Physiotherapy vital to supporting an ageing population
With the rapid ageing of the population, it is important to recognise the vital role that physiotherapists play in supporting older Australians to stay healthy and active says the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) president, Pat Maher.
“Older Australians with chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory and cardiac conditions can be supported to stay out of hospitals and nursing homes by physiotherapists,” Mr Maher said.
He was speaking on World Physical Therapy Day, held on 8 September.
Physiotherapy for older people is an important way to help people to increase their level of physical activity and to prevent falls – the leading cause of injury admissions to Australia’s hospitals.
People should be doing at least 30 minutes of exercise every day of the week. This is particularly important for older Australians where regular exercise has significant health benefits.
Physiotherapists are experts in supporting people to carry out physical activity and can particularly help older people by designing an exercise plan that helps prevent or managing injuries.
Physiotherapists can also help older employees maintain and improve their productivity in the workforce – something that is essential for the economy.
Mr Maher urged governments at all levels to acknowledge the importance of supporting older people to stay mobile and independent, and to maximise their function.
He emphasised the role of government in ensuring that physiotherapy services in the residential aged care sector are adequately funded. He said that this will make sure that all residents can access the physiotherapy they need to maintain their optimal physical function – saving precious health dollars in the long term, as well as making sure that older Australians maintain the self-respect and dignity they deserve.
