Ton Bakker

Dr. Ton Bakker is a Professor in Preservation of Function for Elderly in Life-course Perspective at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences' Research Centre Innovations in Care. He combines clinical practice as a treating physician at Zellingen Care Group with academic leadership through roles at the Foundation 'Science Balance' and postgraduate education initiatives.

• Former 38-year director of Treatment & Care at Argos Care Group
• Current research focuses on preventing functional decline in elderly populations
• Developed multidisciplinary psychogeriatric training programs

His research explores:

• Early detection and intervention for functional impairment
• Primary care systems for frail elders
• Hospital-based geriatric rehabilitation
• Implementation of dementia care programs

Recent publications analyze stepped-care methods for dementia symptoms, cross-cultural program implementation, and hospitalization outcomes. His work emphasizes measurable healthcare improvements through functional preservation strategies.

As an educator, he directs the Psy-Ger-On training institute and contributes to postgraduate programs for elderly care specialists, psychologists, and nursing professionals through RINO (Regional Institutions for Continuing Education).