Special Olympics Athletes Benefit from Downstate PT Student-Led Health Assessments

By Office of the President | Feb 6, 2024

Downstate Physical Therapy (PT) students recently volunteered for the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes program. They were an integral part of the FUNfitness (physical therapy) segment, where they conducted health assessments for athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities. This event took place at the Javits Convention Center in Manhattan and showcased the significance of community engagement within the field of physical therapy.

Among the key contributors were clinical faculty member and guest lecturer Anna Len, DPT, along with PT doctoral students, Matt Zaharenios and Tyler Dymond. Together, they worked tirelessly to create an inclusive environment that encouraged athletes of all ages to push their boundaries and, most importantly, have fun.

Matt and Tyler assessed participants for flexibility, functional strength, and balance while meticulously recording data. These data were later submitted to the Centers for Disease Control, which maintains the nation’s most extensive dataset on people with intellectual disabilities. At the end of their screenings, each athlete received customized recommendations and exercise plans, supporting their journey toward improved health and well-being.

The Healthy Athletes program has been a beacon of hope, providing free care to hundreds of thousands of Special Olympics athletes who often face significant barriers when accessing healthcare. Data collected from these screenings is aggregated and carefully assessed, serving as a foundation for policy recommendations and advocacy efforts to enhance healthcare for all Special Olympics athletes.

Thank you to the PT program and all those who participated in this event, exemplifying how community engagement and healthcare access can make a positive impact.