JulEYE: National Eye Health Awareness Month

JulEYE: National Eye Health Awareness Month

JulEYE is National Eye Health Awareness Month in Australia. Run by The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), this initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about eye health and the importance of regular eye examinations, aiming to educate Australians on the significance of maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss.

This JulEYE, let’s shine a light on the importance of eye health and learn how to look after our vision.

The importance of eye health

Our eyes can assist us with everyday tasks, from reading and driving to recognising faces and enjoying the beauty of the world around us. However, eye health often gets overlooked until issues arise. Neglecting eye health can lead to severe consequences, including vision loss and blindness, which can significantly impact our personal and professional lives. Regular eye examinations can detect problems early, ensuring timely treatment and preventing the progression of eye diseases. JulEYE encourages everyone to take proactive steps in looking after their vision, by adopting healthy habits to preserve our long-term vision.

Common eye conditions

Understanding common eye conditions helps in recognising symptoms early. Here are a few to be aware of:

  • Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, leading to blurred vision. More common in older adults.
  • Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye, potentially damaging the optic nerve and leading to vision loss.
  • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Affects the macula, leading to central vision loss.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes, leading to vision impairment.

Tips to maintain healthy eyesight

Our eyes, like any other part of the body, require regular care and attention to function optimally. By adopting a few simple habits, we can significantly improve our eye health and prevent many common vision problems. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain healthy eyesight:

Regular eye exams: Regular eye examinations are vital for detecting issues early. Adults should have their eyes tested every two years, and annually if over 65 or with a family history of eye disease.

Protect your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. UV protection is crucial even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate through clouds.

Eat a balanced diet: Consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, helps maintain good eye health. Incorporate leafy greens, fish, nuts, and colourful fruits and vegetables into your diet.

Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain eye moisture, preventing dryness and irritation. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.

Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and damage to the optic nerve. Quitting smoking can benefit your overall health, including your eyes.

Practice good screen habits: With increased screen time, it’s essential to take breaks to reduce eye strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Wear protective eyewear: Use safety glasses or goggles when engaging in activities that could pose a risk to your eyes, such as home repairs, gardening, or playing certain sports.

How to get involved

JulEYE is a great time to get involved and spread awareness about eye health. Here are some ways you can participate:

  • Schedule an eye exam: Ensure you and your family members have regular eye check-ups.
  • Spread the word: Use social media to share information about JulEYE and the importance of eye health.
  • Donate: Support organisations like The Eye Surgeons’ Foundation to fund eye health research and treatment.
  • Volunteer: Get involved with local community events focused on eye health awareness.

JulEYE serves as a reminder to prioritise our eye health and take proactive steps in maintaining good vision. By following these tips and encouraging others to do the same, we can collectively work towards a future where preventable vision loss is significantly reduced. Remember, healthy eyes lead to a healthier, happier life. So, let’s to protect our sight this JulEYE.

International Men’s Health Week

Elderly man smiling while swimming, wearing swim goggles. Background includes icons representing health and fitness, such as a heart, apple, and dumbbell.(International Men’s Health Week)

This year, International Men’s Health Week is celebrating its 30th anniversary, taking place from 10 June to 16 June. This milestone is a perfect reminder of the importance of men’s health and wellbeing, particularly for our senior men. Ageing is a natural part of life, but maintaining health and vitality as we grow older requires a proactive approach. Regular health checks can significantly enhance your quality of life and even add years to it.

This International Men’s Health Week, encourage your fathers, brothers, partners, friends, and even yourself to take control of your wellbeing and to make a commitment to prioritise your health.

Why health checks are important

As we age, our bodies go through various changes, making regular health checks more crucial than ever. Early detection of potential health issues can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. International Men’s Health Week shines a spotlight on the importance of men’s health checks, encouraging men to stay on top of their health.

Regular health checks are not just about addressing existing problems but also about preventive care. They provide an opportunity to catch any potential health issues before they become serious. For older men, these checks are especially important as the risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer increases with age. By staying proactive, you can manage your health more effectively and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Essential health checks for older men

Here are some essential health checks that men should consider as they get older:

Blood pressure check: High blood pressure is a hidden health risk, often showing no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Regular monitoring can help manage and prevent complications such as heart disease and stroke.

Cholesterol levels: High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Regular checks can help manage cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication if necessary.

Prostate health: Prostate issues, including prostate cancer, become more common as men age. Regular PSA tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) can help detect pros

Diabetes screening: Type 2 diabetes is prevalent among older adults. Regular blood glucose tests can help catch diabetes early, making it easier to manage and reduce the risk of complications.

Bowel cancer screening: Australia offers a National Bowel Cancer Screening Program for people aged 50 to 74. Regular screening can detect bowel cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Bone density test: Osteoporosis doesn’t just effect women. Men can also suffer from bone loss, leading to fractures and other issues. A bone density test can help assess risk and guide preventive measures.

Eye and hearing tests: Regular eye exams can detect conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, while hearing tests can help manage hearing loss, improving overall quality of life.

Let’s not forget about mental health

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental wellbeing can significantly impact overall quality of life, influencing how we think, feel, and act. Good mental health enables individuals to handle stress, build strong relationships, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Conversely, neglecting mental health can lead to severe consequences, including depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, which can affect physical health and overall wellbeing. By prioritising mental health alongside physical health, we can create a more positive approach to wellbeing, encouraging men to seek support, engage in open conversations, and practice self-care. This balanced focus ensures that men can lead healthier, happier lives, equipped to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength.

Creating supportive communities

Creating supportive communities is vital for enhancing men’s health, especially for older men. Family and friends play a crucial role in this effort by providing emotional support, encouraging healthy habits, and ensuring regular health check-ups. Simple actions, like accompanying a loved one to a doctor’s appointment or engaging in regular physical activities together, can make a significant difference.

Community initiatives and resources, such as local health workshops, support groups, and fitness programs, are essential in promoting men’s health awareness and providing accessible information and services. Building strong networks of support for older men, whether through social clubs, men’s sheds, or online forums, fosters a sense of belonging and encourages proactive health management. These networks not only combat isolation but also create a culture where discussing and prioritising health becomes the norm.

Or, you could join Trilogy Care’s Facebook community: Trilogy Care Connect.

Trilogy Care supporting International Men's Health Week

This year, Trilogy Care is supporting International Men’s Health Week by participating in the Push-Up Challenge from 5 to 28 June to raise awareness about mental health.

This initiative encourages everyone to participate by choosing any exercise they enjoy, whether it’s push-ups, walking, chair sit-ups, stretching, or any other physical activity. Participants are invited to take a photo or video of themselves engaging in their chosen exercise and share it by sending it to marketing@trilogycare.com.au or posting it in the community group to inspire others.

To add a fun twist, Trilogy Care will be randomly selecting three participants to receive a $100 gift card. By promoting physical activity and mental health awareness, Trilogy Care is fostering a supportive community that motivates and uplifts its members during International Men’s Health Week.

International Men’s Health Week is not just about raising awareness; it’s about taking action. This year, let’s celebrate by encouraging all men, especially older men, to schedule their health checks and take charge of their wellbeing. By focusing on both physical and mental health, and by creating supportive communities, we can ensure a healthier, happier future for all.

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.

https://trilogycare.com.au/share-the-care

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

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.

 

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.  

World Hearing Day 2024

Happy World Hearing Day

World Hearing Day is an annual global initiative aimed at promoting ear and hearing care worldwide, focusing on preventative measures against deafness and hearing loss.

The theme for 2024, "Changing Mindset," highlights the importance of challenging societal misperceptions and stigmatising attitudes through heightened awareness and information dissemination.

In Australia, an estimated 3.6 million individuals experience varying degrees of hearing impairment. Hearing loss impacts about 50% of those aged 60 to 70, 70% of those aged 70 and over and 80% of those aged 80 and over.

What are the impacts of unaddressed hearing loss?

The repercussions of untreated hearing loss can impact an elderly individual’s quality of life. These include communication, speech, cognition, and social isolation, loneliness, and stigma.

What can cause hearing loss and deafness?

Age-related hearing loss doesn't have a single clear cause. Instead, it typically stems from changes in the inner ear as you age. However, several factors can contribute, such as ear or head injuries, exposure to loud noises, smoking, and genetic predispositions.

Signs of hearing loss might include:

  • difficulty hearing in noisy places
  • difficulty hearing people on the phone or if they’re not facing you
  • regularly asking people to repeat themselves when they speak to you
  • hearing sounds as muffled, as though people are mumbling
  • needing to have the TV volume louder than other people
  • regularly missing your phone or the doorbell ringing
  • avoiding situations because you have trouble hearing.

It's crucial to reconise these signs to identify and manage your hearing loss effectively. When these signs are detected early on, elderly individuals can access programs aimed at assisting with hearing loss, ultimately enhancing their day-to-day quality of life.

Your Home Care Package is designed to cover services that address age-related functional decline needs, which can include clinical services such as support for hearing and vision.

Individuals experiencing hearing or speech difficulties can seek assistance through resources such as Deaf Connect via My Aged Care, offering in-person sign language interpreting and Video Remote Interpreting services.

The National Relay Service also provides support for those struggling with phone communication, allowing users to choose their preferred access option find out more at The National Rely Service website and request a relay to 1800 200 422 (free call).

Diabetes support resources for senior Australians

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world, including many senior Australians. In fact, 50% of Australians with Diabetes are over the age of 65, and according to the ABS (2022), over 19% of people over the age of 75 have diabetes. While there is no cure for diabetes, there are a number of things that seniors can do to manage their condition and live a healthy life. By making lifestyle changes, taking medication, and regularly checking blood sugar levels, seniors can reduce their risk of complications and improve their overall health and well-being.

One important part of diabetes management is having access to support resources. There are a number of different resources available to senior Australians with diabetes, including government programs, non-profit organizations, and online resources. We’ve listed some of the different diabetes support resources available to senior Australians below.

Government programs

The Australian Government offers a number of programs to support senior Australians with diabetes. These programs include:

Non-profit organizations

There are a number of non-profit organizations that provide support and services to senior Australians with diabetes. These organizations include:

  • Diabetes Australia: Diabetes Australia is the leading national charity for people with diabetes. They provide a range of support services, including education, information, and advocacy.
  • Beyondblue: Beyondblue is a national mental health organization. They provide support services to people with mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, which are common in people with diabetes.

Online resources

There are a number of online resources that can provide information and support to senior Australians with diabetes. These resources include:

Support groups

  • Diabetes Support Australia and New Zealand: Diabetes Support Australia and New Zealand is the support group for those with diabetes and family for those that wish to understand this disease better.
  • Diabetes Australia Member Community: Being a part of Diabetes Australia provides an opportunity to connect with fellow members through their member community forum. They hold regular online meet-ups and webinars, while the online library has a range of useful and relevant resources.

Joining a support group for seniors with diabetes can be a great way to get support and advice from others who understand what you are going through. Support groups can also provide a sense of community and belonging.

We hope this information is helpful. For more information on managing diabetes, speak to your local GP or go to this site.

Would you like to know more about how to self-manage your home care package? You can read more on our website or complete the below form and a member of our team will reach out to you.

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Arthritis-friendly home modifications for ageing at home

Arthritis-friendly home modifications for ageing at home

As we age, maintaining our independence and comfort within our own homes becomes increasingly important. For those of us suffering from arthritis however, it can prove difficult to stay on top of.

This article will explore practical and effective home modifications and adaptations specifically designed to enhance day to day life while managing arthritis. From simple adjustments to innovative solutions, we'll provide valuable insights to help you create a home environment that promotes ease, safety, and a higher quality of life.

You don't have to break the bank with expensive home renovations. Instead, consider taking affordable steps to ensure your home is safe and your joints are protected when living with arthritis. Our aim is to introduce practical adaptations that maintain your ability to engage in everyday activities.

Evaluate your Environment.
Consider consulting your care provider, physician, or occupational therapist to pinpoint the daily activities that pose the most challenges for you. This discussion can prove highly beneficial in tailoring your approach to managing arthritis effectively.

Energy Saving
No, we’re not talking about solar panels here! Certain types of arthritis can lead to muscle loss, loss of strength and loss of endurance. Figuring out ways to make frequent tasks and chores easier can allow you to preserve your energy and make life easier:

  • Keep frequently used items at counter level.
  • Sit while doing common activities (I, for instance, peel my potatoes in a bowl while sitting on the lounge!)
  • If items are heavy, try purchasing smaller sizes (e.g., swap large containers of washing powder for capsules) or utilising aids (trade in the laundry basket for a laundry trolley).

Reduce Hazards
Our homes can be full of potential hazards but reducing them doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking:

  • Cutting back on clutter can reduce trip hazards.
  • Keeping rooms well lit allows you to avoid bumping into things.
  • Putting slip mates into the bathtub or other slippery areas helps prevent falls.

While these suggestions are valuable, we understand that sometimes more extensive changes are necessary. If your home needs modifications to support your independent and safe living, you might qualify for Home Care Modifications under your Home Care Package or Commonwealth Home Support Programme.

If your needs have changed since your last Care Plan meeting and you’d like to discuss Home Care Modifications, Call Trilogy Care on 1300 459 190 to discover how we can help.

Would you like to know more about how to self-manage your home care package? You can read more on our website or complete the below form and a member of our team will reach out to you.

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