Tips to look after yourself as you age

Small steps to look after yourself as you age

If you’re not quite at the stage where you want to take the plunge into home care services, but you do want to make sure you remain independent as long as possible, there are steps you can take to make your life easier right now.

Small things can make a big difference – it might be as simple as organising a railing to support you in the shower or starting an exercise regime. Other services might include physio in your own home to improve your mobility, or podiatry to sort out those sore feet. You might also benefit from dietary advice to deliver healthy eating, exercises to strengthen your voice, advice on alarm systems and key safes, or matters as basic as avoiding trip hazards around the home.

Allied Health services

Allied Health includes therapeutic, preventative and rehabilitation support services. Here are some of the main ones.

• Physiotherapy – Can help restore strength, balance and confidence after a fall; improve mobility; assist if you have difficulty breathing; or provide advice on aids and equipment such as walking frames.
• Exercise Physiology – Can provide exercise and advice if you have a chronic or complex medical condition; and provide rehabilitation after injury or surgery.
• Occupational Therapy – Can advise on home modifications or special equipment, such as rails and hoists; and can help simplify tasks to manage chronic disease.
• Podiatry – Can prescribe orthotics to manage pain; advise on suitable footwear; and treat musculo-skeletal conditions that limit mobility.
• Dietetics – Can advise on improving food choices, managing conditions such as diabetes and gastrointestinal problems; and assist with food intolerances and dietary planning.

How do I access these services?

You can be referred by your health professional for private services, or access Allied Health services as part of home care service arrangements through My Aged Care, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Program, or the more tailored Home Care Packages.