Staying independent as we age isn’t just about living at home — it’s about having the strength, balance, confidence, and energy to continue doing the things that matter most to you.

Regular, appropriate movement supports independence by improving the physical abilities we rely on every day, including:

Strength for Daily Tasks

Loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) accelerates with age, increasing the risk of falls and loss of independence. Strength training helps maintain the muscle needed for:

• Standing up from chairs or toilets
• Carrying shopping or household items
• Maintaining posture and stability

Balance and Falls Prevention

Balance declines with age due to changes in muscle strength, joint function, vision, and reaction time. Structured balance training can:

• Reduce falls risk
• Improve confidence when walking
• Support safe movement in the home and community

Mobility and Joint Health

Regular movement keeps joints mobile and reduces stiffness, supporting:

• Easier walking and transfers
• Improved range of motion
• Reduced fear of movement after injury or illness

For people concerned about unsteadiness or recent falls, our Balance and Falls Prevention Exercise Physiology programs focus on improving stability, confidence, and safe movement for everyday life.

Cardiovascular Health and Endurance

Maintaining heart and lung fitness supports:

• Better stamina for daily activities
• Reduced fatigue
• Ongoing participation in social and community activities

Confidence and Mental Wellbeing

Staying active is strongly linked to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and greater confidence — all of which play a key role in remaining independent and socially connected.

Exercise physiology is not generic exercise or fitness training. It is a clinical, evidence-based health service delivered by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP).

At Healthsmart Exercise Physiology, programs are designed to:

• Match your health conditions, mobility, and confidence level
• Progress safely at a pace that suits you
• Address real-world goals such as walking further, improving balance, or reducing falls risk
• Adapt as your needs change over time

Programs commonly focus on:

• Strength and resistance training
• Balance and coordination exercises
• Functional movements for daily activities
• Cardiovascular conditioning
• Education and reassurance to build confidence

Sessions may be delivered in clinic, or for those who prefer to exercise in familiar surroundings, home-based exercise physiology sessions allow programs to be delivered safely and effectively in your own home using everyday equipment.

Many people worry that chronic or complex health conditions will limit their independence. In reality, appropriate exercise is one of the most effective tools for managing conditions such as:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Osteoporosis
• Diabetes and heart disease
• Neurological conditions
• Chronic pain and fatigue
• Reduced mobility following illness or hospitalisation

Exercise physiology programs are carefully designed to be safe, achievable, and specific to your condition — helping you stay active without fear of worsening symptoms. Our Chronic Disease Management Exercise Physiology services support people living with arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and other long-term conditions to stay active and independent.

Many older Australians can access exercise physiology services with little or no out-of-pocket cost through government-funded programs, including:

Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM)

Eligible individuals may receive Medicare rebates for exercise physiology sessions with a GP referral.

Support at Home – Aged Care Packages (HCP)

Exercise physiology can be included as part of an approved Home Care Package to support mobility, strength, and independence at home.

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

CHSP funding may support short-term or entry-level exercise physiology services for older adults.

Navigating funding can be confusing — we assist clients and families in understanding eligibility and accessing the right supports.

No. It is never too late to benefit from movement.

Programs are tailored to your current abilities — whether you are returning to exercise after illness, rebuilding confidence after a fall, or simply wanting to stay active as you age.

Even small improvements in strength and balance can make a meaningful difference to independence and quality of life.

Do I need to be fit to start exercise physiology?
No. Programs are designed for all ability levels and start at a safe, achievable point.

Can exercise help reduce my risk of falls?
Yes. Targeted strength and balance training is one of the most effective ways to reduce falls risk.

Are sessions available at home?
Yes. Exercise physiology sessions can be delivered in your home, clinic, or as a combination of both.

Can exercise help with chronic pain or joint problems?
Yes. Carefully prescribed exercise can reduce pain, improve mobility, and increase confidence.

Staying independent as you age is about planning, support, and taking proactive steps to maintain your health and mobility.

If you or a loved one would like guidance on safe, personalised exercise to support independence, we’re here to help.

👉 Book an exercise physiology assessment or contact Healthsmart Exercise Physiology to discuss your needs and funding options.

Matthew Wratten is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with over 25 years’ experience supporting healthy ageing, strength, balance, and long-term independence.

He provides clinic-based and mobile exercise physiology services across the Gold Coast, specialising in evidence-based exercise programs that support longevity, mobility, and quality of life.

Matthew is the director of Healthsmart Exercise Physiology, helping adults of all ages maintain function, confidence, and independence through safe, structured exercise.

[View Matthew’s profile] | [Exercise physiology services]