World physiotherapy day 2025: The role of physiotherapy and physical activity in healthy ageing

Every year, on 8 September, World Physiotherapy Day is observed globally. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of physiotherapy, highlight the contributions of physiotherapists, and promote its positive effects on physical, mental, and social well-being.

The theme for 2025 — "The role of physiotherapy and physical activity in healthy ageing: preventing frailty and falls" — emphasises the health challenges of ageing and the critical role physiotherapy plays in addressing them.

With increasing age, physical strength, muscle performance, bone density, and balance tend to decline, leading to:

• Muscle weakness – making daily tasks harder

• Bone fragility – raising risk of falls and fractures

• Reduced balance – a major risk for injury

• Chronic illnesses – arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension become more prevalent

About 30–40% of people over 65 experience at least one fall annually. These can cause serious injuries, loss of independence, and social isolation.

Physiotherapy is vital not just for rehabilitation but also for prevention. It supports healthy, active ageing and helps maintain independence.

Physical activity benefits not only muscles and bones, but also mental alertness and social interaction. A physiotherapist-guided exercise plan ensures safe and effective outcomes.

Prevention is better than cure. To age healthily, exercise daily, eat a balanced diet, get adequate rest, have regular check-ups, and follow physiotherapist-recommended routines.

Older adults carry wisdom and tradition. Keeping them healthy benefits families and society. Physiotherapy helps them remain active, independent, and valuable contributors to their communities.

Access to physiotherapy remains limited, especially in rural areas. Solutions include awareness campaigns to educate families and communities, training more physiotherapists, and community programmes offering regular physical activity and therapy services.

Physiotherapy ensures physical ability, mental well-being, and social participation for older adults. It must be integrated into mainstream healthcare. With regular physical activity and physiotherapy, our elders can enjoy active, independent, and fulfilling lives.

The writer is the Chairman and Chief Consultant at Dhaka City Physiotherapy Hospital, Dhanmondi, Dhaka. Email: [email protected]