International Day of Older Persons 2025: The Role of Physiotherapy and Physical Activity in Maintaining Elderly Functional Ability

Feature Photo

Dr. M. Yasin Ali: Today, October 1, is observed worldwide as International Day of Older Persons. Established by the United Nations, the day aims to highlight the rights, dignity, and well-being of older persons and to recognize their experience and contributions.

Theme for 2025
The theme for 2025 is: “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights.” This emphasizes that older persons are not only recipients of care but can also be drivers of local and global development while asserting their own rights and aspirations. It reminds us that seniors are capable of providing new directions in society through active social participation.

Physical Challenges of Aging
As people age, the body undergoes various changes:

• Muscle strength and bone density decrease,

• Walking and balance become difficult,

• Risk of chronic pain, arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease increases.

While these changes are natural, without proper care they can lead to rapid loss of functional ability.

Maintaining Functional Ability Through Physiotherapy and Physical Activity
Regular physical activity and physiotherapy are the most effective ways to address these challenges. Activities such as walking, light exercise, stretching, or resistance training help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. They also keep the brain active, improve sleep, and promote mental well-being.

Physiotherapy is particularly beneficial as it is individualized. A physiotherapist designs exercises according to the patient’s age, physical condition, and specific issues. Benefits include:

• Increased muscle strength and flexibility,

• Improved walking and balance, reducing the risk of falls,

• Pain management,

• Easier performance of daily tasks.

Physiotherapy is not just therapeutic but also preventive, enabling older persons to remain healthy and functional before serious health issues arise.

Conclusion
International Day of Older Persons 2025 reminds us that seniors are not a burden; they are repositories of experience, knowledge, and wisdom. It is our collective responsibility to keep them healthy and active. Physiotherapy and regular physical activity can serve as the most reliable companions in maintaining the health and functional ability of older persons.

Author: Dr. M. Yasin Ali, Chairman & Chief Consultant, Dhaka City Physiotherapy Hospital, Dhanmondi, Dhaka. Mobile: 01787-106702