As the world’s population continues to live longer than ever before, the challenges are changing. The concern is no longer about increasing life expectancy – it is about improving the quality of life during those years. The answer lies in the theme of World Physiotherapy Day (which falls on 8 September) this year: “healthy aging and falls prevention”.
Active or healthy aging is a lifestyle approach that encourages older adults to remain physically active, mentally sharp, socially engaged, and emotionally fulfilled. It is a proactive strategy designed to maintain independence, dignity, and well-being in later life.
Aging is inevitable, but addiction doesn’t have to be; with the right lifestyle choices, older adults can continue doing what they love for as long as possible.
Active aging
Active aging is not just about avoiding disease. It’s about making conscious, daily choices that promote: physical fitness through regular exercise; mental agility through reading, puzzles, or lifelong learning; social connections through staying in community; and emotional well-being through relationships and purpose-driven living.
The goal is simple: to stay healthy, strong, and self-reliant.
Research shows that older adults who embrace an active lifestyle experience many health benefits, including a reduced risk of falls and chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis; improved memory and cognitive function; lower rates of depression and loneliness, and an increased ability to perform daily tasks independently.
Tips for active aging
Walk at least 30 minutes a day
Join a local club or community group
Do brain-stimulating activities, such as puzzles or reading
Eat fresh, home-cooked meals
Practice meditation or yoga for emotional balance
Lessons from the past
While today’s society often focuses on technology and trends in health solutions, previous generations thrived on simpler, more natural ways. These include:
Fresh, home-cooked meals: Their diet was rich in whole grains, vegetables, lentils, and fermented foods. The meals were seasonal, portion-controlled, and free of the processed ingredients commonly used today.
Daily movement: From farming and walking to cycling and housework, physical activity was a part of daily life – no gym membership was required.
Strong social bonds: Living in joint families and close-knit communities offered constant emotional support. Shared meals, festivals, and rituals fostered spiritual well-being.
Harmony with nature: Early to bed and early to rise, clean air, minimal pollution, and low exposure to harmful habits like smoking and junk food contributed to lower rates of lifestyle diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.
The way forward
In a world grappling with rising obesity, stress, and chronic disease, the wisdom of the past may offer the key to a healthier future. Experts suggest that by returning to Whole Foods, active living, and meaningful human connection, modern society can address many of its current health challenges.
Our grandparents’ greatest health secret wasn’t found in expensive gyms or trendy diets; it was in their simple, balanced lifestyles. As the population ages, policymakers, families, and individuals are being urged to promote active aging—not just as a health goal, but as a cultural mindset.
(Pirai Sudan J. is a physiotherapist with Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore. Piraisudan.j@naruvihospitals.com)
Published – September 16, 2025 12:10 PM IST
