Author Archives: Nicole Cook

Announcements, Dietetics, Wellbeing

The Truth About Malnutrition in Older Adults

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Malnutrition Blog web 1500x800
22
Jul

Malnutrition Blog web 1500x800

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:

  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Reduced appetite or fluid intake
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Digestive issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation)
  • Slow wound healing or pressure injuries
  • Muscle weakness or fatigue
  • Recent illness or hospitalisation
  • Cognitive decline affecting eating habits

 

Quick Screening Tool: Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST)

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.

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Announcements, Muscle Function, Physiotherapy, Wellbeing

Boosting Strength and Health: The power of resistance training for older adults

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Blog resistance training image
17
Jun

Blog resistance training image

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

 

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Announcements, Community, Muscle Function, Wellbeing

Sore, But Strong: Why Muscle Soreness Shouldn’t Hold You Back 

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Muscle Soreness Banner
13
May

Muscle Soreness Banner

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

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Announcements, Community, Wellbeing

Empower Healthcare streamlining solutions for busy caseloads

Posted on by Nicole Cook
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11
Apr

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.

 

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Announcements, Equipment, Multi Disciplinary Team

Optimising Manual Handling

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Manual handling
20
Mar

Manual handling

 

At Empower Healthcare, we’re passionate about keeping our clients and our teams safe. Here’s everything you need to know about optimising manual handling in healthcare.

What is Manual Handling?

Manual handling encompasses any task where force is required to push, pull, lift, carry, lower, or restrain a person or object. In healthcare, this goes beyond simply assisting clients—it’s about ensuring their safety while protecting yourself.

Did you know manual handling injuries account for 58.9% of cases in healthcare, significantly higher than the 43.9% across all other industries (WorkSafe Victoria, 2007)?

Let’s explore how to stay safe while delivering quality care.

Understanding Your Spine

The spine is the structural backbone of the body, offering a stable foundation and safeguarding the nervous system. Its three natural curves—cervical, thoracic, and lumbar—play a pivotal role in maintaining proper posture and reducing strain.

Posture Tips:
• Keep your spine’s natural curves aligned for power and efficiency.
• Engage your deep abdominal muscles to stabilise the spine—think of it as a protective ‘corset.’ Hold that belly button in and breathe steadily!

Poor posture can lead to long-term damage, resulting in sprains, chronic pain, or worse.

Let’s minimise risks together.

Common Manual Handling Injuries

Healthcare workers are susceptible to a range of injuries, including:
• Muscle strains/sprains
• Nerve compressions
• Joint damage (hands, shoulders, knees)
• Hernias and vascular issues

Identifying Hazards and Risks

Certain healthcare tasks—like lifting patients—cannot be fully avoided. This is where policies like the No Lift, No Injury Policy come in, aiming to:
• Minimise manual lifting of clients.
• Encourage the use of lifting aids like hoists and slides.
• Promote client independence wherever possible.

Manual Handling Best Practices

Here’s how to optimise safety during tasks:

Lifting
• Keep feet apart for stability.
• Bend knees, not your back.
• Keep loads close to your body.

Pushing
• Use your body weight for momentum.
• Maintain elbows close and a wide base of support.

Storage
• Store frequently used items at waist height.
• Avoid heavy items above or below shoulder level.

Teamwork
• Use clear communication (e.g., “Ready, set, go!”).
• Coordinate movements for efficiency.

Supporting Patient Transfers

Transfers are safer and smoother with attention to detail:

• Walking: Match your client’s pace and communicate clearly.
• Sit-to-Stand: Maintain good posture and provide balanced support.
• Slide Sheets: Use folding techniques and bed adjustments for bariatric clients.

Your Safe Handling Checklist

• Seek better, more efficient approaches to tasks.
• Avoid twisting—rotate the whole body from the hips.
• Ensure proper equipment is available and know how to use it.
• Call for help if you’re unsure or fatigued.

At Empower Healthcare, our commitment to safety is unwavering. Together, we can reduce risks and foster independence for all. Empower Healthcare is here to train and support your team, ensuring safety and independence for all.

If you have any specific questions or need further information, feel free to ask!

 

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Announcements, Community, Wellbeing

Weekly Wellness Webinars: supporting wellness at home

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Weekly webinars
25
Feb

 

 

Weekly webinars

✨ Join Our WEEKLY WELLNESS WEBINARS! ✨

We are thrilled to introduce our Weekly Wellness Webinars, a series of live Zoom sessions led by our knowledgeable clinicians.  Join us every week to explore how Allied Health services can enhance your wellness at home.

When?: Every Wednesday
Where? Zoom

What?

– Actionable insights
– Practical tips
– Live Q&A sessions with our clinicians

TOPICS INCLUDE:

  • Empowering Independence: Assistive Technology for Home Care
  • Safe Eating: Swallowing and Mealtime Tips
  • Golden Years Nutrition: Healthy Eating at Home
  • Staying Steady: Falls Prevention Strategies for Home Care

Missed a session this month? No problem! Our webinars will be repeated monthly, and updated links will be available on our website.
Got questions? Feel free to reach out to us!

 

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Community, Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Wellbeing

Newly created Retention role, meeting client needs.

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Debbie M blog banner (1)
29
Jan

Debbie M blog banner (1)

Welcome Debbie to Empower Healthcare: Our New Service Retention Officer

At Empower Healthcare, we are excited to announce the addition of Debbie to our team in the newly created role of Service Retention Officer. This position was established to enhance customer satisfaction by ensuring seamless management of planned and unplanned appointment changes within our Victorian POMA (Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Massage, and Allied Health Assistance) services.

Enhancing Client Experience with Debbie

Debbie’s warm and personable demeanour on the phone has quickly established a genuine connection with our clients and coordinators, leading to high satisfaction levels. Our commitment to going the extra mile is evident through our personalised approach, where we invest time in finding and offering alternative appointment options whenever our clinicians are unavailable. This dedication truly enhances the client experience and reinforces our commitment to meeting their needs.

Debbie arrived from England many years ago on a one-year holiday visa and decided to make Australia her home. With 25 years of experience running her own sales and marketing businesses, 10 years at QML Pathology QLD, and the last 2 years in a QLD government call centre managing over 350 services, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the new role.

Impacting Lives Through Continuity of Care

Debbie is passionate about ensuring clients have continuous appointments and do not miss any sessions. She believes in the importance of maintaining the continuity of appointments because of the health-related consequences.

Debbie says,

It’s important to keep the continuity of appointments because our bodies quickly lose muscle memory. By offering alternative appointments with the clinicians they love and have built rapport and relationships with, we help maintain their fitness.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Debbie holds a degree in Biomedical Science and enjoys reading medical thrillers. She is also busy with her cherished eight grandchildren, ranging from 15 months to 8 yrs old.

At Empower Healthcare, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and services to our clients. With Debbie on board as our Service Retention Officer, we are confident that we will continue to enhance our clients’ experiences and ensure their needs are met with the utmost care and attention.…

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Announcements, Community, Mental Health, Wellbeing

We wish you a jolly good self care season!

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Caring for the Carer
04
Dec

Caring for the Carer

We Wish You a Jolly Good Self Care Adventure!

As the bustling festive season draws near, it’s all too easy to become caught in a whirlwind of tasks for others, neglecting the sacred art of self care. Here we are helping you to take a moment to reflect and explore various ways in which you can prioritise your own self care.

 

1. Set Boundaries

It’s important to know your limits and communicate them to others. Saying “no” when you’re overwhelmed is perfectly acceptable and necessary for your mental health. Therefore, make sure to prioritise activities that bring you joy and peace.

2. Schedule Downtime

Amidst the hustle and bustle, ensure you have pockets of time dedicated to relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or indulging in a favourite hobby, these moments of downtime can recharge your energy.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet

With all the festive treats around, it can be tempting to overindulge. Aim to balance indulgence with nutritious meals to keep your body feeling its best. Remember to stay hydrated and incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to center yourself. These activities can help alleviate stress and enhance your emotional health.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Prioritise sleep to ensure you’re well-rested and able to enjoy the festivities. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even with late-night celebrations.

6. Connect with Loved Ones

While it’s easy to get caught up in the preparations, don’t forget to spend quality time with family and friends. Meaningful connections can greatly enhance your emotional well-being.

7. Engage in Physical Activity

Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and relieve stress. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance class, or a workout session, find an activity you enjoy and make time for it.

8. Reflect and Express Gratitude

Take a moment to reflect on the year and express gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. Keeping a gratitude journal can help shift focus to the good things and improve your overall outlook.

9. Pamper Yourself

Treat yourself to something special, whether it’s a spa day, a new book, or a cozy night in. Small acts of pampering can have a significant impact on your mood.

10. Seek Support if Needed

If the festive season becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or professional, sharing your feelings can provide relief.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity, especially during the holiday season. By incorporating these self-care tips, you can ensure that you enjoy a joyful and balanced festive period.

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Community, Multi Disciplinary Team

Empower Healthcare – caring for you where you are

Posted on by Nicole Cook
7R2A0269 scaled
07
Oct

 

7R2A0269 scaled

At Empower Healthcare, we provide in home person centred services

With the convenience of home visits, we not only make treatments easier but also customise our methods to your environment, ensuring an efficient and comfortable journey towards improved health.

Our caring and knowledgeable team of mobile clinicians are ready to help in Home Care, NDIS and Residential Aged Care (RAC). Referrals can be made to one or multiple services as required.
Explore the range of services we provide across all states (VIC, NSW, QLD, WA) as below:
Physiotherapy:
Our Physiotherapists offer comprehensive care addressing unique health goals with a blend of customised exercise programs and advanced manual techniques.

Occupational therapy:

  • Our OT’s are experts in making daily activities easier, address safety concerns and optimise your home environment for your function.

Dietetics:

  • Our Dietiians help in customising and optimising diets and nutrition to improve health and quality of life, while treating and preventing a range of chronic health conditions.

Nursing:

  • Our Nurses are able to complete relevant assessments to implement appropriate treatments, depending on your needs.

Podiatry:

  • Our Podiatrists are experienced in the care of feet, ankles and lower legs providing treatments for conditions arising from growth, ageing, disability or injury.

Speech pathology:

  • Our Speech Pathologists provide assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and management in the areas of communication and swallowing.

Massage therapy:

  • Our Massage therapist will identify the type of massage to best suit your needs to help balance the length and tension of the muscles and tendons helping restore correct positions and increase blood circulation.

Osteopath:

  • Our Osteopaths assess and treat structural and functional integrity of the human body, focusing on musculoskeletal system

Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services

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Announcements, Foot Care, Podiatry

Healthy feet are the foundation of overall wellbeing

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Podiatry Blog web Image
02
Oct

 

Podiatry Blog web Image

Healthy feet are the grounding force for mobility and independence.

When our feet are in good condition, they support our ability to move freely, engage in physical activities, and maintain an active lifestyle. Conversely, foot problems can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and even more serious health issues such as falls, infections, and complications from chronic conditions like diabetes.

By prioritising foot health through regular care, proper footwear, and regular Podiatry attention, we can prevent many of these issues and ensure that our feet continue to support us in leading healthy, active lives.

Common foot problems include:

  1. Arthritis: This causes pain and inflammation in the joints.
  2. Bunions: These are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing pain and deformity.
  3. Hammertoe and Claw Toe: These deformities cause the toes to bend abnormally, leading to discomfort and difficulty walking.
  4. Corns and Calluses: Thickened areas of skin that develop due to pressure or friction, often causing pain.
  5. Diabetes-Related Foot Issues: Diabetes can lead to neuropathy (nerve damage) and poor circulation, increasing the risk of foot ulcers and infections.
  6. Fungal Infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are common and can cause itching, redness, and nail discoloration.
  7. Gout: A type of arthritis that often affects the big toe, causing sudden and severe pain.
  8. Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain.
  9. Fat Pad Atrophy: The thinning of the fat pads on the soles of the feet, which can lead to pain and discomfort when walking.
  10. Neuromas: Nerve enlargements, often found between the toes, causing pain and numbness.

These issues can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, making regular foot care and professional check-ups essential.  In essence, healthy feet are not just about comfort—they are integral to our overall well-being

Why Foot Health Matters

  1. Mobility and Independence: Healthy feet are vital for maintaining mobility, being able to move around independently can significantly impact their quality of life. Foot problems can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and even falls, which can be particularly dangerous.
  2. Preventing Complications: Conditions like diabetes can lead to serious foot problems if not managed properly. Regular foot care can help prevent complications such as infections, ulcers, and even amputations.
  3. Comfort and Pain Management: Foot pain can be debilitating. Proper foot care can alleviate discomfort and improve overall comfort, making daily activities more manageable.
  4. Early Detection of Health Issues: The feet can often show early signs of systemic health issues. Regular foot examinations can help detect problems like poor circulation, nerve damage, and arthritis early on.

Tips for Maintaining Foot Health

  1. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits with our Podiatrists. They can provide professional care and advice tailored to individual needs.
  2. Proper Footwear: Wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes is crucial. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose, and opt for those that provide good arch support and cushioning – we can help.
  3. Daily Foot Care Routine: Keep feet clean and dry. Moisturize to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infections. Trim toenails regularly and carefully.
  4. Exercise: Gentle exercises can help maintain foot strength and flexibility. Activities like walking, stretching, and specific foot exercises can be beneficial.
  5. Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye out for any changes in the feet, such as swelling, redness, or sores. Report any unusual findings to your Empower Podiatrist promptly.
  6. Manage Chronic Conditions: For those with conditions like diabetes, it’s essential to manage blood sugar levels and follow a comprehensive care plan to prevent foot complications.

Foot health is a vital component of overall health, particularly for the elderly and disabled. By prioritising foot care, individuals can maintain their mobility, prevent complications, and improve their quality of life. Regular check-ups, proper footwear, and a daily foot care routine are simple yet effective ways to keep feet healthy and happy.

If you have any specific concerns or need advice on managing these conditions, feel free to you Empower Podiatrist.

 

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