The "Regulation on Nursing Homes and Elderly Care and Rehabilitation Centers", published in the Official Gazette on May 6, 2026, has come into effect, updating the rehabilitation processes in elderly care and the jurisdictions of health professionals.

Holistic Approach to Rehabilitation Services

In the regulation, rehabilitation is defined as all activities aimed at determining the functional capacities of the elderly and making them independent in activities of daily living. Physical therapy and rehabilitation services will be carried out by the "Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy Unit" established within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities of Physiotherapists (Article 51)

  • Implementing physiotherapy programs according to the diagnosis made by a specialist physician.
  • Preparing physical exercise programs for healthy elderly individuals to improve their physical strength.
  • Providing information to prevent falls, identifying environmental risks, and ensuring necessary environmental arrangements.
  • Actively participating in individual care plans from the perspective of physical activity and rehabilitation.

Multidisiplinary Coordination and Training

The new regulation has strengthened teamwork by mandating the participation of the physiotherapy unit in structures such as the "Care Evaluation Team". Especially in the Third and Fourth Level care units, it is mandated that physiotherapists provide training to care personnel on correct transfer techniques and back health.

Authorization for Academic Research

As a significant innovation for professional development, physiotherapists are permitted to conduct research on subjects suitable for the service objectives of the institution and report the results.