Life is all about choice. How do we spend our free time, who do we spend it with, and what do we have for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? They are choices most of us often take for granted. However, it’s quite common for people to lose their autonomy as they age, especially those who have…
For many, the ageing process can be challenging and lonely. This is reflected in high rates of mental health issues, such as depression, among older Australians. Currently, around half of all aged care residents have symptoms of depression. This is four times the rate of the rest of the community. Six in ten people living…
Like many other industries, technology is changing the face of the aged care industry, providing opportunities but also risks. One big change has been the implementation of robots to help care for Australia’s ageing population. While robots are viewed as a potential remedy for the widening gap between the level of care needed and the…
If you’re concerned about an older Australian who has recently experienced a fall, you’re not alone. It’s a common occurrence, with 1 in 4 people aged over 65 having a fall at least once a year. The consequences of falls for older Australians can be debilitating. 9 out of 10 hip fractures in older Australians…
The number of people with dementia in Australia is projected to double over the next 30 years. Currently, dementia is the second leading cause of death for Australians and the leading cause of death for women. Without a breakthrough, dementia will soon be the leading cause of death for Australians. The projected rise in dementia…
Loneliness is an increasing issue in Australia, with one in three Australians estimated to be lonely. Unfortunately, the risk of loneliness increases as we age. The risk can be especially significant for those living in aged care. Some experts say the impact of loneliness on the ageing process can be worse than smoking. Social connection…
Remaining active as you get older can prove challenging. However, the consequences of not remaining active can be significant. It is estimated that half of the physical decline experienced in old age is triggered by a lack of physical activity rather than age itself. Lack of exercise can lead to several health consequences for seniors,…