At the NJ Healthy Aging Summit, experts and community leaders came together to explore how we can help older adults manage pain safely while maintaining their health, mobility and independence. As we continue that important conversation, we are pleased to share this guest blog from John McInerney, Executive Director of the American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey. John highlights the important role physical therapy can play in managing pain without medication, preventing falls and helping older adults continue doing the things they love.
Throughout the remainder of the year, we will share lessons, resources and practical information from the Summit to help older adults, caregivers and communities make informed decisions about pain management and medication safety. We are grateful to everyone who joined us, shared their expertise and helped make this conversation possible. Together, we can help make aging in New Jersey safer, healthier and more independent.
Learn more at NJHealthyAging.com
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Healthy Aging in New Jersey:
Keeping Our Communities Moving Safely & Independently
by John McInerney
Executive Director
American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey (APTANJ)
New Jersey is home to a growing population of older adults who are redefining what it means to age. Today’s seniors want to remain active, engaged and independent — whether that means enjoying time with grandchildren, volunteering in their communities, traveling or simply maintaining the ability to live safely in their own homes. Achieving those goals begins with one essential ingredient: movement.
Physical therapists are movement experts who help people maintain and restore mobility, improve balance and strength and manage pain through evidence-based, non-pharmacological care. By addressing the underlying causes of pain and functional limitations, physical therapy often provides an effective alternative to opioid medications for many musculoskeletal conditions. As New Jersey continues its efforts to reduce opioid dependence, increasing awareness of physical therapy as a safe, effective first-line treatment can help individuals recover while avoiding the risks associated with prescription pain medications.
When pain is effectively managed and mobility improves, people are better equipped to remain active — and staying active is one of the best defenses against another significant health concern: falls. Falls are among the leading causes of injury and loss of independence for older adults, yet many are preventable. Physical therapists assess fall risk, identify strength and balance deficits, and develop personalized exercise programs that help individuals move with greater confidence and stability.
Recognizing the importance of prevention, the American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey proudly supports Assembly Bill A2428, legislation that would establish a statewide pilot program to increase awareness of fall prevention. By educating older adults, caregivers and healthcare providers about proven strategies to reduce fall risk, New Jersey can help more residents remain healthy, independent and engaged in their communities.
Healthy aging is not simply about living longer — it’s about living well. Through movement, education, prevention and compassionate care, physical therapists are helping New Jersey residents reduce pain, prevent injuries and maintain the independence that allows them to continue doing the things they love. Just as importantly, New Jersey residents have Direct Access to physical therapy, meaning they can see a licensed physical therapist in most cases without first obtaining a physician referral. Early access to physical therapy can help address pain sooner, improve mobility and reduce the risk of future injuries before they become more serious. To learn more about how physical therapy can support a healthier, more active lifestyle, visit APTANJ.org or NJPTDirect.com