Francis Louter

I am currently a PhD researcher at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), supervised by Prof. Ivan Bautmans and Prof. Annelies Pool-Goudzwaard. My research focuses on how neuromuscular changes and inflammation influence muscle endurance and self-perceived fatigue in older adults, within the broader context of healthy ageing. As part of my PhD, I also teach within the gerontology master programmes at VUB.

Alongside my PhD, I work as a geriatric physiotherapist. In clinical practice, the importance of quality of life becomes very clear through the personal stories of older adults. Behind mobility limitations or functional decline are often experiences that have a major impact on daily life.

I am fascinated by the extent to which we can influence our ageing trajectory, inspired by the heterogeneity I encountered in clinical practice. This sparked my interest in ageing research and led me to pursue the Research Master of Gerontological Sciences at VUB, ultimately continuing with a PhD in the field. Through both research and clinical practice, I hope to contribute to a better understanding of ageing and to support older adults in maintaining their health and independence for as long as possible.