Susan J. Leach

Susan J. Leach is a researcher at the University of New Mexico, affiliated with the College of Health Professions. She co-authored a peer-reviewed article published in 2025 in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy.

• Research focuses on geriatric physical therapy, movement systems, functional mobility, aging populations, chronic condition management, and person-centered care.

The article introduces the Movement Framework for Older Adults (MFOA), which integrates the Geriatric 5Ms (Mind, Mobility, Medication, Multicomplexity, and what Matters Most) into physical therapy. This model addresses gaps in traditional frameworks like the ICF by emphasizing preventive and holistic strategies for aging adults with complex health needs.

• Recent publications highlight a movement-centered paradigm shift in geriatric care.
• Collaborated with experts across institutions including Sacred Heart University and the University of North Texas.