Physiotherapy - Moving towards Preventive Care
About the research programme
The Physiotherapy - Moving towards Preventive Care research group develops practical and smart solutions to encourage people to exercise in a targeted manner and thus prevent health problems. The focus is on residents of various communities in the Amsterdam region, with special attention for people in a vulnerable health position due to their living conditions or existing health disadvantages.
The research focuses primarily on 2 forms of prevention:
- Indicated prevention: recognising and addressing early symptoms to prevent deterioration.
- Care-related prevention: supporting people with existing conditions to prevent complications, relapse and loss of quality of life.
Smart solutions for preventive care
The research group combines exercise interventions with care technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent health problems. By developing, testing and implementing responsible innovative interventions, the research group contributes to accessible and personalised preventive care.
Working together on preventive care
The research group's projects are carried out in close collaboration with physiotherapy partners, neighbourhood partners, healthcare organisations, the municipality of Amsterdam, sports clubs and knowledge institutions. Students, residents and professionals also actively participate in so-called living labs.
With this approach, the research group contributes to a healthier society, in which preventive physiotherapy care is personal, smart and effective. Knowledge is shared through symposia, publications, (social) media and education. In collaboration with other research groups, educational programmes and partners in the field, the research group is working to improve the health of Amsterdam's residents, the future of physiotherapy as a preventive profession and the education of tomorrow's physiotherapists.
Special research group Rehabilitation in Complex Care
The Physiotherapy - Moving towards Preventive Care research group has a specialised research group in Rehabilitation in Complex Care. This specialised research group is led by Marike van der Schaaf (Amsterdam UMC). Thanks to this link, both research groups reinforce each other in education, research and innovation. Together, they work to improve rehabilitation and promote prevention in the daily living environment of clients, with extra attention for complex care needs.