Therapy


Promoting independence and wellbeing in care homes


Regular physiotherapy support in care homes can help meet new government neighbourhood health aims, while boosting independence and quality of life, writes Skye Ramell and Kelly Steed.


The UK has an ageing population, with increasing numbers of older adults living with complex health conditions, frailty, disability, and cognitive impairment. As a result, care homes have become an increasingly crucial component of the health and social care system, providing long-term support for individuals who are no longer able to live independently. Residents in care homes often present


with multiple long-term conditions, reduced mobility, high risk of falls, dementia, and functional decline. In the UK, it is not standard practice to have in-house therapists within nursing or residential homes. One study found that 60 per cent of care homes use physiotherapy services compared to 99 per cent in the Netherlands. Some care homes in the UK do not use physiotherapy services at all. While care staff can refer into the NHS


for physiotherapy on a case-by-case basis, the waiting lists are often long, and not all staff are aware of the wide ranging referral criteria for residents and how a therapist might benefit their residents. The European guidelines recommend bespoke, 35-45 minute physical activity sessions at least twice a week for every older person in a nursing home that has no contraindications to exercise. Physiotherapists are very well- placed to deliver these exercise sessions


can their expertise improve wellbeing for people living in care homes; they also play a key role in supporting care staff and other members of the multidisciplinary team.


Complex needs Older adults living in care homes often have complex and interrelated physical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs. Many live with conditions such as osteoarthritis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis, respiratory conditions, and dementia. These conditions can significantly impact mobility, balance, self-care, communication, and participation in meaningful activities. Frailty is highly prevalent in care home


to nursing homes, with their expertise in holistic, person-centred assessments and exercise prescriptions. Therapists work well as part of


neighbourhood multi-disciplinary teams alongside the GP, nursing staff, and carers. They have specialist skills in communication, holistic assessments, goal setting. Their role in maintaining physical function, promoting independence, preventing deterioration, and enhancing quality of life for older adults is so important for those who live with frailty, risk of falls, and cognitive decline. Not only


Therapists help prevent avoidable admissions by


managing conditions proactively 36 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com June 2026


populations and is associated with muscle weakness, reduced endurance, increased risk of falls, and functional decline. It is widely documented that without appropriate intervention, residents may experience rapid deconditioning, leading to a loss of independence and increased reliance on staff.5


This not only affects physical health


but can also contribute to low mood, social isolation, and reduced self-esteem. Physiotherapists and occupational


therapists are well trained to assess these complex needs holistically. Their input ensures that care is proactive rather than reactive, focusing on the needs of the individual, enabling them to maintain and enhance their function, preventing avoidable deterioration. Physiotherapists and occupational


therapists support a person’s wellbeing by focusing on communication, physical function, movement, strength, balance, pain management, cognitive function,


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