Share the Care: Refer a friend to Trilogy Care

Share the Care Refer a Friend

Are you happy with the care and support you receive from Trilogy Care? We believe that the best recommendations come from those who’ve experienced our services firsthand, which is why we’re excited to introduce Share the Care, our referral program!

By referring friends, family, or acquaintances to Trilogy Care, you can help others receive the high-quality home care they deserve. Plus, for every successful referral where your friend selects Trilogy Care as their Home Care Package provider, you’ll receive a $100 Bill Fairy voucher.

Friends helping friends – it’s the best kind of care.

Why refer a friend?

Help your friends: Ensure your friends and family get the same trusted, quality care you receive.

Strengthen community: Build a community of well-cared-for individuals with Trilogy Care.

Earn rewards: Enjoy a $100 Bill Fairy voucher for each successful referral.

By participating in Share the Care, you’re not only helping others discover top-quality home care but also earning rewards as our way of saying thank you. Start referring today and enjoy the benefits of sharing Trilogy Care’s exceptional services!

How to refer a friend

Referring someone to Trilogy Care is simple:

Referral link: Share your unique referral link directly with friends, family, or acquaintances through email, social media, or any other communication methods.

Direct contact: Alternatively, the referral may call Trilogy Care and provide the referee’s details over the phone.

Refer now

Eligibility

To ensure the success of our referral program, the following criteria must be met:

Referrer eligibility

Current care recipient or authorised representative: The referrer must be an active Trilogy Care care recipient or authorised representative of a current Trilogy Care care recipient with at least three (3) months of continuous service at the time of the referral.

Valid contact details: The referrer must provide accurate contact information for the person being referred.

Consent: The referrer must have obtained explicit consent from the referred person to share their contact information with Trilogy Care.

Referred person eligibility

New to Trilogy Care: The referred individual must not have previously or currently received services from Trilogy Care.

Service agreement: The referred individual must have a current Home Care Package and agree to receive services from Trilogy Care as a result of the referral.

Three months of service: The referred individual must remain a care recipient with Trilogy Care for at least three (3) consecutive months.

Referral criteria

To take part in the Share the Care program, your referral must be a new contact who hasn’t previously used Trilogy Care’s services.

By joining our Refer a Friend initiative, you’re not only helping others discover high-quality home care but also receiving rewards as a thank you from us. Start referring today and share the benefits of Trilogy Care’s exceptional services with your community!

For more details, please refer to the terms and conditions  on our website.

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at marketing@trilogycare.com.au

Joe’s Reconciliation: From hidden roots to proud ancestry

Two men celebrating National Reconciliation Week 2024 with a selfie

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for reflection, learning, and coming together as a nation to build relationships and promote understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It’s a time to acknowledge the past, celebrate the present, and look towards a more harmonious future. 

Joe, a Trilogy Care recipient, shared his journey to reconnect with his culture and history, shedding light on the challenges  many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals encounter while striving to reclaim and celebrate their ancestry. 

Although Joe was born Christopher James Hall, when his grandfather first saw him as a baby he exclaimed, “That’s my little Joe right there!”. From that day forward, he became known to all as Joe.  

Growing up, Joe was unaware of his Indigenous heritage as his mother kept their ancestry a secret. 

“Our mum was somewhat prejudiced about our black heritage. Although we’re not fully black in colour, we never understood why she kept it hidden. After her passing, a lot was revealed by uncles and aunties. We are proud to be Aboriginal, and now we are welcomed by our heritage elders.”  

Following his mother’s passing, Joe and his sister sought to reconnect with their heritage. After researching the family and discovering they have Cantwell Partridge heritage dating back to the 1800s, Joe and his sister visited Mindaribba to present evidence of their ancestry.  

“Well, the elders said ‘Welcome to the family. Good to see you. Come back to us.’ And then they said, ‘you need to be named’. So, my sister was named Tiriki which means bright star and I was named Kuway Kuway which means proud man.”  

Being accepted into the family and recognised as uncle and auntie by the younger generation brought a sense of belonging and validation to Joe and his sister.  

“To be accepted straight away, it’s amazing. And they walk past now and say, ‘hey uncle’ and it gives you a great feeling inside that you’re accepted back into the family.”  

Joe’s connection with his culture has been a guiding force throughout his life, influencing his personal and professional paths.  

About five years ago, I went to an Aboriginal seminar. They put name tags on us, of course. And my last name is Hall. But mum’s last name was Bates. I looked around and saw all these ‘Bates’. All the name tags ‘Bates, Bates, Bates’, and I’m going ‘hang on’. I walked up to one guy and said, ‘Are you from Sydney? My grandfather is, and his name is Lionel George Bates’ and the guy replied, ‘Yeah, he’s part of the family’. I couldn’t believe it.” Joe’s exploration of his roots has shifted his perspective, bringing a renewed sense of purpose and identity to his daily life. By engaging with his community and culture, he has not only rediscovered his history but also reclaimed it after it was obscured for much of his youth. 

Joe’s journey, especially when it comes to care and supports, has not been without its challenges. In the past, he encountered discrimination and bureaucratic struggles when seeking care services. Since shifting to Trilogy Care, Joe expressed how easy it is to access the support he needs to live the life he wants.  

“Being self-managed allows me to choose services that align with my cultural beliefs. I can pick and choose what I want and how I want it. I also have to put in a good word for Madison [my care partner]. She’s a great girl. I only have to drop her an email and it’s solved within a day or two at most.” 

By listening, advocating, and adapting to individual circumstances, Trilogy Care has shown that quality care is not just about providing services, but about building meaningful and respectful relationships.  

“They’re not prejudiced. They’ve never said anything like ‘well, because you’re Aboriginal…’ they don’t use those type of words. They just treat as they would anyone else.” 

As Joe continues to navigate his care journey, he remains committed to advocating for his rights and embracing his heritage with pride. He emphasises the importance of listening to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories and experiences while also being mindful of potential misconceptions. Joe’s experience highlights the importance of compassionate and culturally competent care in creating positive outcomes for all individuals, regardless of background or circumstance. 

Reflections on Reconciliation: A story of identity and culture

Trilogy Care employee celebrating National Reconciliation Week 2024 with the hashtag #NRW2024.

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to come together to reflect on the shared history and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.  

Held annually from May 27 to June 3 , these dates mark two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey. May 27   is the anniversary of the 1967 referendum, in which over 90% of Australians voted to remove discriminatory clauses from the Australian Constitution and recognise Indigenous Australians as equal citizens. June 3 is the anniversary of the High Court’s landmark 1992 Mabo decision, which recognised the rights of Indigenous peoples to their land and paved the way for Native Title legislation. 

Although reconciliation recognises the resilience and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and cultures, everyone’s experience and connection with National Reconciliation Week and what it means to them is unique. 

For Warren Peisker (they/them), a valued team member at Trilogy Care, reconciliation is a time to reflect on their own journey of self-discovery, to connect with their family, culture, and ancestry, and to recognise the struggles and successes of preserving Indigenous culture in a modern society.   

Born to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mother and an Australian father with Polish and Italian heritage, Warren grew up with a deep respect for diversity and an understanding of their cultural heritage. However, a pivotal moment in Warren’s childhood led to the realisation that others viewed them as different. When they were in the third grade, Warren’s then best friend targeted them because of their skin colour. “I remember going home and I looked in the mirror for the first time and saw I was different. And then I had all these questions. Why am I different? Why do I have to be different?” 

As Warren grew up, they observed that society often equated beauty with characteristics like fair skin, blonde hair, and blue eyes, which didn’t align with their appearance.  

“Society has these projections and you do internalise that. You develop a sort of internal racism. You’re constantly reminded by society that you’re different. And you can also be reminded by your own family. 

“I’ve got aunties, uncles, and cousins that are up in the Cook Islands, and they’re immersed in the culture, some of them are even artists, and they live and breathe the culture. And then there are others in my family who don’t like being differentiated. They see themselves as equal, probably as an Australian who just happens to have a different background like anyone else that’s migrated here or is culturally diverse.” 

Warren’s grandmother was part of the stolen generation, which has meant that many traditions have unfortunately been lost. Even though some traditions couldn’t be passed down, Warren is devoted to learning about and protecting their ancestry. “I’m finding things out, not just about my own culture but even my family history. My grandma, she’s 83 years old now. Probably within the last 20 years, she found her sister. So, they’ve rekindled their relationship.” 

Dreamtime stories shared throughout their life by aunties and uncles have helped them connect with their past and culture.

“When I was a kid, I remember asking ‘Can you tell us a story?’ and aunties and uncles would share stories about the bunya or the rainbow serpent, and sometimes I’m sure they even made-up stories. But I’ve found elements of their stories over the years when I’ve been reading or immersing myself in my culture, and other cultures.” 

Even though their family relates to culture in different ways, Warren acknowledges that their upbringing has shaped them into someone who embraces their identity.  

“The person that I am today, is someone that accepts to a degree who I am, but I’m also constantly reminded that I’m in the minority. I’m on my own journey to work out what it means to live my authenticity.”

As Warren continues their journey of self-discovery and learning about their culture and history, they also navigate the challenges of being a minority in the workplace.  

“If no one has met me before, there’s often a predetermined view of who they’re going to meet. My last name is Polish/German, and then they’re faced with myself and it’s like ‘Oh! That’s not who I thought you’d be.’ So, yeah. It’s definitely not easy.” 

Since starting with Trilogy Care, initially as a care partner and now as a care inclusion and resolution specialist, Warren seamlessly fit into the culture and community.  

“There are not many workplaces out there where I’ve been able to say ‘yes, this is a workplace that’s inclusive and I feel like I can be myself’. I think that’s the one thing I’ve been searching for in a workplace. So, stepping into Trilogy Care, I believe we’re an extension of the community; we have a workforce that’s very open. There’s culture here. There’s a sense of community. And yeah, I’m excited to see where that goes because it can only lead to success.” 

As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Warren recognises the significance of providing accessibility for individuals who may not have encountered someone from their community before, especially in the workplace. They aim to dispel negative stereotypes and foster a cultural understanding.  

“Irrespective of the workplace or environment I’m in, it’s about showcasing the best version of myself. Letting my effort and work speak for who I am. But also, openly communicating and sharing where I can – my story, my culture, my background. To proudly share the perspective of an Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander.”

National Reconciliation Week in Australia serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging, understanding, and celebrating the history and culture of Indigenous Australians. It provides an opportunity for all Australians to come together, reflect on the past, and work towards a shared future based on mutual respect, understanding, and recognition. By participating in events, discussions, and acts of reconciliation, we can all contribute to building a more inclusive and harmonious society for generations to come. Let us continue to strive for reconciliation and unity, both during this dedicated week and throughout the year. 

Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care.

Trilogy care nurses

International Nurses Day (IND) is celebrated every year on 12 May on the birth date of the founder of modern nursing – Florence Nightingale. This day is dedicated to honouring the hard work and commitment to care provided by the more than 27 million nurses and midwives worldwide.

On this day (and every day), it’s important to not only say “thank you” to the nurses who have impacted our lives, but also to reflect on the ongoing contribution they provide to healthcare.

This year’s IND theme is ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care’. The theme highlights the crucial role that nurses play in not just providing healthcare services but also contributing to the economy. Nurses are an integral part of the healthcare system, and their work has a profound impact on the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The theme emphasises the importance of investing in nurses and recognising the economic value of the care they provide.

“INC [International Council of Nurses] has chosen to focus IND 2024 on the economic power of care with the aim to reshape perceptions and demonstrate how strategic investment in nursing can bring considerable economic and societal benefits.”

Alongside the millions of nurses being celebrated this International Nurses Day, we wanted to shine a light on the dedicated enrolled nurses and clinical nurses at Trilogy Care. Our nursing team provide invaluable daily telehealth support, education, and key clinical information to assist our care recipients, as well as providing additional support for carers. 

Every nurse has a story. A reason for doing what they do and working in an equally challenging and rewarding industry. This is no different for the enrolled and clinical nurses at Trilogy Care.

Many of our nursing team were inspired by a family history of nurses and healthcare professionals.

“I was influenced by my family members. My older sister is a nurse too. My mum worked in aged care.” Yurina, clinical nurse at Trilogy Care

While others were curious.

“I just wanted to know how it all works and I didn’t know where to go. I spoke to different people, and nursing was one option. So, I decided to pursue that.” David enrolled nurse at Trilogy Care

And some were influenced by their love of people… among other things!

“I wanted to become a nurse because I love people and I love connecting with people. And I love gross things.” Isobel, enrolled nurse at Trilogy Care

One of the newest additions to the Trilogy Care clinical nurse team, Renu, shared her story of what inspired her to become a nurse.

“I’m from Nepal and I’m the first nurse in my family. My grandmother was very sick when I was in school. I watched the nurses work when I stayed with my grandmother in hospital. And that’s what inspired me to become a nurse. She passed away in 2014, and in 2015 I joined nursing. Studying as an international student in Australia and working at the same time wasn’t easy. I’ve done everything from customer service to cleaning, whatever I found. I paid all my fees myself which I’m proud of. It was tough. But I did it. And I’m here now. I work as a registered nurse and as a clinical nurse as well. Now, I’m about to start a new journey which I’m very excited to start. I have an excellent team here. Everyone’s great. And I think this is a good place to be.”

The incredible nursing team at Trilogy Care are an eclectic bunch with experience ranging from working in a dementia unit through to being a personal nurse for touring musicians.

“I’ve worked at some of the most major venues in the country, for concerts and festivals. Probably the biggest concert I worked on was Ed Sheeran back in 2021. And the strangest thing I’ve done was work as Meatloaf’s personal nurse when he was in Brisbane. That was interesting.” Bradley, clinical nurse team leader at Trilogy Care

Despite their diverse experiences, their passion for nursing and providing care to those who need it brings the nursing team together. For many of our nurses, including clinical nurse Rhiannon, one of the most rewarding aspects is the opportunity to form deep connections with their patients and families. “I enjoy the interaction with real people and being able to support them through their real-life situations and being appreciated. Just listening or giving advice or showing that you care is really rewarding. That’s the main reason I do it.”

While nursing is a fulfilling and rewarding profession, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Sarah, one of our enrolled nurses shared, “It’s a hard job. And it’s not for everyone. It’s not something that you can go ‘Oh yeah. I’m just going to walk into it thinking that everything’s going to be okay’. Every day is different. You can have a great day. You can have an awful day. It’s one of those jobs where you need to be the right person for it.”

However, as tough as nursing can be, the rewards outweigh the challenges for the team at Trilogy Care.

“As nurses, I think we should celebrate International Nurses Day with open hearts, with a smile on our face. It’s not all about how you struggle but celebrating the rewards. Keep positive and keep going.” Renu, clinical nurse at Trilogy Care

In light of International Nurses Day 2024, nurses around the world are sharing positive messages of hope and encouragement for current and prospective nurses. To inspire the next generation of nurses to pursue a career in healthcare and be proud of the important work they do.

“I think the best advice that I can give to young nurses and budding nurses is that it’s going to be hard, but if you persevere, it will be incredibly rewarding.” Xerxes, enrolled nurse at Trilogy Care

To all the nurses worldwide, and especially to our Trilogy Care nurses – thank you for your tireless efforts, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare. Happy International Nurses Day!

Stress management for seniors

The image shows two men, one older and one younger, sharing a cheerful moment over drinks and a barbecue at a campsite with their motorhome nearby.

Staying healthy and living your best life is important at any age. However, with changes like retirement, relocation, and health challenges, it’s unsurprising that many older Australians experience the toll stress can take on their mental and physical wellbeing. Understanding what stress is and how it can affect you is the first step in managing and minimising the impact it can have on your daily life.

Understanding stress

Stress is a natural response that our bodies have to situations that are perceived as threats. It triggers a flood of hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, that prepare us for fight or flight. While this response can be helpful in short bursts, chronic stress can have serious consequences for our health.

Some common stressors for seniors include:

  • Health issues
  • Financial concerns
  • Loss of loved ones
  • Loneliness or boredom
  • Major life changes
  • Changes in living arrangements
  • Disrupted sleep patterns.

While we don’t always have control over stressful situations or moments in our lives, there are plenty of effective stress management techniques we can use to reduce stress and lead a happier, healthier life.

Tips for stress reduction

Tip #1: Stay active

Regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. It can help you release built-up tension, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels. Whether it’s going for a walk, swimming, or practising yoga, finding an activity that you can enjoy on a regular basis can make a big difference in managing your stress. Remember to always check with your healthcare provider when trying new exercises to ensure it’s the right choice for your needs.

Tip #2 Pursue hobbies

While regular exercise is great for your physical health, hobbies such as reading, gardening, listening to music, painting, or sewing can be beneficial for your mental health. Engaging in activities you enjoy, can help you to recharge and rejuvenate, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Not to mention, finding a hobby you love can be a lot of fun.

Tip #3: Practice relaxation techniques

There are many relaxation techniques that can help you unwind and reduce stress, including deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation. It’s important to take time for yourself each day to practice your relaxation and self-care techniques to feel calmer and more centred.

Tip #4: Prioritise sleep

It’s essential to ensure you get enough sleep each night to rejuvenate your body and manage stress effectively. With approximately 48% of Australian adults experiencing challenges sleeping, deep and restful sleep can sometimes feel like an impossible task. The good news is, if you would like to know more about understanding and prioritising sleep, you can explore our blogs on the common causes of problems and tips to improve your sleep quality.

Tip #5: Stay social

Maintaining social connections is important for our mental health. Loneliness and isolation can contribute to stress, so it’s important to stay connected with friends and family. Joining a club, volunteering, or attending community events are all great ways to stay social and combat stress. If you’d like to connect with like-minded individuals online, we have a Facebook community group where you can engage in discussions, share insights, and find additional support on your journey.

Tip #6: Seek support

It’s important to reach out for help when they need it. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or mental health professional, seeking support can make a big difference in managing stress. There are also support groups specifically for seniors that can provide a sense of community and understanding.

Taking steps to manage and minimise stress, can help you improve your quality of life and reduce the risk of developing serious health issues. It’s never too late to start implementing these strategies and prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing.

 

Tips to improve sleep habits as you age

An older man with a mustache, appearing to be in discomfort or snoring, rests in bed with his arm behind his head, alongside colorful abstract shapes in the image corners

Over time, it’s easy to develop sleep habits that hinder us from achieving a restful night’s sleep. Taking naps during the day, going to bed too early at night, or waking up too soon in the morning can disrupt our natural sleep patterns.

The good news is poor sleep doesn’t need to go hand in hand with ageing. By taking proactive steps to improve your sleep quality, you can enhance your physical and mental health, improve your mood, and increase your overall quality of life.

Get to know our top five tips to improve your sleep habits as you age and ways to implement them.

Tip #1 Maintain a consistent sleep schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to creating successful sleep patterns. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate your body’s internal clock (also known as your circadian rhythm). By sticking to a regular schedule that follows your body’s natural cycle, you can train your body to fall asleep and wake up more easily, promoting better overall sleep quality.

Tip #2 Create a comfortable sleep environment

Your bedroom setup can play a significant role in promoting a more restful, deeper sleep. A great place to start when setting up a comfortable sleep environment is with blackout curtains or a white noise machine which can help block out light and disruptive sounds. Nothing promotes comfort more than having a supportive mattress and pillows that align with your comfort preferences. This can help your body relax, especially if you have underlying physical health conditions. By keeping your bedroom cool, comfortable, quiet, and dark you can create a more optimal environment for sleep.

Tip #3 Establish a relaxing bedtime routine

Having a calm bedtime routine can signal to your body that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep. It’s best to avoid stimulating activities, such as watching TV or using electronic devices with bright screens, as they can interfere with your natural ability to wind down. Instead try incorporating activities that help you relax, such as reading a book, listening to soothing music, or practising gentle stretching exercises.  

Tip #4 Stay active during the day

Regular physical activity can be beneficial for overall health and improve your sleep quality. Moderate exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can be great options to help prepare your body for sleep. Aim to complete your workout a few hours before bedtime to allow your body enough time to wind down before bed. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for exercise recommendations that best suit your needs.

Tip #5 Seek professional help if needed

If you experience ongoing problems with your sleep cycle, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare provider or sleep specialist. They can evaluate your sleep patterns, identify any underlying issues contributing to your sleep difficulties, and recommend appropriate treatment options. This may include lifestyle modifications, cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), or medications, depending on your individual needs. 

Improving your sleep habits as you age doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these five simple tips, you can work towards achieving a more restful night’s sleep your overall quality of life. Remember, consistency, comfort, routine, activity, and seeking professional help (if needed) are key components to improving your sleep habits. So, don’t let poor sleep quality hinder your overall wellbeing – take charge of your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated each day. Your body and mind will thank you for it!

Would you like to know more? Read our article on common causes of sleep problems in seniors

Five common causes of sleep problems in seniors

Sleep Problems in Seniors: Causes and Solutions

Getting a good night’s sleep isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity for maintaining your health and vitality as you grow older. So, why do approximately 48% of Australian adults report problems sleeping? From changes to your sleep architecture to medication side effects, several factors may be keeping you up at night. Thankfully, you don’t need to settle for disrupted sleep.

Grab a cup of chamomile tea, get cozy, and let’s dive in to the top five causes of sleep problems for older Australians.

#1 Changes in sleep architecture

On average, older adults wake up three to four times a night, which can prevent you from entering a deep sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This change can cause feelings of tiredness throughout the day, as if you’ve spent most of the night awake or in a restless sleep. Even though we often experience less sleep at night compared to younger people, our sleep needs remain the same. In fact, the Sleep Foundation recommends adults of any age have approximately 7-8 hours of sleep per night. 

#2 Circadian rhythm shifts

Your circadian rhythm is the sleep pattern your body naturally follows. Although it’s normal for our circadian rhythm to shift over time, many of us ignore the signals our body sends us and go to bed later than necessary. Unfortunately, even if we sleep later, this doesn’t change our body’s natural wake-up call, which can lead to shorter, and more disrupted sleep cycles.

#3 Medication side effects

Certain medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, can interfere with sleep patterns and contribute to insomnia or disrupted sleep. Many older adults take multiple prescription medications for a variety of health conditions. Changes to your sleep pattern may be caused by individual medications, or they may occur when certain medications interact with each other. If you’ve noticed a change in your sleep pattern, especially if you are taking medication, it’s a good idea to discuss this with your doctor or healthcare provider.

#4 Health conditions

Your mental and physical health can significantly impact your sleep cycle. Chronic health issues such as arthritis, heart disease, or sleep apnoea can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. These conditions often cause discomfort, pain, or difficulty breathing, and lead to a restless night. It’s important to address and manage these health issues to improve the quality of your sleep and overall wellbeing.

#5 Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle can have a huge impact on your natural sleep pattern. Factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, irregular sleep schedules, or high stress levels can all negatively impact sleep quality. 

Making small changes to improve your lifestyle, such as reducing caffeine consumption, eating a balanced diet, incorporating regular physical activity, establishing a consistent sleep routine, and finding healthy ways to manage stress can significantly improve your sleep patterns.

Would you like to know more? Read our article on tips to improve your sleep habits.

 

Ageing  well: the power of exercise for seniors 

Ageing  well: the power of exercise for seniors 

Staying active isn’t just about adding years to your life; it’s about adding life to your years. Physical activity is a cornerstone of healthy ageing, enabling you to retain your independence, improve your health and enjoy a high quality of life. This blog explores ways of staying active. Outlining recommended types of exercises and the benefits they bring.  

How much physical activity do older people need? 

The Department of Health and Aged Care suggests staying physically active is vital for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.

For those aged over 65, they recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days. That time can include a mix of aerobic, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises, totaling at least 150 minutes (about 2 and a half hours) of moderate-intensity activity each week. It’s also crucial to break up sedentary time with short activity bursts.  

What types of exercise should older people be doing? 

Aerobic activities

Walking, swimming, and cycling are excellent for improving heart and lung health.

Strength training 

Light weights or bodyweight exercises help maintain muscle mass and support metabolic health.  

Balance and flexibility 

 Yoga and Tai Chi can enhance balance, reduce fall risk, and improve flexibility.  

Functional fitness 

Exercises mimicking daily activities improve movement and independence, such as standing from a seated position.  

Benefits of staying active

Better mobility and independence 

Regular exercise strengthens the muscles and joints, reducing the risk of falls and improving mobility. This directly translates into greater independence in daily activities, from grocery shopping to engaging in hobbies.  

Improved mental health 

Physical activity is a powerful mood booster, thanks to the release of endorphins. It can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, enhance cognitive function, and improve sleep quality, contributing to overall mental well-being.  

Chronic disease management

 Staying active can help manage and prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Exercise improves heart health, regulates blood sugar, and aids in weight management, playing a critical role in disease management and prevention. 

Social engagement 

Group exercises, walking clubs, and classes offer social interaction, combatting loneliness and isolation. Engaging in physical activity within a community can foster connections and provide emotional support.  

For those looking to connect with like-minded individuals and find a supportive social circle, we invite you to join the Trilogy Care Facebook community group. You can share experiences, tips, and encouragement with others who are on the same journey towards active and healthy aging.  

Improved bone health 

Weight-bearing exercises, like walking and strength training, can help maintain or increase bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, which are common concerns as we age.  

The journey through the later stages of life doesn’t have to be a sedentary one.  

Adopting an active lifestyle can greatly improve seniors’ quality of life by providing social, mental, and physical advantages. Remember, it’s never too late to start, and the benefits are too significant to ignore. Let’s commit to staying active and embracing the joy of living well into our senior years.  

If you would like to improve your level of exercise, talk to your care partner to see if your care plan could include access to an exercise physiologist – an allied health professional who can work with you to create an exercise program that meets your individual needs.  

Trilogy Care Connect: A Facebook community for the Trilogy Care care circle

A Facebook community for the Trilogy Care care circle

We are excited to announce the launch of Trilogy Care Connect, a Facebook group dedicated to the Trilogy Care care circle. This group is more than just a community; it’s a hub for Trilogy Care care recipients, their families and unpaid carers (the care circle). The purpose of the community group is to cultivate a forum where care recipients and their care circle can network, learn, and grow in an environment that fosters social connection, education and empowerment. 

What sets our group apart

Community support: Engage with a community that understands your aspirations and challenges. Share your experiences and gain insights from peers who are on the same journey. 

Regular updates and news: Stay informed with Trilogy Care news, and updates, ensuring you always have the most up-to-date information.  

Feedback and advice: Your opinions and ideas matter. This group is a way to directly connect with other people with self-management experience, offering you the chance to learn from the experiences of others. 

Networking events: Participate in exclusive virtual meet-ups and networking events to connect with other professionals and expand your contacts. 

By joining, you’ll be part of a group of people who share your goal to live well in the home you love. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of a community of like-minded people.   

Follow the below link and answer the group questions to join. Once your request has been approved, you will be free to join in the conversation.  

The role of neighbours in senior support

Neighbours Day, run by Relationships Australia, is celebrated annually on the 31st March. It is a day dedicated to fostering connections and building strong communities by encouraging people to reach out and engage with their neighbours. Click here for more information.

As we move through the many phases of life, the importance of community becomes clearer. Having encouraging neighbours can significantly improve the quality of life and general well-being, especially for seniors. This article will discuss the value of having good neighbours, particularly for older adults, and how nurturing these connections can improve day-to-day living. 

Why neighbours matter?

1.Social connection

Neighbours provide seniors with important social contacts, especially those living alone or living far away from family. Frequent social interactions with neighbours may benefit mental and emotional health by reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.    

2.Practical support

When someone is in difficulty, neighbours are often the first to help. Having helpful neighbours can make a variety of tasks easier, such as assisting around the house, offering a ride to an appointment, or simply keeping an eye on each other while dealing with daily challenges.  

3.Safety and security

 Neighbours in tight-knit communities watch out for one another. Seniors can feel more at ease knowing that there are individuals in the area who are concerned about their safety and well-being, particularly if they have health or mobility challenges.  

4.Sense of belonging

A sense of belonging is based on feeling like an important member of the community. Seniors who have positive relationships with their neighbours live in a supportive atmosphere where they are accepted, appreciated, and involved. 

Promoting a sense of community

1.Start social gatherings

To promote social interaction and unite the neighborhood, plan activities like game evenings, potluck dinners, and coffee mornings.  

2.Offer Support

Whether it’s helping with yard work, running errands, or simply checking in on your neighbours’ well-being, be proactive in providing assistance to those in need.  

3.Communicate often

Make time to have cordial discussions with your neighbours whenever you can. Making small talk over the fence or just saying “hello” can go a long way toward fostering relationships.  

4.Joing community groups

 Participate in clubs or groups that share your interests in your community. These offer chances to socialise and engage in activities with neighbours who share similar interests. 

In the end, neighbours are extremely important in the lives of seniors because they provide a sense of safety, practical support, social interaction, and belonging. Seniors can have a rich and rewarding golden age by actively engaging in community life and building close ties with others who live nearby. Let us value the relationships we have with our neighbours and keep constructing solid, encouraging communities as a team.