📢 Free Webinar to Support Better Foot Health for Your Clients Wednesday 8 October | 🕛 12:00 PM AEDT
The Foot and Ageing Foot – a practical session to help you better understand and advocate for your clients’ podiatry needs.
🔍 What we’ll cover: • Common foot ailments in older adults • Barriers to accessing footcare • The role of podiatry in maintaining mobility and independence • Live Q&A with our friendly podiatrist
🎯 Ideal for case managers supporting older clients or those with chronic conditions.
When most people hear the word dietetics, their minds jump straight to food restrictions, calorie counting, and weight loss plans. But dietetics is a science, a calling, and a powerful tool for healing—far beyond the confines of what’s on your plate.
🌱 The Science Behind the Plate
Dietetics is rooted in biochemistry, physiology, and evidence-based medicine. Dietitians don’t just tell you what to eat—they understand how nutrients interact with your body, how chronic diseases alter metabolism, and how tailored nutrition can support recovery, resilience, and longevity.
Managing diabetes through carbohydrate education
Supporting cancer patients with therapeutic nutrition
Preventing heart disease with lipid-lowering strategies
Enhancing gut health through microbiome-friendly foods
💬 Nutrition is Communication
Dietetics is also about listening. A skilled dietitian doesn’t just hand over a meal plan, they explore your lifestyle, culture, beliefs, and emotional relationship with food. They help you rewrite your food story with compassion and clarity.
Culturally sensitive nutrition advice
Mental health support through intuitive eating
Empowering clients to overcome disordered eating patterns
🧠 Beyond the Body: Dietetics and Mental Health
Food affects mood, cognition, and emotional wellbeing. Dietitians are increasingly working in mental health settings, helping clients manage anxiety, depression, and ADHD through nutritional strategies that support brain function and hormonal balance.
Omega-3s for mood regulation
Gut-brain axis and fermented foods
Stabilizing blood sugar to reduce emotional volatility
💪 Empowering Through Education
Dietetics is about empowerment. It’s not about telling people what they can’t eat, it’s about showing them what they can do with food to reclaim their health, energy, and joy.
Whether you’re recovering from illness, managing a chronic condition, or simply seeking to thrive, dietitians are your allies in health, not food police.
Rediscover Your Passion for Care: Why Experienced Clinicians Are Moving to Community Roles with Empower Healthcare
After years of dedication in hospitals, private practice, or rehab settings, many clinicians reach a pivotal point: Is this still the career I envisioned?
If you’re feeling the weight of high caseloads, rigid schedules, or limited autonomy, you’re not alone. A growing number of experienced allied health professionals are making the move to community care and finding renewed purpose, flexibility, and professional satisfaction.
At Empower Healthcare, we offer clinicians the opportunity to thrive in a setting that values autonomy, connection, and balance.
Why More Clinicians Are Choosing Community Care
The shift is real: community-based healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Australia. With an ageing population and increasing demand for in-home and aged care services, clinicians are finding more meaningful, flexible, and sustainable careers outside traditional settings.
Here’s what makes community care so appealing:
Work-life balance: Reclaim your evenings and weekends.
Clinical autonomy: Make decisions based on your expertise not discharge quotas.
Deeper connections: Build long-term therapeutic relationships with clients and their families.
Freedom from the four walls: Make a real impact by working in the community, right where our clients live, not just behind a desk
What Our Clinicians Say
“After 8 years in private practice, I needed a change to restore my work/life balance. Working in the community with Empower lets me challenge my clinical skills while reclaiming my evenings and weekends.”
— James, Physiotherapist
“Empower is always adapting, growing and progressing—signs of a great company where everyone wants to work.”
— Olivia, Physiotherapist
Why Empower Healthcare?
We understand that experienced clinicians need more than just a job, they need support, respect, and room to grow.
✅ Tailored Onboarding
Structured induction with shadowing and area-specific training
Transition support for clinicians moving from hospital or private settings
✅ Ongoing Professional Development
Regular CPD sessions, case discussions, and peer learning
Access to Empower Learning and external training opportunities
✅ Supportive Leadership
Regular check-ins with your team leader
A dedicated admin team to support scheduling and logistics
✅ Clinical Freedom
No pressure to over-service or discharge prematurely
Make decisions that align with your clinical judgment and client needs
✅ Flexibility & Recognition
Competitive remuneration
Travel allowances, and career progression pathways
Make the Move That Makes Sense
With over 688,000 healthcare professionals in Australia and rising demand for community-based services, now is the perfect time to explore a career that aligns with your values and lifestyle.
Whether you’re seeking more autonomy, better balance, or a fresh challenge—Empower Healthcare is here to support your next chapter.
Let’s Talk
Our People & Culture team is ready to answer your questions, connect you with current clinicians, and help you explore how community care could work for you.
At Empower Healthcare, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality allied health services, regardless of location, mobility, or circumstance. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of Telehealth services designed to bring professional clinical Allied Healthcare directly to your home.
Whether you’re in a remote area, managing a busy schedule, or simply prefer virtual consultations, our model ensures you receive the support you need with flexibility and convenience.
Why Choose Empower Telehealth Services?
– Faster access to appointments for urgent needs.
– Reduced travel time and costs for clients in rural or regional areas.
– Comfort and safety for those self-isolating or with mobility limitations.
– Cost-effective alternative to in-home services.
Telehealth Services Available
Empower offers the following services via Telehealth:
Dietetics
– Dietary Management
– Medical Nutrition Therapy
– Personalised Nutrition Plans
– Weight Management
– Dysphagia Management
– Food Intolerance & Allergy Management
Occupational Therapy
– Daily Living Skills Training
– Home Safety Assessments
– Equipment Prescription
– Falls Prevention
– Dementia Support (COPE Program)
Physiotherapy
– Pain Management
– Mobility & Balance Training
– Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
– Exercise Programs
– Injury Recovery
Speech Pathology
– Communication Therapy
– Swallowing Assessments
– Language & Literacy Support
– Voice Therapy
How It Works
Clients can access Telehealth services with a support person, using a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a camera. Empower provides easy-to-use links for video calls.
Our Support Team is here to guide you through every step, from referral to treatment, ensuring a smooth and personalised experience.
Getting Started
Referring is simple:
1. Complete our online referral form
2. Select your service.
3. In the “About your referral” section, mention “Telehealth”.
Access more information about Telehealth services here.
Supporting flyers
Empower Healthcare’s Telehealth services are designed to keep you safe, supported, and connected, no matter where you are. Let us help you live independently and confidently with care that comes to you.
Whether you’re a student, new grad or currently in hospital or private practice and wondering what it’s really like to work in community health, this is your chance to hear firsthand from the Empower team.
Discover the flexibility, impact, and career growth that comes with stepping into a community role. – Expect real stories, practical insights, and a relaxed space to ask questions.
At Empower Healthcare, we understand that palliative care is about more than managing symptoms, it’s about supporting people to live meaningfully, with dignity and comfort. That’s why our Occupational Therapy (OT) services are designed to help individuals continue engaging in the activities that matter most to them, even in the face of life-limiting illness.
A Holistic, Team-Based Approach to Palliative Care
Our occupational therapists work as part of a dedicated multidisciplinary team (MDT) that includes experienced nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians, and other allied health professionals. Together, we deliver coordinated, client-centred care that supports physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
Whether it’s helping someone enjoy a favourite hobby, maintain independence in daily tasks, or simply feel more comfortable at home, our team is here to make it possible.
Home environment assessments to improve safety and accessibility
Energy conservation strategies to reduce fatigue
Adaptive equipment recommendations for daily living
Support for caregivers with education and practical tools
Emotional and psychosocial support through meaningful engagement
Our nurses play a vital role in monitoring health status, managing symptoms, and providing compassionate care that complements OT interventions.
Why Refer to Empower Healthcare?
We make referrals easy and seamless. Our team collaborates closely with GPs, aged care providers, case managers, and families to ensure every client receives the right support at the right time.
By referring to Empower Healthcare, you’re connecting your clients with a team that’s passionate about helping people live—not just exist.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re a healthcare provider looking to enhance your clients’ palliative care experience, we invite you to refer to Empower Healthcare. Together, we can empower comfort, autonomy, and joy—every step of the way.
Malnutrition is a serious and often overlooked health issue, especially among older adults. It’s not just about eating too little, it’s about not getting the right nutrients. Alarmingly, nearly 50% of older Australians, whether in aged care or living independently, are either malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.
Importantly, malnutrition can affect anyone, regardless of body size. Even individuals who are overweight or obese may be nutritionally compromised.
What Is Malnutrition?
Malnutrition occurs when the body doesn’t receive enough energy, protein, vitamins, or minerals to function properly. It can result from:
Insufficient food intake
Poor dietary choices
Difficulty absorbing or utilising nutrients
Over time, these deficiencies can lead to serious health complications.
Spot the Signs Early
Early identification is key to preventing long-term health impacts. Common signs of malnutrition in older adults include:
The Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) is a simple, evidence-based way to identify those at risk. It involves just two questions about recent weight loss and appetite.
👉 Download the MST here
Why Older Adults Are Vulnerable
Malnutrition in older adults often develops gradually due to:
Reduced appetite or sensory changes
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Chronic health conditions and medications
Cognitive decline or depression
Social isolation or financial hardship
Limited mobility or frequent hospitalisations
These factors can make it harder to maintain a balanced diet and adequate nutrition.
The Cost of Delayed Intervention
Without timely support, malnutrition can lead to:
Loss of muscle mass and strength
Increased risk of infections and falls
Poor wound healing
Fatigue and cognitive decline
Longer recovery times
Greater dependence and risk of hospitalisation
Dietitians Make a Difference
Timely referral to a dietitian can significantly improve outcomes. Dietitians provide:
Comprehensive nutritional assessments
Personalised dietary plans
Practical nutrition education
Support for appetite and weight stabilisation
Improved healing, energy, and independence
Accessible Support
We offer flexible options to suit your needs, including:
In-person consultations
After-hours telehealth appointments
Key Takeaway
Malnutrition isn’t always visible, but its impact is profound. By raising awareness, encouraging early screening, and referring to dietitians, we can help older adults live healthier, more independent lives.
The decline in muscle mass often begins as early as 30 and can accelerate after 60. Without preventive measures, this can lead to a host of health issues.
Muscle weakness isn’t just about feeling less strong. It’s linked to serious health concerns such as disability, diabetes, cognitive decline, and osteoporosis, and can even increase the risk of early mortality. But there’s good news: resistance training can make a difference!
As we age, our bodies undergo various changes. One of the most significant being sarcopenia or better known as age-related muscle mass loss. Did you know that sarcopenia affects about 10% of adults over 60 and more than 50% of those over 80.
Why Resistance Training?
Current research highlights resistance training as a powerful tool to combat muscle disuse. By incorporating resistance exercises into your routine, you can fight against the loss of muscle strength and mass. This type of training not only helps reduce frailty but also improves physical function in several ways. Enhanced mobility, greater independence, better management of chronic diseases, improved psychological well-being, and a higher overall quality of life are just a few of the benefits.
Tailoring Your Training
To achieve the best results, resistance training programs for older adults should be tailored to be person centered. This personalised approach ensures that the training is safe, effective, and aligned with your specific goals.
For those interested in starting a resistance training program, consulting with an Empower Healthcare Physiotherapists or Osteopaths can be invaluable. Our team can help design a program that meets unique needs and help achieve fitness goals.
References:
Fragala, Maren S.1; Cadore, Eduardo L.2; Dorgo, Sandor3; Izquierdo, Mikel4; Kraemer, William J.5; Peterson, Mark D.6; Ryan, Eric D.7. Resistance Training for Older Adults: Position Statement From the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 33(8):p 2019-2052, August 2019. | DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000003230
Understanding muscle soreness: causes and remedies
Have you ever felt that familiar muscle ache after a workout? That’s muscle soreness, a common experience for those who stay active. But what causes this discomfort, and how can you manage it?
Muscle soreness, felt as pain or stiffness, occurs post-exercise due to tiny injuries in the muscle fibers, known as micro-trauma. Typically, it appears a day after exertion, making muscles sensitive to touch and painful during movement, sometimes reducing strength for up to a week.
Symptoms of Muscle Soreness
• Dull ache
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain with stretching
• Temporary loss of strength
Why Does Muscle Soreness Happen?
1. Eccentric Movements: Stretching a muscle in the opposite direction of its tension can lead to soreness.
2. Infrequent Exercise: If you’re not regularly active, even light exercises can cause soreness due to poor muscle coordination.
Muscle soreness differs from the immediate pain of a tear, as it usually develops hours after activity or the next day. This delay is because pain receptors are in connective tissues, not muscle fibers. For activation, certain substances must be released, causing the soreness experienced.
Common Causes of Sore Muscles
• Introducing eccentric loads
• Restarting exercise after a long break
• Increasing workout intensity rapidly
• Trying unfamiliar movements
• Overusing muscles
• Exercising while unwell
Managing Muscle Soreness
• Use sore muscles gently in daily activities
• Avoid heavy lifting and intense workouts temporarily
• Engage in gentle stretching
• Try light exercises for sore muscles
• Apply heat for pain relief
Prioritising movement is key to staying active and feeling your best. While muscle soreness is a natural part of exercise, persistent or sharp pain shouldn’t be ignored. If discomfort is holding you back Massage Therapy can help and talk to our allied health clinicians who are here to help.
We’ll work with you to manage and prevent pain, so you can move with confidence and keep enjoying your fitness journey. Keep moving, keep thriving
In the world of care management, we understand that tackling heavy workloads while delivering outstanding client care is a daily challenge
We offer practical solutions that reduce caseload burdens, like a simple online referral forms, weekly wait time updates, short wait times, exceptional support and more. Our approach is tailored to meet the needs of care managers everywhere.
