Announcements, Muscle Function, Physiotherapy, Wellbeing

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

Posted on June 17, 2025June 23, 2025 by Nicole Cook

17
Jun

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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Community, Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Wellbeing

Newly created Retention role, meeting client needs.

Posted on January 29, 2025February 12, 2025 by Nicole Cook

29
Jan

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, Physiotherapy

The Rhythm of Recovery with Physiotherapy

Posted on July 17, 2024July 17, 2024 by Nicole Cook

17
Jul

Sisyphus principle of regularity

In community Physiotherapy, we encounter situations where clients face physical challenges, pain, and limitations. We understand these struggles can be tough — why must someone work hard to regain mobility?

Sisyphus and Rehabilitation:

Sisyphus was condemned to push a boulder uphill only to watch it roll back down, embodying the futile effort of repetition.

In rehabilitation, people often face repetitive exercises, setbacks, and slow progress. Like Sisyphus, they persistently push forward despite the seemingly endless struggle. The Physiotherapist becomes a guide, encouraging the client to find meaning in their efforts, even when progress feels elusive.

Finding Meaning:

Physiotherapists can help clients find meaning in their exercise by:

Focusing on small victories: celebrating progress, no matter how minor, gives purpose to each session.
Encouraging resilience: acknowledging setbacks but emphasising the importance of persistence.
Building connections: connecting on a personal level adds depth to the therapeutic relationship.
Creating purposeful routines: structured exercises become meaningful when clients understand their impact on recovery.

Physiotherapy, like Sisyphus’ task, involves repetitive efforts. Yet, by finding purpose in these actions, clients can make meaningful progress.

Empower Physiotherapists play a vital role in navigating the exercise journey, pushing forward despite the challenges.

Reach out today to discuss your clients’ requirements and goals, together we can beat that boulder.

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Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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Exercise, Physiotherapy

When to refer for cardio respiratory Physiotherapy

Posted on July 24, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

24
Jul

Physiotherapists play an important role in managing pulmonary conditions through cardio respiratory Physiotherapy

According to the Lung Foundation, lung disease and cancers are Australia’s second leading cause of death and 1 in 3 Australians will be impacted by a serious lung condition in their lifetime.

Our Physios can help with cardio respiratory Physiotherapy.

Colder weather and covid infections, especially for older people or those with existing conditions, brings signs of sick lungs which can include;

• Chronic cough (eight weeks or longer for adults)

• Shortness of breath

• Difficulty breathing

• Increased mucus production

• Pain or tightness in the chest when breathing

If you notice any of these symptoms refer to our Physios who can help with a process driven assess management approach

• Assess chest and lung function: auscultation, resp rate, resp quality, oxygenation, chest configuration and general health

• Manage acute and chronic conditions

• Provide hands on chest physiotherapy when needed

• Aid return to work and function

• Improve endurance, oxygenation and quality of life

• Assist with managing fatigue

• Develop strategies for living with lung disease, including domiciliary oxygen

• Maintain physical conditioning, balance and strength

• Educate clients, carers and family members about lifestyle modification to improve vitality.

Respiratory Physiotherapy treatments are designed to remove secretions and improve airway clearance and make breathing and functioning easier with aims to;

– Remove secretions

– Decrease work of breathing

– Promote lung expansion.

– Prevent lung collapse.

– Improve respiratory function

– Improve quality of life

Mother nature knows what she is doing by clearing airways and secretions with a good old fashioned cough BUT we can help the cough to be effective or assist when a cough is too weak to clear the chest through;

– ACBT and AD: breathwork combined with positioning.

– Positioning alone for oxygenation and best possible lung function

– Pulmonary Rehab after infection

– Strength and cardiovascular fitness

– Pain management

Physiotherapy aims to holistically improve all the function that our clients have lost through the infection itself, but also from the sequalae of prolonged convalescence and recovery.

Get in touch if you think you or the person you care for would benefit from Respiratory Physiotherapy.

Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services

Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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A Physiotherapists top tips for keeping active this Winter

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Announcements, Exercise, Physiotherapy

A Physiotherapists top tips for keeping active this Winter

Posted on May 24, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

24
May

As the cold and wet months set in, follow these top tips for keeping active this winter.

Staying active in winter requires a bit more planning but it is vital to avoid losing all the fitness and conditioning you may have gained during the warmer months.

Why is exercising in winter so important?

Consistent activity, especially in the fresh air and sunshine, is a powerful immune boosting way to stave off winter bugs. Keeping our cardiovascular system functioning at its best means we are more able to fight off illness and recover from injuries that are a normal part of life. Lastly, exercising keeps you warmer than a blanket by raising your basal metabolic rate, warming you up from the inside and lasting long after you have stopped moving.

Tips for Enjoyable Winter Workouts

Adapt, don’t stop

Perhaps your warm weather, early morning walk with a friend seems impossible when mornings are dark and wet or the idea of a water aerobics class or swim is less appealing when the wind is blowing. Winter may present a great opportunity to shake things up by trying a new exercise class or a different routine. Most important is that you schedule time to prioritise your health and try to have a backup plan if you need to exchange an outdoor walk for an indoor option.

“No such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes” Billy Connolly

Winter is the perfect time to invest in a good pair of shoes with non-slip grip and the right amount of foot and ankle support. Depending on the latitude, a good quality jacket can make even the coldest days, outside days. Whatever the climate, don’t let the weather hold you hostage. Dressing for the weather makes exercising more enjoyable all year round.

Variety is the spice to keep you warm

Have a variety of options, if you prefer to stay indoors on colder days, having a few exercise programs that can be done indoors will help to keep you motivated. Having inside and outdoor options will make exercising possible no matter the weather.

Don’t waste a sunny day

When the sun shines, try to get outside. Activity in the sunshine is linked to improved vitamin D levels and helps to reduce low mood linked to the winter months.

Warm ups and cool downs

It’s never more important to take your time warming up before and cooling down after exercise than it is when it is cold. Be gentle with your body and take the time to adjust to activity and rest, as quick transitions increase the likelihood of injury.

Honourable mention: Some people prefer exercising in winter

For those of us who dislike the warm or have certain heat sensitive health conditions, winter may be the best time to reach those health and fitness goals. Remember that exercise is powerful but slow medicine and increase your activity levels slowly, by about 10% per week. Listen to your body, giving rest and recovery when you feel sore or fatigued.

Lastly, be kind to yourself

Some days just don’t work out- be it a matter of the weather, a winter virus or a complete lack of motivation. That’s OK! As long as it doesn’t become a habit, its totally fine to take a break, have a rest or shake things up.

If you or someone you care for is struggling to get moving due to injury, a health condition, age or lifestyle circumstances a physiotherapy assessment may be the doorway to a healthier, stronger life. Physios can design programs and recommend exercises that take the uniqueness of the individual into account, setting realistic and rewarding goals that matter, at any time of the year.

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Announcements, Community, Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Speech Therapy

An innovative approach to delivering Allied Healthcare to remote WA

Posted on February 28, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

28
Feb

Kojonup: An innovative approach to delivering Allied Healthcare to remote WA

Working together as an integrated team, Empower Healthcare clinicians and Residential Aged Care Facility Springhaven relished the opportunity of in-person collaboration to care for residents despite their remote location.

Kojonup is a town situated 250km Southeast of Perth with a population of little over 1000. Therefore it’s not surprising that the town’s only aged care facility struggles to procure Allied Health locally in order to meet compliance and care standards.

In total WA has only 22 Speech Pathologists per 100,000 of population, and nationally and only 17 per 100,000 in remote regions.

With demand far outstripping the number of allied health clinicians in remote and metropolitan WA areas, Springhaven Lodge in Kojonup was one such facility.

Springhaven Lodge contacted Empower Healthcare West Perth office for Dietetic, Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy services. The challenge of providing these services in the most cost-effective, efficient and sustainable way fell to the team of our Perth based clinicians who understood that an innovative approach to service delivery would be needed.

Empowers interdisciplinary team of Speech Pathologist, Dietitian and OT’s set about developing an understanding of the unique requirements of the facility. They brainstormed the best method of delivering high quality healthcare and the best possible outcomes for the residents and staff. In collaboration with the facility manager, it was decided that a combination of telehealth and in-person assessment, intervention and training was the best approach.

A well planned and outcomes-based trip was organised for the team, who understood that efficiency and efficacy were key when time is limited. During their first day at Springhaven, the clinicians conducted menu audits, individual and process assessments, IDDSI training and implementation and staff training.

Working together as an integrated team, Empower and Springhaven staff relished the opportunity of in-person collaborative care for residents and implementing sustainable interventions and care plans. With ongoing bespoke telehealth and onsite support, Springhaven residents are now receiving the high-quality care they deserve.

We look forward to a building relationship with Springhaven and its residents and bringing this approach to other remote Residential Aged Care facilities in the future.

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Announcements, Physiotherapy

In Profile with Physio/Osteo Team Leader Nick

Posted on February 22, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

22
Feb

Meet Empower Physio/Osteo Team Leader Nick

Nick has been with Empower for 3 years, supporting clients and staff through the most difficult period of the pandemic as a Team Leader in Residential Aged Care (RAC) and as Regional Manager of Aged Care services. Nick now brings his extensive knowledge and experience to a new role as Home Care Team Leader.

Nick began his physiotherapy career in New Zealand, graduating from the University of Otago in 2012. Within a year, he had moved to central Queensland to work as a physiotherapist in a RAC facility, delivering and managing physiotherapy services. Nick honed his leadership skills during Tropical Cyclone Marcia as a member of the Emergency Response Team, where he was responsible for emergency planning and the care and management of residents requiring complex care during evacuation.

After moving to Melbourne in 2016, Nick worked in RAC and Home Care, before joining Empower in 2020. Nick is deeply committed to the well-being of the clients and the clinicians he supports, facilitating and demonstrating high quality healthcare delivery and the best outcomes possible.

Of his work, Nick says,

As physiotherapists who work with people in their homes, we are in the privileged position of getting to know our clients at a personal level which allows us to treat them holistically. I want to ensure that sessions are effective in helping clients achieve their goals, but also enjoyable and something my clients look forward to.

In his spare time, Nick enjoys spending time with his precious baby daughter and wife.

Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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Announcements, Physiotherapy

Our Physiotherapy retention rates benefit everyone

Posted on February 13, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

13
Feb

Retaining talented employees is crucial for any business, but it’s especially important in the healthcare industry where high-quality care depends on experienced and dedicated clinicians.

Empower Healthcare has achieved a remarkable Physiotherapy retention rate of nearly 80%!

This impressive statistic is a testament to our commitment to creating a positive work environment and providing our employees with the support they need to thrive in their careers.

At Empower we strive to provide opportunities for professional development and a positive and supportive work culture. Our physiotherapists report feeling valued, fulfilled, and empowered in their roles, which has led to a high level of job satisfaction. In fact, our anonymous 2022 staff engagement survey found that 93% of our people would recommend Empower Healthcare as a good place to work.

In addition to benefiting the employees themselves, this high retention rate also translates to better care for patients. With experienced physiotherapists staying on the job, patients can expect consistent and effective treatment, with therapists they know and trust.

The company’s leadership is thrilled with this news, and are already looking ahead to the future.

People and Culture Manager Lilian Ghanem says

“The 80% physiotherapist retention rate is a true success story for our company, and we look forward to delivering the best outcomes for our clients and clinicians in 2023”!

We are set to expand leadership opportunities and roles for clinicians and increase the number of in-person professional development and training sessions, while continuing to provide a supportive environment that encourages growth and development for all employees.

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Announcements, Exercise, In Home Care, Physiotherapy

Staying healthy and injury free this festive season – TOP TIPS

Posted on December 13, 2022December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

13
Dec

Stay healthy and injury free this summer by following some simple tips from our clinicians

Stay Active

No need for gyms and studios – going for walks, bike rides or swims are all great ways to stay active for the whole family.

Top Tip: Try to get moving early in the day, before the heat and festivities reach a fever pitch.

Take care of your back

Lifting boxes of gifts, preparing big meals and decorating are all part of many people’s plans but put our bodies in positions and under strains that we may not be used to. Avoid back aches and pains ruining your holiday by taking care of your posture and spine.

Top Tip: Carry heavy loads close to your body and lift them by bending your knees, not your back.

Avoid falls

Many emergency rooms see an uptick in injuries in early January after December mishaps. Changes in routine and unfamiliar surroundings increase the risk of trips and falls. Limiting alcohol consumption, keeping living areas clutter free and asking for help when feeling unsteady can help to reduce the chances of a fall.

Top Tip: Choosing well-fitted and supportive footwear can help to prevent trips and slips.

Indulge in moderation

Sharing great food is a big part of most Australian Christmas celebrations. From pavlovas and prawns to choccies and cheeses, many of us will be indulging in delicious treats over the next few weeks. Make sure that you are still getting enough nutrients by getting 5 serves of vegetables and fruit a day.

Top Tip: Have a healthy snack before heading out for meals.

Stay hydrated

As the weather warms up, it is important to keep hydrated by increasing your water intake. Listening to your body’s thirst cues is the best way to ensure you are drinking enough.

Top Tip: Always make sure you have water with you when exercising, especially in warmer weather.

Medication management

Don’t let changes in routine mean missing important medication. Fill scripts before going away or before public holidays to avoid running out. If you are unsure, contact your Home Care nurse, GP or pharmacy to help you plan for the weeks ahead.

Top Tip: Set an alarm to help you stick to your routine.

Whether you are planning a trip, celebrating with family or having a quiet time at home, Empower Healthcare is here for you throughout December and January. Get 2024 off to a healthy start by contacting our helpful Community Support team today or make a referral via the links.

Announcements, Exercise, Falls Prevention, In Home Care, Physiotherapy

Living at home longer…and better

Posted on November 24, 2022December 13, 2022 by Nicole Cook

24
Nov

Living at home longer…and better. How Physiotherapy can help your clients live as independently and actively as possible.

More Australians are opting to stay in their homes in later life, needing the support of Home Care packages to assist them to live in the place most familiar to them.

The Royal Commission into Aged Care found that Australians of all ages want to be assisted to live independently in their own home during their retirement years rather than having to go to an aged care facility. In fact, only 25% of older people would prefer to live in a facility should they need care.

only 25% of older people would prefer to live in a facility should they need care

So why do older people move into residential facilities?

Moving into a residential aged care (RAC) facility is often a complicated and an emotive decision that usually has more than one deciding factor. However, studies indicate that there are some common reasons that result in a move into residential facilities.

• History of a recent fall
• Recent hospitalisation for illness
• Dependence on others for activities of daily living
• Cognitive impairment
• Age older than 85
• Bereavement and loneliness
• Malnutrition
• Polypharmacy

How can Physio help your clients live independently for longer?

Physiotherapists assess and directly manage some of the risk factors that would otherwise result in people being admitted to RAC facilities. Using evidence backed interventions, physios can improve the function, safety and quality of life of clients who want to stay at home by providing:

• Falls Prevention programs and strategies
• Education for clients and care givers
• Risk reduction
• Functional exercise therapy
• Walking programs
• Rehabilitation after injury and hospitilasation
• Mobility aid prescription
• Referral to other health care clinicians when necessary.

There are less obvious ways that high-quality physiotherapy helps mitigate the causes of loss of independence at home, like:

• Exercise improves appetite (and reduces constipation)
• Activity can improve cognition
• Addressing the causes of pain means less reliance on pain medication
• Functional exercise therapy can directly target and improve ADL performance
• Care giver and family education and support
• Reducing the incidence of back pain for caregivers through demonstrating good manual handling techniques.
• Improving confidence to participate in social activities

Who else can help?

Occupational Therapists for home adaptions, assistive device prescription and functional therapeutic interventions.
Podiatrists for foot care and shoe fittings and recommendations, both of which are vital for safe mobility.
Nurses ensure good medication management, wound care and health monitoring.
Dieticians preventing and managing malnutrition in older people.
Massage therapists assist with pain management and therapeutic touch.
Allied Health assistants provide cost-effective care, supported by clinicians.
Osteopaths work with clients to manage pain and injury to holistically improve the health and vitality of older people at home.

Evidence shows that home and community-based Physiotherapy led exercise programs improve function in older adults living in the community, including those with cognitive impairment.

The best home based Physiotherapy places the needs and goals of the client at the core. With holistic, functional interventions that enable our clients to maximise well-being, safety and vitality while living life on their own terms.