A survey of gerontology articles in physiotherapy journals

A total of 144 articles in the field of gerontology/geriatrics published between 1980-88 in leading physiotherapy journals in America, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom were examined in terms of source of publication and authors, research design and possible professional practice implications. The study examines the subject content of what physiotherapists from different countries have published on ageing; documents the current literature reflecting professional practice achievements and research interest; and identifies gaps in topics included in the physiotherapy journals. The fact that articles on gerontology are underrepresented in physiotherapy journals is readily apparent. A trend towards publishing more data-based articles; a low percentage of articles written jointly by physiotherapists and other professionals; and limited collaboration as measured by joint publication between physiotherapists working in clinical settings and those working in tertiary institutions has also emerged.