Current Knowledge and Gaps in Geriatric Rehabilitation among Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Specialists.

BACKGROUND

The global demographic shift toward an aging population necessitates a critical transformation in healthcare, particularly within physical and rehabilitation medicine (PRM). Older adults frequently present with complex geriatric syndromes, such as frailty, sarcopenia, and cognitive impairment, that demand specialized, multidisciplinary rehabilitation strategies.

METHODS

The present global survey, conducted by the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (ISPRM) Special Interest Group (SIG) in Geriatric Rehabilitation, identifies systemic and educational gaps in the current PRM landscape.

RESULTS

Despite a high clinical caseload of older adults, the majority of PRM practitioners report inadequate residency training in geriatric competencies and cite workforce shortages as primary barriers to care.

CONCLUSION

This article discusses the perspectives and future steps required to elevate geriatric rehabilitation, emphasizing the urgent need for structured academic programs.