Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy Research Agenda: Rationale for the Development and the Intent for Use

The rationale for the development and the intent for use of a research agenda for the Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy is described. The reasons for the research agenda for geriatric physical therapy are (1) to have a broad representation of the research conducted by physical therapist(s) working with older adults, (2) to provide guidance and assistance to emerging investigators to aid the trajectory of a research career, and (3) as a document to engage potential funding agencies, foundations, and individuals in support of physical therapist-conducted research. The design was based on the Research Agenda for Physical Therapy (APTA document), formatted to be consistent with the World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, priority ratings for the research statements, and specific examples of research questions for each category of the Research Agenda. The Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy Research Agenda generated to be a living document, with revisions to research questions and priority ratings expected in the future to enable the agenda to adapt to changes in science, practice, workforce, education, and health policy.