WHAT DOES LIVING TO 100 YEARS OLD
MEANS FOR PHYSIOTHERAPY?
• If people nowadays will get to live to 100, that means that the outcome of their last
30 years will be highly decided by the lifestyle choices they make in their first 70. Of
course there is so much one could do in the face of genetics and epidemics. But
nevertheless, healthy diets and physical activity can help prevent some conditions,
help better manage existing and future ones, and even have a life-changing
impact.
• There is evidence that physiotherapy can provide relief and improve quality of life
in palliative care as well. Initially described as terminal care, palliative care has now
evolved into comprising rehabilitation as well. Life-threatening conditions such as
cancer, cardiovascular disease or multiple sclerosis have benefitted throughout
the years from the involvement of physiotherapeutic techniques. Because many
elderly people do not have the needed support, it makes it all the more difficult for
them to access this sort of treatment that could transform their lives.
• There is an immediate call to action to increase access to physiotherapy, train
more specialists and raise awareness about the benefits it holds. Canada’s
healthcare needs are changing in irreversible ways, driving a high demand of both
traditional services and specialized, customized ones, such as physiotherapy. The
conditions and symptoms have been also increasing in severity and complexity
creating a need for treatments just as complex as the diseases they treat. Patients
are changing as well demanding more information regarding their treatment
options and thus empowering them to choose the best solution that suits them.