Celebrating movement: Physiotherapy and exercise physiology

News

3 mins

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain condition that affects memory, thinking and behaviour. It’s one of the leading causes of dementia, and rates are rising across Australia, including in our Mob.

Let’s move into springtime! September is a time to celebrate movement and wellbeing across our Community. With World Physiotherapy Day on 8 September and World Clinical Exercise Physiology Day on 23 September, we’re highlighting how staying active supports healthy ageing, especially for our Elders.

This year’s theme for World Physiotherapy Day is Physiotherapy and Physical Activity for Healthy Ageing, focusing on preventing frailty and falls. Exercise & Sports Science Australia also highlights the role of Accredited Exercise Physiologists in helping people live longer, stronger and more independently.

Staying strong as we age

Elders hold deep knowledge and play vital roles in family and community life. Supporting their health and mobility helps keep connections strong — to Mob, to Country and to culture.

Here are some gentle exercises recommended by physiotherapists and exercise physiologists that support healthy ageing:

Strength and stability

Sit-to-stand: Builds leg strength for everyday movement.
Heel raises: Strengthens calves and improves balance.
Seated leg lifts: Supports hip and thigh strength.

Flexibility and mobility

Shoulder blade squeezes: Improves posture and upper body mobility.
Toe taps and ankle rotations: Boosts circulation and joint flexibility.
Side leg raises: Strengthens hips and helps with balance.

Balance and coordination

One-leg balance (with support): Helps prevent falls.
Marching in place: Improves coordination and leg strength.

Why it matters

Regular movement helps older people:

stay independent and safe
reduce the risk of chronic illness
improve mental wellbeing
stay connected to family, culture and Country.

Whether it’s walking on Country, gardening, having a cuppa with mates, or playing with grandkids, staying active helps you keep doing what matters most.

Yarn with a physio or excercise physiologist (EP)

At IUIH, our physiotherapists and exercise physiologists work with you to create personalised plans that suit your lifestyle and health needs. We’re here to support you to stay strong, mobile and connected.

Let’s celebrate World Physiotherapy Day and World Exercise Physiology Day by moving together toward healthy ageing.

Interested in movement and exercise? Follow us on social media — every month we post stretches and exercises from out Work it Out team.