As the years go by, many elders find themselves quietly fading into the background of daily life, their routines shrinking, their social circles thinning and their bodies gradually losing the strength and mobility that once came so naturally. Days can feel long and uneventful, marked by stillness rather than motion. Recognising this often-overlooked reality, the Foundation of Goodness launched the Strength in Motion – Physiotherapy Awareness and Support Programme for Elders under its Good Care for Elders initiative, in collaboration with the Active Plus Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre.
The session, held on 7th October 2025 at the Medical Area and Sick Room of the Centre of Excellence in Seenigama, aimed to enhance the physical well-being of elders while reminding them that staying active is not just about health, it is about dignity, independence and joy.
A total of 18 elders and 11 staff members participated, guided by physiotherapists Dr. Sachira De Zoysa and Dr. Sewwandi Udara from the Active Plus team. The programme was carefully structured to address common age-related conditions such as frozen shoulder, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and back and neck pain, ailments that often make everyday tasks challenging and painful.
The session began with an awareness discussion on musculoskeletal health, where participants learned how posture, balance and gentle movement can prevent stiffness and discomfort. This was followed by individual guidance sessions, one-on-one evaluations that many elders said they found immensely valuable. For some, it was their first opportunity to receive personalised physiotherapy advice.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter and curiosity as the physiotherapists demonstrated simple stretching and strengthening exercises that could easily be practised at home. For instance, elders were shown how to improve shoulder mobility by rotating their arms gently or how to relieve back tension with slow, guided stretches. These exercises, though modest, are powerful tools for maintaining mobility and preventing pain, a reminder that strength, indeed, begins with motion.
While some elders were engaged in their consultations, others enjoyed music therapy and art therapy sessions organised nearby. Soft melodies played in the background as participants painted and sang, transforming the waiting area into a space of warmth and creativity. One elder commented that it had been years since she had painted anything and that the experience made her “feel young again.”
The outcomes of the session went far beyond physical improvement. Participants left with greater confidence in performing safe exercises at home, a better understanding of their bodies and renewed enthusiasm for staying active. Perhaps most importantly, they left with a sense of belonging, a reminder that they are not forgotten, but cared for and valued.
Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Foundation of Goodness plans to introduce regular group exercise sessions for elders, ensuring continued engagement and well-being through movement and social connection.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Active Plus Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre, Dr. Sachira De Zoysa, Dr. Sewwandi Udara, who supported this meaningful initiative. Together, they have helped bring renewed vitality, confidence and hope to our cherished elders, proving that no matter one’s age, strength truly lies in motion.
