This year’s theme, “Healthy Ageing – Role of Physiotherapy in Falls and Frailty”, draws attention to the significance of physiotherapy in preventing falls, managing frailty, and supporting dignified ageing among the elderly
Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Monday stressed the need to promote physiotherapy as an integral component of healthy ageing initiatives, highlighting its role in improving quality of life across all age groups.
Marking World Physiotherapy Day, observed annually on September 8, Nadda underscored the importance of physical therapy in enhancing mobility, independence, and recovery after falls, stroke, and other conditions.
“On the occasion of World Physiotherapy Day, let us acknowledge the crucial role physiotherapy plays in improving mobility, enhancing independence, and ensuring better quality of life for individuals of all ages,” Nadda said in a post on X.
This year’s theme, “Healthy Ageing – Role of Physiotherapy in Falls and Frailty”, draws attention to the significance of physiotherapy in preventing falls, managing frailty, and supporting dignified ageing among the elderly.
Nadda urged that physiotherapy must be promoted nationwide as part of healthy ageing initiatives. He also noted that beyond back pain treatment, physiotherapy aids recovery in cases of stroke, sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, chronic pain, and elderly care.
The Minister further outlined government measures to strengthen elderly healthcare under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. More than 1.6 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are already delivering primary healthcare services. Under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), senior citizens aged 70 and above are entitled to free medical treatment worth up to Rs 5 lakh per family.
Additionally, the National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE) provides specialised services at primary and tertiary levels, while the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) supports senior citizens with physical and assisted living devices.
“Let us continue to promote physiotherapy as an integral part of healthy ageing initiatives across the nation,” Nadda added.
