Celebrating Physiotherapy within Aged Care this World Physiotherapy Day

Celebrating Physiotherapy within Aged Care this World Physiotherapy Day

Every year, World Physiotherapy Day (Sept 8) recognises the important role that physiotherapists play in our communities to improve our health and wellbeing.

Physiotherapists work across a range of health settings including private practices, public and private hospitals, community health centres, residential aged care facilities and sports organisations.

The theme for this year’s World Physiotherapy Day is “rehabilitation after severe respiratory illness” and the role that physiotherapy and physical activity can have in helping people through recovery.

This theme is especially relevant within the aged care sector, with our elderly among those more at risk of respiratory illnesses, including covid-19. With increased age, we are more susceptible to respiratory illness and infections.

“Physiotherapists have a large role in rehabilitation following respiratory illness,” highlights Physiotherapist Spencer Davis from Adelaide’s PhysioWest.

“We not only assist in reducing shortness of breath with exercise and breathing techniques, but also assist in improving mobility/balance as patients are deconditioned in the majority of cases.”

Physiotherapists from multiple sectors provide services to the elderly population, and are trained to understand specific aged care culture and practices. They perform many services for residents within aged care facilities including pain assessment/management, rehabilitation, breathing/coughing techniques, pain relief, falls prevention programs, walking retraining, manual handling, and group exercise classes.

“It’s very rewarding to work with the elderly, but most importantly physiotherapy services can help our seniors maintain their independence and remain as healthy as possible. Seeing any person achieve their goals is always great to see, especially those within our aged care facilities and in the community,” shares Spencer.

Thank you to Physiotherapists everywhere!

Altaira is seeking physiotherapists for our aged care clients’ facilities and community services across Adelaide’s metropolitan area. Ideally you will have experience in aged care and ACFI however all applicants will be considered. You choose your shifts and work when you want, not when others want you to! Please send your resume to recruit@altaira.com.au to apply, or click here for the position description on Seek.