat: We’ll schedule a time to chat, so you can be clear from the outset on what what working at Healthy Aging is like, and what the role requires.

2. Shadow Day: Come spend a day with us to see how we work and how you fit with our team.

3. Open Book Policy: I’ll tell you how much I love working here, but clearly, I’m a bit biased;) To make sure you have all the info you need to make the best decision, I’m always happy to connect you with current or even past employees so you can ask the questions you may not feel comfortable asking in the interview.

If you, or someone you know, fits the bill, please reach out. We’re excited to grow our team and provide opportunities for therapists to thrive while making a real impact in our communities and in our patients’ lives.

Ready to chat?

Send your resume and cover letter to Katie@HealthyAgingPT.com and I’ll be in touch soon!

Reflections on my Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program Journey

Written by: Dr. Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist and Owner of Healthy Aging PT

This past fall, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program (10KSB). If you're not familiar, 10KSB is a nationwide initiative funded by Goldman Sachs, taught by Babson College professors, and designed to help small business owners grow their businesses through education, mentorship, and access to resources. The program is application-based, tuition-free, and brings together business owners from diverse industries to learn about the financial management, growth opportunity assessment, and leadership involved with business growth and development. (Curious? You can learn more about the 10KSB Program here.) Over the course of the past several months, I dove deep into every corner of my own business, from financial forecasting to marketing and new product development, and emerged not just a better business owner, but a more confident leader. Here are the five biggest lessons I learned.

1. Being a Business Owner is Actually Really Cool - and More Important Than I Thought

When I started Healthy Aging Physical Therapy, it was all about me—not in a selfish way, but because it was literally just me. It was a way to keep working during the pandemic while balancing homeschooling my two young kids. I started with zip, zero, NO formal business education, no plan, and a lot of trial and error. Over time, I realized that I wasn’t just filling a need for myself - I was meeting a huge unmet need in our community and decided to grow.

But what I learned through 10KSB is that small business owners are a rare breed. Did you know that according to the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy, only about 20% of small businesses survive their first five years? Or that small businesses make up 99.9% of all businesses in the U.S. and employ nearly half of the nation’s workforce? Additionally, 81% of small businesses have no employees, while only 19% employ staff, and of those, about 15% have between 1-10 employees. Healthy Aging Physical Therapy currently has a staff of EIGHTEEN (and looking to hire more!) Those aren’t just statistics - they represent real people, real jobs, and real impact.

Today, Healthy Aging Physical Therapy isn’t just about me anymore. We’re an employer, employing therapists, personal trainers and office management staff who love what they do and have the flexibility for real work-life balance. Walking into 10KSB, I felt like a therapist who happened to own a business. Walking out, I see myself as an entrepreneur, and I’m proud to be contributing to my local economy.

2. It's REALLY Important to Understand Your Numbers

Numbers used to intimidate me. For the first few years, I was in reactive mode - looking at financial data after the fact and making educated guesses about what to do next. The 10KSB program has changed that completely.

Now, I not only understand our financial foundations, but I’ve developed a forecasting model that allows me to proactively adjust factors like our service mix and staffing. Instead of anxiously riding financial waves, I feel confident and in control. I have back up plans, and a rainy day fund. I can spot trends in real time, understand what’s driving them, and take action before problems snowball.

Even more importantly, I’ve learned how our practice fits into the larger healthcare ecosystem. From policy changes to Medicare reimbursement cuts (Medicare reimbursement rates are going down another 2.8% as of 1/1/2025!), I now have the tools to navigate these challenges strategically rather than reactively.

3. I Feel Stronger Than Ever in My Vision for Healthy Aging

The first five years of practice ownership were about experimenting - trying new things, seeing what worked, and learning from what didn’t. Now, I have a clear roadmap for growth.

I’ve learned that being a good therapist isn’t enough. While growth is great, it’s more important for me to find ways to ensure the way we practice stays consistent with my values. To do so, I need to teach these principles effectively to my staff, create systems that ensure consistency, and build structures that support scaling and growth. I’ve gained confidence not only in my mentorship skills but also in my ability to scale without compromising our mission and core values.

While my goal as a therapist has always been to help as many people as I can, this practice has given me the voice and venue to MULTIPLY this in a way I never expected. The 10KSB has given me both confidence and the tools to scale my practice without losing the attention to care, compassion and evidenced-based practice that are so critically important to patient success. 

4. I’ve Learned I’m Not Alone

Running a business can feel incredibly lonely, especially when you didn’t set out to be a business owner in the first place. The stress, anxiety, and excitement of entrepreneurship are hard to describe to anyone who hasn’t lived it. I recently came across a meme that said “Being a business owner is great - you get to choose which 80 hours a week you work!” I laughed out loud because truer words have never been spoken - or meme’d about!

But in my cohort of 44 other business owners (shout-out to Group 2-2-2!), I found my people. We came from vastly different industries - there were water filtration experts, ice cream creators, restaurant owners, marketing experts, and more - but despite our different paths to entrepreneurship, we all share the same struggles - and now we get to celebrate our wins, together.  

Beyond our cohort, I’m now part of a nationwide network of over 14,000 10KSB alumni. That’s an incredible community of support, collaboration, and wisdom that I can lean on for years to come.

5. I Can Do Anything I Set My Mind To

This program was intense. Adding 15+ hours a week of coursework to an already jam-packed schedule was exhausting. But I did it - and have officially earned my Certificate of Entrepreneurship.

Running a private practice in today’s healthcare landscape isn’t easy. The constant threat of Medicare cuts, rising supply costs, and workforce shortages has made me second guess my plan many times over. But I’ve learned that the garden you tend is the garden that grows - it’s a simple analogy, but it’s true.

More importantly, this lesson extends beyond business. It’s about balance - something I’ll be the first to admit I haven’t mastered yet. Behind the business owner who seems to have it all together, there’s also a mom trying to find time to connect with her kids who are too-quickly growing their way out of her house, a wife trying to carve out quality time with her husband, and a human being who needs time for her own health and well-being (which has been largely ignored since August…).

If I could sum up my biggest takeaway from 10KSB, it’s this: I am in control. I can control my time, my business, and my priorities. I do NOT need to live in the ‘reactive’ anymore. The year ahead, and all the years after that, are full of potential - not just for Healthy Aging Physical Therapy, but for me, my family, my health, and my own peace of mind.

Looking Ahead 

This program wasn’t easy, but it was transformative. I’m heading into 2025 with a solid business foundation, a clear plan for growth, and a renewed commitment to balance and well-being.

To my team, my family, and everyone who’s supported me, and been patient with me, along this journey: thank you. And to any small business owners reading this - keep this program in mind. It's a heavy lift, but it’s worthwhile. Here’s to a purposeful and pleasant year ahead - for me, my team, my practice and my family.

Unlocking Cognitive Fitness: 6 Steps to Optimize Brain Health

Written by: Dr. Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist, Owner of Healthy Aging PT

As we age, it’s natural to notice changes in cognitive function—whether it’s misplacing your keys or taking longer to process information. While these changes can feel concerning, there’s plenty you can do to maintain and even improve your brain health. By focusing on building cognitive reserve, you can safeguard your mind and maintain your independence as you age. Think of cognitive reserve as a savings account for your brain. The more reserve you build, the more resilient you are to cognitive challenges.

The great news? Building cognitive fitness is possible at any stage of life, and it starts with these six proven steps.

1. Exercise for Brain Health

Exercise isn’t just for physical fitness—it’s for cognitive fitness, too! Regular physical activity stimulates neurotrophin release, enhances hippocampal neurogenesis, and improves blood flow to the brain, all of which help maintain cognitive function.

• The Science: A National Institute on Aging study found that individuals who exercise 1–4 times weekly reduce their risk of memory decline by 33%.

• Action Step: Engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 150 minutes weekly. Activities like brisk walking, resistance training, or swimming boost brain health and physical well-being. You can check out our list of curated exercise videos for some great (and free!) workouts you can do at home. 

2. Nutrition for Cognitive Health

Your diet plays a critical role in cognitive fitness. Whole-food diets like DASH, Mediterranean, and MIND reduce inflammation and support brain function.

• The Science: According to NIH research, diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are linked to better cognitive outcomes and reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Action Step: Prioritize unprocessed, whole foods. Incorporate brain-boosting foods such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and omega-3-rich fish. For more information about evidenced-based dietary patterns that support cognitive health, I suggest checking out the Harvard School of Public Health’s ‘Nutrition Source’ page. 

3. Sleep and Brain Function

Sleep is essential for brain health, supporting memory consolidation and overall cognitive function.

• The Science: Studies reveal that individuals sleeping 6–8 hours nightly maintain greater grey matter volume, which is crucial for cognitive fitness. Both insufficient and excessive sleep can harm brain health.

• Action Step: Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and free from screens. Aim for a consistent 6–8 hours each night. For some more information, you can download this free E-Book from the NIH about Sleep for Older Adults. We keep these on hand and ready for any of our patients who need help getting their zzzz’s and it is our go-to resource.  

4. Stress Management for Healthy Aging

Chronic stress can damage the brain, but reframing how we view stress makes a big difference. A positive mindset can reduce the negative impact of stress on cognitive health.

• The Science: Research shows that reframing stress reduces its physiological effects, helping maintain cognitive resilience.

• Action Step: Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness, journaling, or meditation. Reframing challenges as opportunities for growth supports both cognitive and emotional well-being. Looking for more? The Free Mindfulness Project has an awesome library of guided meditation and mindfulness exercises available for everyone.  

5. Social Connections and Brain Health

Meaningful social interactions aren’t just good for the soul—they’re essential for cognitive fitness.

• The Science: NIH studies show that loneliness increases the risk of dementia by up to 40%, while maintaining social connections helps preserve brain health.

• Action Step: Strengthen your social network by joining group activities, such as Wellness365, that combine fitness and fun with community-building. Want to hit two birds with one stone? Check out our in-person Group Fitness Classes to get your exercise in while engaging with like-minded peers for the added bonus social connection.

6. Lifelong Learning and Brain Health

Your brain thrives on novelty. Learning new skills, trying different hobbies, and exposing yourself to new experiences keep your mind sharp.

• The Science: NIH-supported studies highlight that engaging in novel activities throughout life helps maintain cognitive reserve and delay decline.

• Action Step: Get curious and commit to trying one new activity each month, whether it’s taking a class, visiting a new place, or trying a new hobby. We are lucky to live in a great area - with the city, the mountains, or the beach all with in an hours drive, there is always a new adventure you can try. Looking for something closer to home? Check out your local Senior Center and Library calendars to see if they have any lectures or workshops that might pique your interest. I’ve linked my hometown’s centers above, but check out the centers closest to you!

Building a Brain-Healthy Lifestyle

Cognitive fitness isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a lifelong commitment. By incorporating exercise, nutrition, quality sleep, stress management, social engagement, and novelty into your routine, you can boost your cognitive reserve and maintain your independence. Through our Wellness365 program, Healthy Aging Physical Therapy provides tailored support to help you achieve these goals. Our program is always individualized to meet your needs, but can include things like supported fitness to build up your physical resilience and support your brain health, nutrition guidance to enhance your cognitive and physical wellness and education about stress management strategies to maximize your emotional balance.

Your journey to better cognitive fitness begins today. Want to take Let’s the first step together? If you live in one our service areas, we’d love to help! Check out out Wellness365 Page for more information and to get signed up today!

References

1. Augusto-Oliveira, M., et al. (2023). Exercise Reshapes the Brain: Molecular, Cellular, and Structural Changes Associated with Cognitive Improvements. Molecular Neurobiology, 60(12), 6950-6974.

2. Puri, S., et al. (2023). Nutrition and Cognitive Health: A Life Course Approach. Frontiers in Public Health, 11.

3. Tai, X.Y., et al. (2022). Impact of Sleep Duration on Executive Function and Brain Structure. Communications Biology, 5(201).

4. Seward, B.L. (2017). Managing Stress: Principles and Strategies for Health and Well-Being. Jones & Bartlett Learning.

5. Sutin, A.R., et al. (2020). Loneliness and Risk of Dementia. The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, 75(7), 1414–1422.

6. Karsazi, H., et al. (2024). Which Intellectual Activities Are Related to Cognitive Reserve? Psychological Research.

7. National Institute on Aging (NIA). Brain Health and Cognitive Reserve. (Available at: https://www.nia.nih.gov)

8. Harvard Health Publishing (n.d.). Cognitive Health and Aging: How Exercise and Nutrition Protect the Brain. (Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu)

The Overflowing Cup and Your Nervous System

By: Dr. Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist, Owner: Healthy Aging Physical Therapy

I went to yoga this morning, in an attempt to regulate nervous system after a week of solo parenting while my husband was out of town. Normally, I can balance all the regular demands of my life, which as a mother, caregiver, business owner, and home owner, are many. But with him away, the balance shifts. Suddenly, it’s double the drives to the pool for swim team, only one man on deck for the morning routine, and each meal and clean up falls to yours truly. By the end of the week, my metaphorical ‘nervous system cup’ was overflowing; while I meet all the needs of my business, my kids and my home on weeks like this, I frequently deprioritize my own needs, failing to get enough water, proper nutrition, exercise or rest. While I know the cycle well, it’s still hard for me to maintain a good balance when something like this tips the scales. During my much-needed yoga session this morning, I got thinking about how interesting it is that while this phenomenon, and the resulting impact on our bodies and nervous systems is so universal, the triggers and manifestations differ from person to person. The good news is that while our own experiences of stress, overwhelm and exhaustion may differ, the ‘treatment’ is relatively simple, evidenced-based, and enjoyable. The first step is understanding your nervous system:

The Overflowing Cup Metaphor

Think of your nervous system as a cup. When it’s half full, it has room to absorb life’s stressors or give more to those around you. But when your cup is full—due to stress, pain, life’s demands or a physiologic change like an illness—even a small addition of water overflows it. As I mentioned, our individual manifestations are varied, but often lead to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or heightened emotional responses. Dysregulation activates the body’s "fight or flight" mode, flooding it with cortisol.

Chronic elevations of cortisol have wide-ranging effects on health. Prolonged stress and high cortisol levels can lead to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, hypertension, and impaired immune function, ultimately increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. There is no lack of evidence in this area. Research published in Frontiers in Endocrinology emphasizes the connection between chronic stress and metabolic disorders, while findings from the National Institute on Aging highlight the role of cortisol in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.

Even if you’re "managing" well and the impacts of dysregulation haven’t yet caused physiological change, a dysregulated nervous system simply feels crappy. It leaves you less efficient in your work, less present in your relationships, and unable to be the best version of yourself. When your nervous system is dysregulated, it’s harder to focus, connect, and enjoy the things that matter most. Prioritizing nervous system regulation is not just about avoiding future health issues; it’s about improving your day-to-day experience of life. It’s about creating more space in your cup so you can thrive, not just survive.

Dysregulation in Chronic Pain, Fear of Falling, and Parkinson’s Disease

Many of the patients we see in our practice experience nervous system dysregulation, often as part of a broader health condition. These patients show patterns of heightened stress response that exacerbate their primary symptoms. Whether it’s chronic pain, fear of falling, or neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, the effects of dysregulation can significantly worsen their quality of life. Below are some specific examples and approaches for nervous system regulation in these populations.

Chronic Pain

Patients with chronic pain often live with a nervous system in overdrive. Long-term exposure to pain can cause the brain to become hypersensitized, interpreting even minor stimuli as significant threats. This constant activation of the sympathetic nervous system amplifies pain and perpetuates a cycle of stress and physical discomfort. Gentle movement, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and diaphragmatic breathing can help calm this cycle, retraining the brain to regulate pain responses more effectively.

Fear of Falling

In older adults, the fear of falling is not just psychological—it’s a full-body response that often keeps patients trapped in a state of hypervigilance. This fear increases muscle tension, disrupts balance, and raises the risk of further falls. Patients in this state frequently withdraw from physical activity, which only worsens functional decline. Interventions such as balance training, slow-paced walking, and grounding techniques can help mitigate these responses and restore confidence.

Parkinson’s Disease

For individuals with Parkinson’s, nervous system dysregulation exacerbates motor and non-motor symptoms, including tremors, freezing, and cognitive challenges. Stress often worsens these symptoms, creating a feedback loop that further destabilizes the nervous system. In these patients, incorporating aerobic exercise, yoga, and social connection into their routines can help regulate the nervous system and improve both physical and mental outcomes.

Evidence-Based Tools for Regulating the Nervous System

Nervous system regulation is key to maintaining physical, mental, and emotional balance. The key to regulating your nervous system isn’t always about eliminating stressors—because often, we can’t. We can’t always reduce our demands, get rid of our chronic diseases, or eliminate every source of stress. Instead, it’s about building a bigger cup. When we do things that increase our capacity, the same amount of water—the same stressors—can fit without overflowing. By expanding our nervous system’s capacity (otherwise known as our resilience), we can absorb more challenges without triggering the negative effects of dysregulation. Below is a list of simple, easy-to-incorporate strategies that are backed by research. These practices can help you expand your capacity, regulate your nervous system, and create more balance in your life.

1. Breathwork

Breathwork practices such as diaphragmatic breathing, box breathing, or the 4-7-8 method stimulate the vagus nerve and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. These techniques reduce heart rate, lower blood pressure, and counteract the effects of the "fight or flight" response. Controlled breathing has been shown to significantly reduce stress by shifting the autonomic balance to favor parasympathetic activity. For some easy-to-follow videos and tips on breathwork, check out the resources on our website here.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness meditation helps bring attention to the present moment and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. Techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method are particularly effective during acute stress. Studies, including those supported by the NIH, show that mindfulness can lower inflammation, improve emotional regulation, and enhance the nervous system's ability to adapt to stress. For a step-by-step guide to the 5-4-3-2-1 method, check out our resources here.

3. Physical Activity

Exercise, particularly rhythmic and moderate-intensity activities such as yoga, walking, or swimming, helps regulate the nervous system by releasing endorphins and improving brain plasticity. It also enhances heart rate variability (HRV), a key marker of parasympathetic activation. Research from the National Institute on Aging highlights that consistent physical activity supports the body’s stress recovery mechanisms, making it a powerful tool for nervous system balance.

4. Quality Sleep

Sleep is essential for nervous system health, allowing the brain to consolidate memories, process emotions, and clear out metabolic waste. Poor sleep disrupts the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, exacerbating stress. Adopting sleep hygiene practices—consistent bedtimes, reducing screen exposure, and creating a restful environment—improves sleep quality and nervous system regulation. For comprehensive sleep hygiene tips, you can refer to the National Institute on Aging's guide here.

5. Nature Connection

Spending time outdoors in natural settings promotes grounding and nervous system regulation. Nature exposure has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and increase parasympathetic activity. A 2020 review in Frontiers in Psychology reported that "forest bathing" or similar nature-based activities improve mood, lower blood pressure, and enhance mental clarity. How easy is that? Feeling overwhelmed? Just go outside.

6. Socialization

Strong social connections play a critical role in nervous system regulation. Meaningful interactions with trusted friends or family members activate the parasympathetic system and promote emotional resilience. Research from the National Institute on Aging indicates that loneliness and social isolation are linked to heightened sympathetic nervous system activity and increased inflammation. In contrast, social bonds lower stress markers like cortisol and improve overall well-being. Group activities such as exercise classes or support groups are particularly effective in this regard. For this reason and many more, Healthy Aging loves teaching our group fitness classes. You can see where we teach on our Group Fitness page here.

Moving Forward: Make Nervous System Regulation a Priority

While we know these strategies sound simple, in reality, it’s the consistency that makes the difference—and that’s often the hardest part. The key is to start small and meet yourself where you are. Focus on adding just one thing at a time. Whether it’s five minutes of deep breathing, a short walk outside, or a single restorative yoga pose, small, consistent steps can begin to regulate your nervous system and create more room in your cup over time. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to start.

References

1. Frontiers in Psychology (2018)
   Study Title: The Effects of Controlled Breathing on Stress and Autonomic Function
   Annotation: This study highlights how breathwork techniques like diaphragmatic breathing and the 4-7-8 method can activate the parasympathetic nervous system and reduce stress-related symptoms.
   Link: Frontiers in Psychology

2. National Institute on Aging
   Resource Title: Getting a Good Night's Sleep
   Annotation: A comprehensive guide to sleep hygiene, detailing practical strategies to improve sleep quality and regulate the nervous system.
   Link: National Institute on Aging

3. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
   Research Title: Deep Phenotyping of Neurologic Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
   Annotation: Explores the biological mechanisms of nervous system dysfunction, including the impact of autonomic dysregulation and immune response.
   Link: NINDS

4. Therapist Aid
   Resource Title: Grounding Techniques (5-4-3-2-1 Method)
   Annotation: A clear, actionable guide for using the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method to manage acute stress and promote mindfulness.
   Link: Therapist Aid

5. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
   Resource Title: Long COVID and Autonomic Dysfunction
   Annotation: Details autonomic nervous system regulation and strategies for improving resilience against stress-related symptoms.
   Link: NIH

6. Frontiers in Endocrinology
   Study Title: Chronic Stress and Metabolic Disorders: Insights from Recent Research
   Annotation: Discusses the long-term health effects of elevated cortisol, including systemic inflammation and increased risk for chronic disease.
   Link: Frontiers in Endocrinology

Embracing Life and Death as a Geriatric Physical Therapist

By: Dr. Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Geriatric Physical Therapy, Owner: Healthy Aging Physical Therapy

Today, I attended the funeral of a patient I’ve had the privilege of knowing closely for the past four years. As a geriatric physical therapist, I spend a lot of time with my patients, more than many people might realize. During our visits, not only did we work on her strength, walking and balance, but we talked. We talked about her life, and my life and her thoughts and experiences. We spent hundred of hours together and developed a true connection.

She was a remarkable woman who embodied one of my favorite phrases: "It's not about the cards in your hand, it's about how you play the cards you’re dealt." She was living with a disease that made life incredibly difficult, and she had no immediate family—her husband had passed, and she didn’t have children. Yet, despite all that, she faced each day with optimism. Every time I saw her, she greeted me with a huge smile, always taking the time to ask about my life, my girls, and how the practice was doing. Her capacity for kindness, despite her own struggles, left a lasting impression on me.

Being a geriatric physical therapist has changed my perception of death. It used to be something I feared, something I dreaded, but now I see it as a natural, and inevitable, part of life. This work has taught me that life isn’t guaranteed. Health and quality of life are precious, and either one can change in an instant. My patient lived that truth every day, and I’m thankful for the example she set. She reminded me that no matter what life throws our way, we have a choice in how we respond to it. She played her cards with grace, compassion, and positivity, and I hope to do the same.

As healthcare providers, we deal with loss all the time. Our patients pass, and it’s a reality of our work. Over time, we become very good at putting on a strong face, talking openly about the tough subjects like illness, end-of-life decisions, and death. We have learned how to have these conversations without letting our personal feelings cloud the discussion or influence the direction. We are trained to guide, support, and help families and patients navigate these moments while holding back the emotions that might make it harder for them to benefit from the conversation. From the outside, we may seem strong and stoic, but the truth is that these experiences accumulate. They touch us deeply, and they impact each of us in different ways. Some losses are harder than others, and sometimes, it’s not until later, that we realize just how much a particular patient meant to us. It’s in those quiet moments, when we let down our guard, that we feel the weight of the work we do and the connections we’ve formed.

Through my work, I’ve come to understand that life is about appreciating each day for the gift that it is. I’m determined to approach each moment with kindness, compassion, and gratitude. Helping people, building relationships, and making a difference - that’s how I want to play my cards. And when the time comes, I hope to embrace death as simply another step in my journey, not as something to fear, but as the conclusion of a life filled with purpose and love.