World Physical Therapy Day is celebrated annually on September 8th, and the theme for 2025 highlights the role of physiotherapy in active aging, fall prevention, and combating frailty.

Savonia University of Applied Sciences educates physiotherapists whose expertise plays a vital role in supporting the functional ability of the aging population.

Falls are the second most common cause of accidental death worldwide. Each year, 37.3 million falls require medical attention globally. People over the age of 60 are at the highest risk of fatal falls.

Regular physical activity—especially strength and balance training—reduces the risk of falling and helps prevent the onset of frailty.

Movement is Medicine

It’s never too late to start exercising. Every step toward a more active lifestyle is a step toward healthier aging.

Marja Äijö, Principal Lecturer at Savonia, emphasizes that even older individuals should not be afraid of strength training.

“The belief that you might be too old to start strength training is a myth that research clearly disproves. Many think that added weights will harm their joints, when in fact the opposite is true,” says Äijö.

Strength training using weights can actually help prevent joint injuries and improve overall joint health.

“Anyone’s body can weaken due to low activity levels, illnesses, or injuries—but this is more common with age. As a result, a person may feel fatigued, their movement may slow down, and balance may become an issue. But it is never too late to make a change,” Äijö continues.

Even small amounts of physical activity are better than none. Exercise improves overall health and also has positive effects on sleep and mental well-being. Older adults should aim to engage in at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity activity per week.

“You can divide the weekly exercise across the days—aiming for at least 30 minutes of activity daily. In addition, strength and balance training should be done twice a week,” advises Äijö.

In honor of World Physical Therapy Day, Savonia will host a seminar on September 8th. The event will bring together all of Savonia’s physiotherapy students and lecturers, along with prominent experts from around the world via remote connection.

The national portion of the seminar will include participants from the Finnish Association of Physiotherapists and the local North Savo Physiotherapists Association.