РОЛЬ ФІЗИЧНОЇ ТЕРАПІЇ ЯК ПРОВІДНОЇ СКЛАДОВОЇ РЕАБІЛІТАЦІЇ В ГЕРОНТОЛОГІЇ ТА ГЕРІАТРІЇ

Abstract. Relevance of the Research Topic. Population aging is one of the most significant socio-economic and medical challenges of the contemporary world and is associated with an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, functional limitations in daily activities, and a decline in independence among older adults. In the context of ongoing reforms in the national healthcare system of Ukraine, there is a growing demand for the implementation of modern, patient-centered approaches to physical therapy. These approaches aim not only to preserve and support motor function in older individuals but also to enhance emotional well-being, facilitate social adaptation, and improve overall quality of life. The aim of this study is to identify and analyze contemporary approaches to physical therapy for geriatric patients, taking into account the reform of the national healthcare system and international rehabilitation standards. Material and methods. The research methodology includes a theoretical analysis of scientific and methodological literature, regulatory and legal documents issued by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, as well as a review of publications indexed in PubMed and other scientific electronic databases. The study is grounded in the principles of the biopsychosocial model and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), which serve as a framework for the development of individualized rehabilitation programs and the assessment of patients’ functional capacity. Results. The findings indicate that effective physical therapy for geriatric patients requires a comprehensive and integrated approach, including various forms of therapeutic exercise (breathing, general conditioning, aerobic, stretching and flexibility exercises, strength training, endurance development, balance and coordination training), as well as manual therapy techniques, massage, aquatic procedures, conditioning practices, fine motor skills training, and adaptive interventions. Physical therapy programs should be individualized, taking into consideration age-related physiological changes, comorbid conditions, and the psycho-emotional state of the patient. The most favorable outcomes are achieved through the combination of physical therapy with an active lifestyle, balanced nutrition, appropriate work–rest regimens, conditioning practices, and social integration. Key Conclusions. Physical therapy constitutes a fundamental component of comprehensive rehabilitation for geriatric patients and is aimed at maintaining and partially restoring lost functions, increasing functional independence, and improving quality of life. The implementation of individualized rehabilitation programs based on the biopsychosocial model and the ICF facilitates effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, allows for the adaptation of interventions to patients’ specific needs, and contributes to the prevention of secondary complications and the progression of chronic conditions. Further research should focus on identifying optimal physical therapy protocols and adapting international best practices to the healthcare system of Ukraine.