Aim
Volunteering enhances healthy ageing by fostering social interaction, support, and physical activity. Physiotherapist volunteers are well-positioned to design and promote physical activity programs, improving community health. This study explored current volunteering practices among Australian physiotherapists and assessed their potential for future involvement in health promotion.
Methods
An online survey of 520 Australian physiotherapists gathered data on volunteering intentions, motivators, engagement preferences, attitudes, and demographics.
Results
Half of the respondents were active volunteers, and 94% expressed interest in future volunteering, preferably face-to-face (60%). Key factors associated with current volunteering included older age (45–54: OR 3.69, 95% CI 1.50–9.11; 55+: OR 3.86, 95% CI 1.31–11.34), formal employment (full-time: OR 6.62, 95% CI 2.51–17.48; part-time: OR 4.69, 95% CI 1.64–13.39), clinical roles (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.04–2.08), and rural work experience (current: OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.04–2.12; previous: OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.88–4.75). Facilitators included suitable activities and availability. Motivators were helping others (85%) and family involvement (62%). Preferred areas were community events (88%), physical activity promotion (84%), and health education (82%). Most believed volunteering benefits the community (88%), makes a difference (83%), and addresses social issues (86%).
Conclusion
Physiotherapists are highly motivated to volunteer and recognise their impact on public health. Targeted programs are needed to optimize engagement and maximize the benefits of physiotherapist-led volunteering initiatives.