Our University hosts the "PhysAgeNet & EGRAPA Conference 2025," a prominent international scientific meeting organized under the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) framework. Held under the theme "Are We Closing the Gaps in Evidence-Based Physical Activity in Older Age?", the conference is organized by the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences.

The event brings together approximately 60 distinguished researchers from nearly 30 countries, aiming to advance the global discourse on evidence-based physical activity in older age. Through a series of scientific sessions, workshops, and poster presentations, participants are engaging in critical discussions addressing major gaps in current research and practice.

Key topics include the need for personalized and applicable exercise programs, the inclusion of underrepresented populations such as disabled, low-income, and socially isolated older adults in studies, the scarcity of long-term research, and the integration of technology in physical activity interventions for aging populations.

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arzu Erden Güner, the Chair of Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation and local organizer of the event. This was followed by an address from our Rector, Prof. Dr. Hamdullah Çuvalcı, who emphasized the interdisciplinary significance of physical activity across the lifespan. “Physical activity in old age has been studied for many years by various disciplines such as Medicine, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences,” he stated. “With technological advancements, Engineering and Health Sciences have become increasingly interconnected. Today, fields such as Artificial Intelligence and Biomechanical Engineering provide robust evidence supporting physical activity research. As society adopts a more holistic approach to health, physical activity plays an even more vital role in aging, serving as the cornerstone of health, functionality, and well-being.”

Prof. Dr. Yael Netz and Prof. Dr. Michael Brach, conference chairs, expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to hold the event in Trabzon and at our University, noting the collaborative and innovative spirit fostered throughout the sessions.

Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Bahittin Kahveci, also attended the conference, which features diverse themes including Physical Activity and Well-being in Older Age, Molecular, Genetic, and Cellular Mechanisms, Technology in Physical Activity Interventions, Mindful Practices in Aging, Epidemiological Perspectives, Brain, Cognition, and Physical Activity, and Strategies for Promoting Physical Activity in Later Life.

Over the course of the first two days, leading experts presented groundbreaking research and shared innovative solutions. The conference is expected to contribute significantly to the development of future research projects, international collaborations, and actionable scientific outcomes.

 

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