1st Speaker of March:

Maddie Cheaney, PhD

Seminar Title: The Role of Footwear on Mobility in an Aging Population

Presentation Date: 3/6/2026

Presentation Time: 11:00 AM

Seminar Details: This presentation, will explore how foot biomechanics and footwear choices influence fall risk among older adults. It will outline the fundamental anatomy and functional requirements of the foot-ankle complex and cover common age-related dysfunctions, including reduced muscle power and increased gait variability, which serve as critical fall predictors. A central focus of this presentation will be on the use of “traditional” shoes—which may impede natural movement and dampen sensory feedback—in contrast to the potential therapeutic benefits of minimalist footwear. Additionally, a framework for a gradual, monitored transition to these alternatives to improve stability and functional performance in the elderly will be discussed.

Speaker Bio: Maddie Cheaney, PhD, CSCS, CES is an Assistant Professor and Kinesiology Program Director at Azusa Pacific University. Her kinesiology specialty is biomechanics, and she is passionate about applying her knowledge to help others and teach her students to improve movement, reduce injury risk, and enhance performance. Her research history includes analyzing firefighter biomechanics and the effects of prophylactic bracing, with a focus on understanding how common protective equipment can alter biomechanics. Maddie is married to a firefighter/paramedic, and together they have a 7-year-old son and a 5-year-old daughter.

Seminar Objectives:

• Identify the structural components of the foot-ankle complex and explain the functional roles of joint mobility, specifically the importance of ankle dorsiflexion and 1st MTP extension for efficient gait.
• Explain how mechanoreceptors on the sole of the foot provide critical sensory feedback for proactive balance corrections and how traditional footwear can dampen these inputs.
• Differentiate between muscle strength and muscle power as predictors of fall recovery and recognize gait variability metrics (such as step length and clearance) associated with increased risk.
• Critique how features like elevated heels and narrow toe boxes impact natural foot motion compared to the anatomical design and sensory benefits of minimalist footwear.
• Outline a progressive 16-week strategy for introducing minimalist footwear in older adults, including how to identify contraindications and manage risks during the adaptation phase.

Past Speaker:

Flora Bessey, PharmD

Presentation Title: GLP1s and GIPS in Geriatric Care

Seminar Details: this webinar will dive into the clinical considerations, regulatory guidelines, and evidence-based strategies essential for managing complex geriatric needs. Attendees will gain practical insights on minimizing risks, addressing polypharmacy, and optimizing therapeutic efficacy for long-term care residents. Whether you’re a pharmacist, clinician, or healthcare administrator, join us to discover how targeted GLP1 treatments can elevate care standards and enhance patient well-being across the continuum of geriatric services.