Class of 2021 Doctor of Physical Therapy students John Basa, Kira Kamrud, Sierra Martin and Maggie Smith earned top honors in a video contest hosted by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Geriatrics Academy in February. The students’ video, Physical Therapy for Depression in Older Adults, introduces the role of physical therapy in mitigating fall risk for depressed older individuals.

The students created the project as part of a geriatric physical therapy class taught by Mariana Wingwood, an interprofessional health sciences Ph.D. candidate and board certified geriatric clinical specialist. The benefits of the project are twofold, said Wingwood, as it provides valuable information for the community while giving students the opportunity to become skilled in using “patient-friendly” language.

“This recognition brings immense pride to our program and community partners, and a true sense of accomplishment of our outstanding students and faculty,” said Reuben Escorpizo, clinical associate professor and interim physical therapy program director.

The winners will receive a one-year APTA Geriatrics membership and their video will be added to APTA’s clinical library.