At Youngstown State University’s Active Aging & Rehabilitation Lab, movement becomes more than exercise, it becomes a pathway to confidence, independence, and community. Through evidence-based programming focused on Parkinson’s Disease support and fall prevention, the Active Aging Lab is helping older adults across the region stay active, safe, and connected.
The impact of YSU’s fall preparedness initiatives has reached a national audience through the Modern Management of Older Adults podcast, where faculty, students, and alumni shared how movement education and fall recovery training can improve confidence and quality of life for older adults.
Rooted in collaboration between exercise science and physical therapy students and faculty, the lab blends clinical knowledge with hands-on care to deliver meaningful community impact.
The Active Aging & Rehabilitation Lab is designed around a simple but powerful mission: empowering older adults through movement, education, and community support.
Programs focus on:
The program is free for our community, and our participants consistently report makes a noticeable difference in their daily lives.
The lab offers both on-campus and off-campus opportunities to ensure accessibility for participants. Programming is designed around evidence-based exercise strategies that support mobility, balance, strength, and confidence in daily movement.
Sessions are led by trained instructors and supported by physical therapy and exercise science students, creating a collaborative environment where participants receive individualized attention and encouragement.
For students in exercise science and physical therapy, the Active Aging & Rehabilitation Lab offers more than classroom experience. It provides meaningful opportunities to work directly with community members and see the impact of movement-based healthcare firsthand.
Madison Haidet, an exercise science student preparing to attend physician assistant school, says the program helped her discover how rewarding community-centered healthcare can be.
Through the lab, Madison worked directly with older adults participating in Parkinson’s Disease and fall prevention programming. She guided exercises focused on mobility, posture, and balance. She says one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was building lasting relationships with participants and watching their confidence grow over time.
Madison also credits the exercise science program at Youngstown State University for giving students opportunities to apply what they learn in real clinical and wellness settings while making a direct impact in the community.
For Theresa Minich, the Active Aging Lab has reinforced the value of connection, mentorship, and individualized care in healthcare settings.
As a Doctor of Physical Therapy Student and lead group fitness instructor within the program, Theresa works closely with participants to create an environment that is both supportive and challenging. Her approach focuses on helping individuals feel comfortable while encouraging steady progress in strength, balance, and mobility.
“My philosophy is I like to meet participants where they’re at… while advocating that this is the safest place to challenge yourself and try new things.”
The collaborative nature of the program also allows physical therapy and exercise science students to work side by side. The students develop hands-on clinical skills while learning from one another. Theresa says the experience has strengthened her passion for mentorship and helping future healthcare professionals gain confidence through practical experience.
Neva Turner says one of the most rewarding aspects of the Active Aging & Rehabilitation Lab is the strong sense of community created within each class.
Participants not only work on improving their balance, strength, and movement, but also build friendships and support systems that keep them motivated and engaged. For many, the classes become an important part of their weekly routine and overall wellness journey.
As an exercise science student, Neva says the experience has expanded her understanding of healthcare careers and provided valuable hands-on learning opportunities outside of the classroom. She believes programs like the Active Aging Lab help students grow professionally while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Whether in a campus lab or a community setting, the Active Aging & Rehabilitation Lab is redefining what it means to age actively. Through structured, evidence-based programming and compassionate student engagement, participants are gaining strength, improving mobility, and building confidence in everyday life.
At its core, the program reflects a simple truth: movement is medicine, and community is part of the healing.
For the most up-to-date class times and offerings, visit the BCHHS wellness calendar.
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