As we get older, a recent fall or time in hospital can make simple tasks feel harder. Home physiotherapy brings expert assessment and rehabilitation into your own environment, so that advice and exercises can be tailored to the layout of your home and your daily routines.
Key Takeaways
- Home physiotherapy provides personalised care to improve strength, balance, and day-to-day function without the need to travel.
- It is particularly effective after a hospital stay, following a fall, or for managing the symptoms of a long-term condition.
In This Article
Who Can Benefit from Home Physiotherapy?
Home-based physiotherapy is designed to help older adults maintain their function and confidence. It is especially valuable for individuals who are:
- Recovering from a hospital stay: Rebuilding strength and confidence after surgery (such as a hip or knee replacement) or a period of illness.
- At risk of falls: Targeted balance and strength exercises can significantly lower the risk of future falls and related injuries. Learn more about our falls prevention physiotherapy.
- Managing a long-term condition: Regular physiotherapy can help maintain function and manage the symptoms of conditions like arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, or MS.
- Experiencing general deconditioning: If daily tasks like getting out of a chair, climbing stairs, or walking outdoors feel harder than they used to, a personalised home rehabilitation plan can help.
What a Good Home Physio Plan Involves
A professional home physiotherapy service is more than just exercises. A comprehensive care plan is a collaborative process that typically includes:
- Initial Assessment: A thorough review of your medical history, current challenges, and a detailed assessment of your mobility, balance, and strength.
- Personalised Goal-Setting: We work with you to set clear, meaningful, and realistic goals, such as being able to walk to the local shop and back twice a week.
- A Tailored Treatment Plan: This includes a simple home exercise programme, strategies for managing daily tasks (like navigating stairs or getting out of bed), and advice on pacing your activity.
- Ongoing Education & Review: We provide education on managing your condition and conduct regular check-ins to adapt your exercises and measure your progress.
A Simple Starter Exercise Routine
Safety First: The following exercises are for general guidance only. Please consult with a qualified therapist to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition. Always work within a safe and comfortable range of motion and use a sturdy surface for support if needed.
1. Sit-to-Stand
From a sturdy chair with arms, stand up and sit down slowly and with control. Aim to use your hands for support as little as is safely possible.
Reps & Sets: 5–10 reps, 2–3 sets.
2. Heel Raises
While holding onto a stable surface like a kitchen worktop, rise up onto your toes, pause for a moment, and then slowly lower your heels back down.
Reps & Sets: 8–12 reps, 2–3 sets.
3. Marching on the Spot
Lightly holding your support surface, slowly lift one knee up towards your chest. Lower it with control and repeat with the other leg at a steady pace.
Reps & Sets: 20–40 total steps.
4. Semi-Tandem Stand
Standing next to your support, place the heel of one foot just in front of the toes of your other foot. Hold this position for 10–30 seconds if you can do so safely. Swap sides.
Reps & Sets: 3–5 times each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should physiotherapy sessions be?
This varies depending on your goals and health status. Many people start with weekly sessions and then reduce the frequency as their confidence and function improve.
Do I need any special equipment?
Usually not. We design our programmes around everyday household items, like a sturdy chair or a kitchen worktop. If simple equipment like resistance bands could help later on, your therapist will discuss this with you.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, a GP referral is not required to see a private physiotherapist in the UK. However, it is always helpful to share any relevant medical information with your therapist.
The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for a personalised assessment from a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult with a therapist for advice tailored to your specific condition.
Final Thoughts
Home physiotherapy offers a valuable and highly effective way for older adults to look after their physical health. It provides professional, personalised care that is not only convenient but also deeply integrated into an individual’s daily life, fostering greater independence, safety, and confidence at home.
