Chiung-ju (CJ) Liu, Ph.D., OTR/L, an associate professor in the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions Department of Occupational Therapy, was invited by conference organizers to present her research at the NASA Annual Occupational Health Operational Update held June 10-13 at NASA Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
In her presentation, Liu emphasized the importance of focusing on healthspan — the period of life spent in good health — rather than simply lifespan. She also highlighted the critical role of exercise in maintaining functional ability, defined as the capacity to perform daily activities that are meaningful and valuable to individuals.
“The fear of becoming care-dependent is common among older adults,” Liu said. “Functional ability is one of the best investments we can make for our retirement account.”
The director of the Healthy Aging and Functional Ability Lab, Liu’s research focuses on factors that enhance older adults’ functional ability and their capacity to be and do what they value. Functional ability is crucial for aging in place.
NASA Annual Occupational Health Operational Update is a multi-day hybrid conference for the agency’s occupational health personnel. The event brings together professionals from 14 NASA centers, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, mental health professionals, fitness and exercise specialists, industrial hygienists, and environmental health experts, who support the health and wellness of the entire NASA workforce.