Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy4

Get help with movement and getting around, injuries and/or pain conditions.

What is it?

Help with movement, injuries and/or pain conditions. We can provide advice on walking aids, individualised and group exercise programs including water exercise.

Who can use this service?

Anyone 65 years and over (50 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)

If you're 64 years and under, see our Health Services page.

Cost

There is a small fee for some of our services. Some of our services are free.

Check our fees here.

Do I need a referral?

Yes. You will need a referral from My Aged Care who will carry out an assessment.

A doctor or health professional can refer you to My Aged Care. See 'Make a booking'.

Location

We also provide a limited home visiting service for Moreland residents.

See all locations.

Make a booking

Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. Tell them you want Merri Health as your preferred provider.

Your doctor or health professional can also complete this online form.


More information

What is My Aged Care?

My Aged Care is the main entry point into the aged care system in Australia.

When you call them, tell them you want Merri Health as your preferred provider. My Aged Care will then arrange an assessment for you.

I need help calling My Aged Care

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, call the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask to be connected to 1800 200 422.

I need an interpreter to call My Aged Care

If you need an interpreter, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask to be connected to 1800 200 422.

Where can I get more information about this service?

Call 1300 637 744 (MERRI H). We can help you with information about eligibility for services and advice on which service will help you with your needs.


Frequently Asked Questions

How can a physiotherapist help me?

We can help you to manage injuries and physical problems with:

1. Assessment and treatment

Assess your needs and provide treatment on a short-term basis. We can help you with problems such as back and neck pain, muscle strains, arthritis, incontinence, unsteadiness on your feet and other issues. We also assess people for gait aids such as walking frames.

2. Groups and individual exercises

Assess your needs and recommend a home exercise program or a group program that may include water or land-based exercises.

3. Health education and promotion

Provide education and exercise programs that promote healthy behaviours and reduce the risk of injury or disease, such as the Falls and Balance program which helps to improve balance and reduce the risk of falling.

What should I expect on my first visit?

In your initial session with the physiotherapist, you can expect:

  • An assessment of your condition
  • Development of a treatment or prevention plan that will take into account your goals, lifestyle, activities and general health
  • Advice on your condition and best recommended management strategies
  • Prescription of appropriate exercises

What do I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?

Wear suitable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. You may also be asked to expose affected body part as part of assessment and treatment but if you are uncomfortable doing so, let your physiotherapist know.

I think that my family member would benefit from this service. Can I call Service Access on their behalf?

Yes, you can contact our service access team on behalf of your family member to discuss their referral.

This service is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health. Visit the Department of Health website for more information.

Although the funding for this service has been provided by the Australian Government, the material contained herein does not necessarily represent the views or policies of the Australian Government.