As the population ages, conversations about keeping people active, independent, and living well for longer are becoming more urgent. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) has recently urged MPs to put physiotherapy front and centre in the UK’s healthy ageing plans, and we couldn’t agree more.

Why this matters:
The evidence is clear: staying physically active prevents illness, speeds recovery, and helps people maintain independence. But for too many, access to expert support like physiotherapy comes too late – often after problems have become severe, secondary issues have developed and life has been negatively impacted. This can really limit independence, confidence and joy in later years.

Key points from the CSP’s recommendations:

• Early intervention: Making physiotherapy advice available early for people with long-term conditions, before issues escalate.

• Community rehabilitation: Expanding services so people can access help close to home.

• Better integration: Linking NHS, social care, and community services to create seamless support.

• Prevention focus: From fracture prevention to cancer pre-habilitation, physiotherapy can save the NHS huge costs and improve quality of life.

Our take at goPhysio:
We see first hand the difference that early, proactive physiotherapy can make. Whether it’s preventing falls, recovering from surgery, or managing arthritis, getting the right advice and exercises early on can keep people independent for longer.

What this means locally:
Healthy ageing isn’t just a government goal – it’s something we can work towards together as a community. That’s why we…

• Offer a range of services targeted specifically at ageing well. This includes or 60+ Positive Steps Exercise Groups, Chair Based Pilates, Mat & Reformer Pilates, individual rehab

• Work closely with local GPs and health professionals to make access easier.

• Support local events and initiatives promoting active lifestyles.

The bottom line:
With the right investment and focus, physiotherapy can transform healthy ageing – reducing pressure on the NHS, tackling health inequalities, and helping people enjoy life for longer. Until those changes happen nationally, we’ll continue doing our part locally to keep our community moving and thriving.