Does Trilogy Care support people living with Parkinson’s disease?

Trilogy Care Parkinson's disease

At Trilogy Care, our experienced team provides personalised support for people living with Parkinson’s disease, helping them maintain independence and quality of life.

We recognise that many older Australians are affected by Parkinson’s disease, with approximately one in every hundred people over 60 impacted. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and coordination due to the deterioration of nerve cells.

What causes Parkinson’s disease?

While the exact cause of Parkinson’s disease remains unclear, research suggests it may result from a combination of factors, including:

  • Environmental exposure (e.g. pesticides, toxins, or chemicals)
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Head trauma

Common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but may include:

  • Tremors or shaking at rest, often starting on one side
  • Muscle stiffness and slow movement
  • Changes in posture and balance issues
  • Fatigue that isn’t relieved by rest
  • Depression, anxiety, and slowed thinking
  • Restlessness and muscle pain
  • Speech and handwriting changes
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Low blood pressure
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Constipation
  • Increased saliva production
  • Reduced sense of smell

What help is available for those with Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s primarily affects the brain, making neurologists key specialists in managing the condition. Your doctor can refer you to a neurologist, or you can seek guidance from organisations such as Fight Parkinson’s.

Treatment often involves a combination of:

  • Medication to manage symptoms
  • Lifestyle adjustments, including diet and exercise
  • Surgery in advanced cases

How can Trilogy Care assist?

Trilogy Care supports many individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Our care team is trained to assist with daily activities, recommend helpful services and equipment, and arrange home modifications to enhance safety and comfort.

We also have a highly skilled clinical team ready to respond to medical incidents—whether related to Parkinson’s or other health concerns.

We can help you through the challenges

rilogy Care is a leading Home Care Package provider, dedicated to delivering high-quality, personalised care. Our team works with you to develop a care plan that suits your individual needs, helping you live life with greater choice, value, and flexibility.

Call us on 1300 459 190 or contact us via our website to learn more.

The top six benefits of sleep for older Australians

World Sleep Day benefits of sleep

Getting a proper night’s rest is essential for everyone, but it’s particularly important for older Australians. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare recommends that people over the age of 65 aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Beyond the regular benefits of improved energy, better judgement, and enhanced physical health, sleep plays a vital role in overall well-being as we age.

Here are the top six benefits of quality sleep for older Australians:

1. Improved heart health

A consistent and healthy sleep schedule is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. With heart disease being one of the leading causes of death in Australia, ensuring you get enough rest each night can help support a healthy heart and reduce the risk of complications.

2. Appetite regulation

As we age, maintaining a balanced diet and a good appetite can become more challenging. Sleep plays a key role in regulating appetite and metabolism, helping to keep hunger signals in check and prevent overeating or undereating.

3. Reduced stress levels

A lack of sleep can increase stress levels, leading to a cycle of sleeplessness and heightened anxiety. Managing stress effectively is key to better sleep quality. If stress is keeping you awake, check out these tips for stress management to help you unwind.

4. Lower risk of falls

Fatigue from insufficient sleep can increase the risk of falls, which is a major concern for older Australians. Studies show that tiredness is strongly linked to balance and mobility issues, making quality sleep essential for fall prevention.

5. Stronger immune system

Sleep is when the body repairs itself, fighting off illnesses and recovering from injuries. Older individuals are more susceptible to infections, and a lack of sleep can further weaken the immune system, making it harder to stay healthy.

6. Better mental health

Poor sleep is linked to serious mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. Chronic sleep deprivation can also contribute to memory issues and cognitive decline. Prioritising rest can lead to a better mood, clearer thinking, and improved overall well-being.

How Trilogy Care can help

At Trilogy Care, we understand the importance of quality sleep in maintaining good health. That’s why we incorporate sleep and overall well-being into the personalised care plans we create for new care recipients.

If you’d like to learn more about how Trilogy Care can help you get better rest or improve your health in other ways, call our friendly team on 1300 459 190 or contact us via our website.

Why physiotherapy is so important for older Australians

physiotherapy

As we age, it is common to experience physical challenges such as reduced strength, mobility, or balance. While assistive technology can help manage these issues, physiotherapy remains one of the most effective ways to maintain and improve your overall health and independence.

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapists work with individuals to manage and improve or mitigate health conditions including pain, diabetes, obesity, cancer, stroke, and more. They assess, diagnose, and develop personalised treatment plans to suit each person’s needs.

Physiotherapist services include:

  • Massage therapy
  • Heat treatment
  • Muscle stretching
  • Joint manipulation
  • Exercise planning
  • Acupuncture
  • Assistance with aids, crutches, and casts

When do I need physiotherapy?

You may benefit from physiotherapy if you experience:

  • Increased risk of falls
  • Age-related conditions
  • Decreased strength or mobility
  • The need for pre- or post-surgical rehabilitation
  • Assistance with exercise programs

If you are unsure whether physiotherapy is right for you, we recommend speaking with your care partner or care coordinator, doctor, or other healthcare professionals for guidance.

How to find physiotherapy services?

Physiotherapy is one of the most in-demand allied health services and is widely available across Australia. If you do not currently have a physiotherapist, Trilogy Care recommends Plena Healthcare. As the largest provider of allied health services in the country, Plena Healthcare can meet the unique needs of every Trilogy Care care recipient.

An exclusive offer for Trilogy Care care recipients

Great news! Trilogy Care has partnered with Plena Healthcare to offer our care recipients an exclusive 10% discount on allied health services.

If you would like more details on this offer, visit Plena’s site.

Is physiotherapy covered by my Home Care Package or Support at Home funding?

Allied health services, including physiotherapy, are funded under the Home Care Package program to support your health and independence. Self-managed care recipients can also access these services under the Inclusions and Exclusions framework.

As we transition to the Support at Home program, funding guidelines may change; however, physiotherapy services will still be available under your funding. This means you can access the support you need without delay.

Take the next step towards better health

Physiotherapy is essential for staying active, independent, and pain-free. Whether you need support with mobility, rehabilitation, or general well-being, physiotherapy offers personalised solutions to meet your needs.

At Trilogy Care, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions about physiotherapy services or funding options, contact our friendly team today.

Call us on 1300 459 190 or email us to learn more.

Managing chronic health conditions with allied health

Managing chronic health conditions with allied heath

As we age, we become increasingly likely to develop chronic health conditions that can make life very difficult. Chronic conditions can be extremely debilitating for older Australians, especially those living with a Home Care Package as they need to be managed. However, allied health services can assist by addressing the root cause of the problem.

What are chronic health conditions?

A chronic health condition is an illness or disease that does not improve on its own or cannot be completely cured. According to the Department of Health, they account for 52% of hospitalisations in Australia.

Examples of chronic health conditions that commonly affect older Australians include:

  • Dementia
  • Diabetes
  • Asthma
  • Cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • Stroke
  • Mental health conditions

How can allied health services assist?

Allied health services, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, and more, can help individuals self-manage any conditions they may have. Allied health professionals are experienced in teaching their patients how to self-manage their conditions.

For older individuals living with more complex chronic health conditions, allied health professionals can provide in-depth case management and ongoing care to help manage or improve conditions. If required, allied health professionals are able to work together in a multidisciplinary team that can provide tailored support.

Where can I find allied health professionals?

Allied health services are widely available across Australia, with services searchable through platforms like healthdirect Australia. However, if you’d like the security of Australia’s largest allied health provider, Plena Healthcare specialises in working with older Australians.

Plena Healthcare offers physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, dietetics, and speech pathology to care recipients. With a team of more than 1,300 professionally qualified experts, you will be able to connect with health professionals who will provide you with assistance.

An exclusive offer for our care recipients

Trilogy Care is pleased to announce that we have partnered with Plena Healthcare to offer you an exclusive 10% discount on allied health services.  This offer will allow you to access the services such as:

Take Trilogy Care of yourself today!

At Trilogy Care, we understand the importance of connecting with allied health services that will help you manage your health, including chronic health issues. If you are not yet with Trilogy Care, but would like to take advantage of our 10% discount on Plena Healthcare’s services, visit their site. You can also give our team a call on 1300 459 190 or contact us via our website.

Plena Healthcare – improving allied health in aged care

Plena Health allied health Plena Healthcare allied healthcare

Plena Healthcare is Australia’s largest allied health service provider, with over 1,300 therapists working across the country. They make it easier for aged care recipients to access tailored allied health services that align with their individual needs. As a proud partner of Trilogy Care, Plena Healthcare is delighted to offer care recipients an exclusive 10% discount on their services.

Plena Healthcare’s expert team is dedicated to listening, connecting, and nurturing care recipients. They focus on addressing each individual’s needs through a holistic approach to healthcare.

Plena Healthcare was established through the merger of several expert organisation, with the goal of improving allied healthcare for Australians. With more than 30 years of experience in their respective fields, they deliver quality care designed to enhance your quality of life and maintain independence.

What services do they offer?

Plena Healthcare specialises in a wide range of allied health services, including:

Their highly qualified team can provide these services at a time and place that suits your lifestyle, including in-home care. Every team member holds the necessary certifications, insurance, and a current national police check for your peace of mind.

Physiotherapy for long-term solutions

Plena Healthcare understands the immense value of physiotherapy in enhancing the quality of life for older Australians. Whether you’re experiencing mobility challenges or balance concerns, physiotherapy can play a key role in maintaining your independence and wellbeing.

Here are three significant benefits of physiotherapy for older individuals:

  1. Preventing falls and injuries
    As we age, maintaining balance and mobility becomes increasingly important. Physiotherapy can help strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and boost confidence to reduce the risk of falls and related injuries.
  2. Promoting heart health
    Regular physiotherapy can support better circulation and cardiovascular health, helping you stay active and feel energised.
  3. Overcoming age-related challenges
    From easing chronic pain to assisting with recovery after surgery or injury, physiotherapy addresses the physical challenges of ageing. It helps you stay mobile, achieve your personal goals, and enjoy an active lifestyle.

No matter your health needs, physiotherapy can offer tailored support to help you feel your best as you age.

Coverage across Australia

Plena Healthcare offers national coverage, delivering services to clients across regional, rural, and remote locations. With a workforce of over 1,300 allied health specialists, they are well-equipped to support clients regardless of location.

What’s on offer for care recipients?

As a Trilogy Care client, you can enjoy a 10% discount on Plena Healthcare services. Simply arrange your appointment through your care partner or care coordinator, who will assist with applying the discount to your service.

For additional information about Plena Healthcare’s services, visit their website here. Alternatively, contact your care partner or reach out to Trilogy Care directly on 1300 459 190. You can also connect with us via our website at anytime.

REDFEB – Supporting Australian heart health

REDFEB Trilogy Care Heart disease

This February, communities across Australia are uniting for REDFEB, a vital initiative supporting heart research. Heart disease remains Australia’s leading cause of death, making REDFEB an essential opportunity to raise funds for critical research and treatments.

What is REDFEB?

Launched in 2013, REDFEB is an annual event organised by Heart Research Australia to fund essential research into heart disease. Since its inception as the North Shore Heart Research Foundation in 1986 (renamed Heart Research Australia in 2012), the organisation has made significant contributions to cardiac care globally.

REDFEB continues this proud tradition by spotlighting the serious impact of heart disease and raising awareness and support for those affected.

Heart disease in Australia: The facts

  • Prevalence: Around 1 in 6 Australians (over 4 million people) live with cardiovascular disease
  • Mortality: Heart disease causes 1 in 4 deaths nationwide

These figures highlight the urgent need for ongoing research and effective prevention measures.

Who is at risk?

Heart disease can affect anyone, but some groups face a higher risk. For example, men and older people are more susceptible. Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol intake increase the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Additionally, medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and being overweight can significantly raise the risk.

Reducing your risk of heart disease

Taking steps to improve your heart health is crucial, especially as you age. Here are some effective strategies:

  • Quit smoking
  • Follow a heart-healthy diet: Prioritise wholegrains, fibre, vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats while minimising unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars
  • Exercise regularly: Aim for 30–60 minutes of physical activity daily, such as a walk or other manageable exercise
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Limit alcohol consumption: Stick to no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than four in one day
  • Get a heart health check: Consult your doctor for personalised advice

Each small change can contribute to reducing your risk and improving your overall health.

Why REDFEB matters

By participating in REDFEB, you contribute to vital heart disease research that saves lives. The funds raised support advancements in treatment, prevention, and care, helping Australian families and communities fight this widespread condition.

How to get involved

To participate in REDFEB 2025, visit Heart Research Australia’s website for details. You can make a donation or raise awareness in creative ways:

  • Gather friends and family for an activity wearing red
  • Explore the REDFEB webpage for inspiration
  • Speak to your Trilogy Care partner for more ideas

Not yet part of the Trilogy Care community? Call us at 1300 459 190 or visit our website today to learn more about how we can support your health and well-being.

By coming together, we can help fund life-changing research and improve heart health for all Australians. Let’s make REDFEB 2025 a success!

How can older people improve their nutrition intake?

nutrition older people Trilogy Care

As you age, your dietary needs can start to change. You might find yourself eating less, choosing healthier options, or needing specific nutrients. No matter what changes you’re making, ensuring your nutritional intake aligns with your health needs is increasingly important as your body, lifestyle, and appetite evolve.

The importance of good nutrition

As we grow older, it becomes crucial to consume a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Without adequate nutrition, older Australians may become more susceptible to chronic illnesses or experience weakened immune systems, leading to more frequent sickness.

What should I change about my diet?

Nutrition Australia recommends starting with simple dietary improvements, such as:

  • Choosing foods rich in vitamins
  • Reducing salt intake
  • Increasing calcium through milk or yoghurt
  • Drinking more water
  • Limiting alcoholic beverages
  • Cutting down on unhealthy fats

These small, practical steps can help improve your overall health and reduce illness.

What support is available?

If you’re looking to eat healthier and improve your nutrition, Trilogy Care is here to support you. Your care partner can provide advice tailored to your needs, and you can also use your Home Care Package funding to access professional support from a nutritionist or dietitian.

One challenge for Home Care Package recipients is receiving healthy, nutritious meals regularly. However, Trilogy Care clients using Cookaborough can select from an extensive range of menus offered by various food providers.

Cookaborough delivers ready-made, nutritious meals directly to your door, and these meals can be funded through your Home Care Package. As a bonus, Cookaborough is currently offering a $20 discount on your first order, making it the perfect time to explore their healthy meal options.

What if I have a poor appetite?

If you’re struggling with a lack of appetite, it can feel challenging to eat nutritious meals. Below are some practical tips to help maintain healthy eating habits:

  • Include high-protein supplemental foods to meet your nutrient needs when you’re unable to eat full meals
  • Focus on meals that are high in protein and calories if you’re experiencing weight loss
  • Use healthy snacks to supplement meals if larger portions feel overwhelming

These strategies can help you maintain a balanced diet and support your health, even when your appetite isn’t at its best.

Supporting your nutrition journey

As a self-managed Home Care Package recipient, you’re in control of your support. If you’re ready to make positive changes to your diet and lifestyle, our team at Trilogy Care will ensure you have the right resources and guidance to achieve your goals.

To learn more about improving your nutrition or receiving healthy, ready-made meals through Cookaborough, call your care partner today. If you’re not yet with Trilogy Care but want to find out how we can support your goals, lifestyle, and preferences, contact our team on 1300 459 590 or visit us at our website.

Discover Cookaborough – A fresh approach to meal delivery

Cookaborough Meal Delivery

Finding high-quality, reliable meal options has long been a challenge for Home Care Package recipients. Cookaborough is here to change that, delivering an extensive range of ready-made meals directly to your door.

A meal delivery service for Home Care Package recipients

Cookaborough was created to ensure Home Care Package recipients can enjoy the meals they want in the comfort of their home. Through its intuitive platform, food delivery services offer a curated menu of delicious, ready-made meals that care recipients can choose from fortnightly.

Whether you’re craving a specific cuisine, seeking something local, or need meals tailored to your dietary requirements, Cookaborough offers options to suit every taste.

Experience the taste of home

Cookaborough partners with premium food preparation services, providing an impressive variety of menus. Whether you’re yearning for Greek, Indian, Italian, Thai, Chinese, or other cuisines, Cookaborough connects you to the flavours you love.

Relive the comfort and joy of your favourite meals from home.

What are care recipients saying about Cookaborough?

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what real Home Care Package recipients have shared about their Cookaborough experience:

Karren: “Consistently delicious food with a varied menu. So convenient to pick each week and enjoy the best restaurant-quality meals.”

Caroline: “Using Cookaborough both in Sydney and Melbourne. Great concept. Love Rhubarb in Sydney and Spoonful in Melbourne. So great to be able to deliver delicious meals to friends and family in need. I will definitely be ordering for my home too!”

Amanda: “I’m so glad this platform exists. It’s a great way to support small businesses and get access to really great food.”

Chin-Tao: “Accessing authentic, fresh Chinese meals is beautiful!”

Even more good news for care recipients!

Cookaborough has been designed to work seamlessly with Home Care Packages. Recipients only pay 30% of the meal cost upfront, ensuring your budget stretches further. The remaining 70% of the meal will be covered by your HCP budget.

Even better, Trilogy Care care recipients can enjoy a $20 voucher for their first order with Cookaborough. With Cookaborough’s payment structure, the discount means you can receive an order of us to $66 in value for free!

A new part of your Home Care journey

Cookaborough is revolutionising meal delivery for Home Care Package recipients, offering flexibility and choice to self-managed care recipients with Trilogy Care.

Enhance your diet, enrich your lifestyle, and bring more variety to your meals with Cookaborough.

To get started or for assistance signing up, call Trilogy Care at 1300 459 190 or visit our website. Order today and take advantage of this fantastic promotion!

Diet tips for care recipients

diet tips care recipients

As we grow older, maintaining a healthy and well-rounded diet becomes even more essential. At Trilogy Care, we understand that various factors can influence your ability to maintain good eating habits. In our role of supporting you as our care recipients, we’ve prepared some simple nutrition tips to help you stay healthy.

Dietary guidelines

A great starting point for a healthy diet is following the Australian Dietary Guidelines:

  • Enjoy a variety of foods from the five food groups
  • Drink plenty of water—aim for eight cups daily
  • Limit foods high in saturated fats
  • Choose foods with mostly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats
  • Reduce foods and drinks with added salt and sugar
  • Minimise alcohol intake
  • Keep ‘extras’ or ‘sometimes foods’ to a minimum
  • Stay physically active

Why a healthy diet matters

Age-related health changes can make it harder to eat or enjoy meals. However, providing your body with essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre is vital for staying strong and energetic.

More than 65% of adults over 50 are affected by bone health issues like osteoporosis or osteopenia, according to Nutrition Australia. Ensuring adequate calcium intake is especially important to maintain healthy bones.

Other health issues related to diet

Good nutrition can help reduce or manage various health conditions, including those listed below:

  • Arthritis: Managing your weight and including fish oil in your diet can help alleviate symptoms
  • Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D supports bone health. If sun exposure is limited, foods like milk, sardines, tuna, yoghurt, and cheese can help
  • Constipation: Fibre-rich foods, such as fruits, beans, lentils, wholemeal bread, and wholegrain cereals, promote regularity
  • Calcium deficiency: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yoghurt, along with canned salmon, are excellent sources of calcium
  • Teeth problems: If chewing is difficult, opt for soft foods like fish, eggs, cheese, and soft fruits

Healthy diet examples

Everyone’s nutritional needs are different, but here are some general recommendations:

  • Meat and/or protein: 3 to 4 serves daily
  • Vegetables: 5 cups daily
  • Fruit: 2 serves daily
  • Dairy: 3 to 4 serves daily
  • Grains (bread, pasta, rice, potatoes): 3 to 5 serves daily

A daily diet might include:

  • Breakfast: Cereal or muesli with milk or yoghurt, eggs on toast, or a smoothie
  • Lunch: A sandwich with protein, a salad with protein, or soup with cheese and crackers
  • Dinner: Meals such as fish with pasta, stir-fry, soup, wraps, risotto, lamb and potatoes, chicken casserole, or spaghetti

Can Trilogy Care help me improve my diet?

If you’re looking to improve your diet, Trilogy Care can connect you with dietitians and nutritionists, arrange transport for grocery shopping, and provide access to meal services. Our partnership with Plena Healthcare means you can access allied health services, including dieticians, with a discount.

Additionally, we partner with Cookaborough, which offers meals from over 150 high-quality food provider services across Australia. Their program is designed specifically for Home Care Package recipients, providing a convenient way to enjoy ready-made, nutritious meals.

By partnering with Trilogy Care, you can take simple steps toward better nutrition and healthier living. Connect with us today on 1300 459 190 or visit our website.

International Day of People with Disabilities

disabilities

On December 3 each year, the world comes together to observe International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPWD). This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” highlights the importance of inclusion and empowerment.

At Trilogy Care, while we are best known for our support for older Australians, we are proud to assist many individuals who identify as having a disability. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that meets the unique needs of every care recipient, including those with that may identify as having one or more disabilities.

Trilogy Care’s commitment to you

Before you start receiving self-management support through Trilogy Care, our team collaborates with you to create a tailored care plan based on your specific needs and circumstances. This ensures that the services you receive comprehensively address your individual requirements.

For care recipients who identify as having a disability, our commitment remains steadfast. We provide custom support services to help maintain independence and quality of life.

Disabilities faced by older Australians

It’s common for older Australians to develop age-related disabilities, such as dementia, vision impairment, diabetes, or osteoarthritis. At Trilogy Care, we specialise in providing the support you need to manage these conditions, offering assistance with medication, transportation to appointments, in-home nursing, and more.

What happens if I develop a disability while on a Home Care Package?

Age-related conditions can often arise unexpectedly. If your circumstances change, our clinical team is here to help update your care plan and guide you in accessing any new services you require.

What if my disability makes self-management too difficult?

We understand that self-management might feel daunting, especially if you identify as having a disability. That’s why Trilogy Care offers support at every step of your self-managed Home Care Package journey.

If self-management becomes overwhelming, our Self Managed PLUS tier provides additional care coordination. With this service, we take care of sourcing support providers and care workers on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your well-being.

Speak with Trilogy Care today

Trilogy Care is committed to ensuring that every care recipient receives comprehensive, personalised support tailored to their needs. Whether you’re managing complex healthcare issues or seeking to improve your care, we’re here to help as we push towards amplifying the opportunities for people who identify as having a disability.

Following the IDPWD theme’s footsteps, we aim to help you achieve your goals and wants while receiving care at home.

Call us today at 1300 459 190 or visit our website to learn more.