INTRODUCTION: The study identified prevalent physical problems with regard to physiotherapy needs in elderly
people in the Livingstone District in Zambia.
OBJECTIVES: To identify the physiotherapy needs of common physical problems in the elderly.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study design, utilising a quantitative research method and a convenience sampling
technique. Participants: A total of 200 elderly people from the age of 60 years
SETTING: Livingstone District in Zambia
INTERVENTION: A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data.
RESULTS: The most common self-reported physical problems identified were musculoskeletal problems, physical
inactivity, decreased ability to walk and the need for walking aids. Hypertension was a common cardiovascular
disorder.
CONCLUSION: Physiotherapists are ideally suited to alleviate the discomfort, activity limitation and participation
restriction associated with ageing
