Say hello to Gemma our newest Western Australia team member.
Gemma’s career journey has spanned 25 years across the disability sector, enriching her life with countless inspiring individuals and experiences along the way. Her work ranges from non-profit roles with Strive Community Services WA to managing Disability Residential Care Homes in the UK.
Guided by her dedication to crafting a more inclusive world, Gemma has been a champion for the disability and health sectors. Her philosophy? It takes a community to truly support individuals. She’s on a mission to deliver high-quality services here at Empower Healthcare.
I channel my skills and experience towards fostering inclusivity and collaboration – both in my team and within the wider community. My commitment lies in providing accessible and high-quality care. I aim to bring about positive change, transforming lives for the better, every single day.
Originally hailing from London, Gemma has made Perth her home for the past 14 years, embracing the city’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle. She’s a camping, kite surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding enthusiast, with two lively boys keeping her active.
Being a people-person at heart, Gemma derives immense satisfaction from helping others reach their goals, no matter how big or small. She’s a firm believer in the transformative power of community and support. Armed with her passion and dedication, she’s eager to connect with everyone at Empower Healthcare and the broader community on our shared journey.
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.
Speech Pathologists and Dietitians work together to help people with Dysphagia
Dysphagia is the medical term for ‘difficulty in swallowing’. Causes of dysphagia are any condition or event that weakens, damages, or removes the muscles, nerves, and/or other structures used for swallowing.
A person’s quality of life and ability to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration is impacted by Dysphagia. Speech Pathologists and Dietitians work together with a multidisciplinary (MDT) approach to ensure quality outcomes for the people they care for.
Swallowing Assessment
It is the role of a Speech Pathologist to trial different food textures and conduct an oral motor examination to better understand how a person is chewing and swallowing their foods.
The person with Dysphagia may be have long meal times which are fatiguing and therefore unable to consume enough nutritional content or they are aspirating on their food and drink. Aspiration means food is emptying into the lungs rather than into the oesophagus to the stomach.
To assist these clients, we can make recommendations to modifying the texture of their food and drink as well as implementing some the safe swallowing strategies such as
small frequent meals
reducing distractions during mealtimes
building meal time routines
Nutritional Assessment
Following a swallowing assessment from a Speech Pathologist, a Dietitian will assess a person’s nutritional status and work with them to maximise their nutrition.
It is well known that Dysphagia significantly increases the risk of poor nutritional status. This results in malnutrition, dehydration, and the social and psychological impacts on both the person and carer. A Dietitian will work closely with a Speech Pathologist to implement suitable food and fluid consistencies, otherwise known as texture-modified diets. Usually, a Speech Pathologist will recommend a texture modified diet that is safe to be consumed by the person, whilst a Dietitian will provide support to optimise food and fluid intake whilst adhering to the required consistencies.
Person centred care ensures the social and psychological impacts of such diets are reduced, and that individuals can preserve the enjoyment of eating and drinking as much as possible. These considerations are important in preserving quality of life and the independence of an individual.
MDT Approach
If someone is unable to obtain enough nutrition or hydration from a texture-modified diet, a Dietitian may recommend other methods to improve their nutrition, such as oral nutrition supplements. Again, a Dietitian will consult with a Speech Pathologist to ensure the consistency of such beverages are safe for the person.
If oral nutrition supplements are not successful or swallowing ability further deteriorates, both the Dietitian and Speech Pathologist may recommend that a person receive their nutrition and hydration through tube feeding. In contrast, when someone is receiving nutrition via tube feeding and it may be possible for an individual’s swallowing to improve, a Dietitian and Speech Pathologist will work closely to assist in transitioning the person to an oral diet.
The multidisciplinary approach of Speech Pathologists and Dietitians in a community care setting ensures the needs of those with dysphagia are met.
Through collaboration and acknowledging the expertise of the other discipline, both Dietitians and Speech Pathologists provide individualised care and positively influence not only the health, but well being of those living with Dysphagia.
A fast and convenient way to access cognition supplement funding.
Your client may be eligible for additional funding through the Dementia and Cognition Supplement which can be provided by our Empower Nurses. This supplement offers an extra 10% on top of the Home Care Package funding to help keep clients at home for longer.
Who is Eligible?
The supplement is designed for people with dementia or cognitive impairment,. To be eligible, they need to demonstrate a need for regular supervision and assistance with daily activities.
Assessment Process
The assessment itself is a one-hour visit by a member of our Empower Nursing Team.
During the visit, the Nurse will use a cognitive assessment tool, such as the Psychogeriatric Assessment Scales or the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale to evaluate the client’s cognitive function.
The case manager then submits the form to Services Australia.
These assessment tools are recognised by the Department of Health. See more details.
Potential Benefits
The supplement can be highly beneficial for both clients and home care providers.
For clients, it can mean an additional 10% in funding, which can greatly contribute to their ability to stay at home.
For home care providers, it means more resources to provide the necessary care and support for their clients.
Efficiency and Convenience
One of the key advantages of this supplement is that it provides a fast and convenient way to access additional funding. The assessment can be completed in one hour, and the outcome is provided on the same day. This means that the client doesn’t have to wait for a long time to find out if they’re eligible for extra assistance.
The Dementia and Cognition Supplement offers a streamlined process for clients to access additional funding. This supplement can be a game-changer for clients with dementia or cognitive impairment, as it provides the financial support they need to stay at home for longer, where they are most comfortable and surrounded by a familiar environment.
So, if you haven’t already, make sure to inform your clients about this supplement and make an Empower Nursing referral today.
Welcome strategically minded Dennis Lo –
Dietetic, Occupational Therapy & Speech Pathology Manager
With a proven track record of driving operational excellence and clinical governance, Dennis has a passion for building high-performing teams with a focus on gaining positive outcomes within the rehabilitation, and disability sectors.
As a Speech Pathologist and Associate Fellow of the Australasian College of Health Service Management, Dennis has extensive experience in clinical leadership and assistive technology from NSW Health, Independent Living Centre Tasmania and LifeTec Australia.
Experienced Speech Pathologist and Manager Dennis’s desire to empower individuals to reach their communication potential is the ideal fit for our Dietetic, Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology teams and the people they care for.
Witnessing the profound impact communication has on a person’s life motivates me to build teams that can collaboratively create client centred strategies and deliver exceptional client outcomes
Supported by Dennis his team will feel valued and empowered. They will be equipped to contribute their unique skills and experience with collaboration being central to achieving exceptional care and making meaningful differences in the lives of the people they care for.
Outside of work you will find him engrossed in strategic board games, always on the lookout for the next challenge and to find innovative solutions that make a real difference – which is perfectly aligned with his work ethic.
Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services
Simply click on the image below for our referral form.
A staggering 20% of food that Australians buy goes into the bin unused or expired. By being mindful of shopping habits and making small changes, you can enjoy both the benefits of saving money and eating healthily while also doing your part to reduce food waste.
Here are a few quick tips;
Planning your meals for the week can help you make a grocery list that ensures you only buy what you need, reducing the risk of impulse purchases.
Look for sales and discounts on items you regularly use and consider buying in bulk for items with a longer shelf life.
Opting for seasonal fruits and vegetables can not only save you money but also provide you with fresh and flavourful ingredients for your meals.
Be Prepared
By checking what you already have at home and aligning your meals with what’s on sale, you can not only save money but also make sure you’re eating balanced and nutritious meals. Once you have your plan and shopping list ready, you’ll find that grocery shopping becomes more efficient and cost-effective.
Reviewing supermarket catalogues can provide an insight into items that are on special, providing additional savings. Plus, having a meal plan in place can help you stay organised throughout the week and reduce food waste.
Take the time to plan, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of healthier choices and a happier wallet.
Timing the Shopping Adventure
Timing can play in your favour, as supermarkets often mark down prices later in the day. Items like bakery goods, fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy typically go on sale in the evenings. Opting for canned or frozen foods can also help reduce food waste.
Purchase fruits and vegetables unpackaged, rather than pre-packaged, to help cut down on food waste (you only buy what you need) and be more eco-friendly. Buying in bulk during sales can save money, but ensure you have a storage plan in place to prevent spoilage, as it won’t be a deal if it goes to waste.
When buying meat, consider purchasing larger cuts and dividing them into smaller portions for future meals. This not only saves money but also reduces the risk of food spoilage. Additionally, try to plan your meals ahead of time to make sure you use up all the ingredients you purchase.
Leftovers can be transformed into delicious new dishes to prevent them from being thrown away. By being mindful of your purchasing habits and making smart choices, you can not only save money but also contribute to reducing food waste and being more environmentally conscious.
Prepare Locally and Expand Shelf Lives
By being mindful of your food choices and storage methods, you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Explore local farmer’s markets can provide you with fresh, seasonal produce at affordable prices.
Get creative in the kitchen by trying out new recipes that incorporate leftovers or make use of ingredients that are on sale.
To preserve your fresh produce, keep it away from direct sunlight and separate ripe fruits from less ripe ones to avoid hastening the ripening process.
When storing vegetables and fruits in plastic bags or containers, include two sheets of paper towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent spoilage.
Some fruits and vegetables naturally have a longer shelf life and are wise choices for your weekly shopping list, such as cabbage, celery, carrots, onions, fresh beetroot, potatoes, and pumpkin.
Meat advice
Meat can be a pricey item in your shopping list. Supporting local butchers for your meat needs is not only a great way to connect with your community but also a sustainable choice that can help reduce waste and cut down on costs.
Buying in smaller quantities can help minimize waste and ensure that you are only purchasing what you need. Understanding the recommended serving sizes for cooking can be beneficial, as we tend to overindulge in meat. Aiming for around 100g of uncooked meat or chicken by weight is ideal.
To stretch meat dishes, consider adding budget-friendly ingredients like tinned lentils and beans, which complement dishes such as tacos, bolognaise, meatloaf, and burger patties.
If you need some help with menu planning or if you have some specific dietary or health requirements our Empower Dietitians offer practical solutions for improving nutrition and wellbeing on any budget.
Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services
Simply click on the image below for our referral form.
Passionate Speech Pathologist enjoys new challenges and assisting clients in the community.
Sharon joined Empower Healthcare to focus on working with adults and guiding students on placement, aligning with her career aspirations.
Her daily work is driven by the belief that communication is a fundamental human right, enabling interaction, self-expression, and identity.
The gratitude and positive feedback she receives from clients inspire and affirm the significant impact she is making on people’s lives.
Sharon works with Home Care and NDIS clients in Victoria’s North and West. Her scope of practice includes working with adults with neurological conditions and swallowing and communication disorders. Sharon empowers clients to improve their communication skills to help them actively engage in society to form meaningful connections.
Outside of work she prioritises physical and mental well-being by dedicating time to strength training and relaxing in an infrared sauna post-workout. Meditation is also essential to her to help find tranquility and mental clarity amidst a busy schedule. She is always eager to explore new ways to enhance overall well-being for both herself and the people she cares for.
Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services
Simply click on the image below for our referral form.
In the world of healthcare, the power of massage therapy goes far beyond relaxation for older clients.
At our core, we believe in the transformative impact of massage on quality of life, promoting independence and providing care tailored to each individual.
In 2022, over 4 million Australians were living with chronic pain and the prevalence increases as we age, 80% are aged care residents. With an ever rapidly growing aged population, this number is increasing at a rapid rate each year.
Chronic pain is any pain that persists for more than 3 months.
The four most common sources of chronic pain include:
Lower back – can be debilitating and restrict activity
Cancer Pain – a common issue for individuals with advanced cancer.
Arthritis Pain – often manifests as joint stiffness or swelling.
Headaches – including migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches, are among the most prevalent chronic headaches.
The sensation of pain is the result of a series of messages that swiftly travel through the nervous system. Pain sensors activate in a specific area when experiencing an injury. These sensors transmit an electrical signal that progresses from one nerve to another until it reaches your brain. Your brain interprets the signal and sends a message to you, yelling, IT HURTS!
Our mission is to enhance the well-being of each person regardless of health status. By focusing on individualized care and empowering our clients to take control of their health and happiness, we aim to create a space where everyone feels valued and supported on their journey towards better quality of life. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care.
How does massage help sufferers of chronic pain?
Massage therapy for chronic pain decreases pain, tension, stress, enhances relaxation and improves range of motion.
Massage therapy is a non-invasive method used to manage chronic pain. While it’s not a cure for chronic diseases, when combined with physical activity and a treatment plan, massage can effectively reduce pain, alleviate stress, and positively impact the lives of individuals dealing with chronic pain over extended periods.
During a massage session, the temperature of muscles rises as blood circulation increases. This rise in muscle temperature enhances the flexibility and elasticity of tissues, allowing muscles to relax and stretch.
Experiencing the holistic benefits of massage therapy and discover the positive impact it can have on your overall well-being. Embrace the power of personalized care, independence, and quality of life as we work together to help you achieve your health goals. Your journey to wellness starts here.
Get in touch if you think you or the person you care for would benefit from massage
Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services
Simply click on the image below for our referral form.
Falls don’t ‘just happen’ and become more common and consequential as we age.
Falls are Australia’s number one cause of injury hospitalisation and injury related death representing 43% of injury hospitalisation and 42% of injury deaths1.
In Australia, 30% of adults aged 65 and over will experience at least one fall a year. This age group were more likely to be hospitalised or die from a fall compared with other life-stages. This data is informed by our older Australians that present to hospital with an injurious fall.
Unfortunately, the other ‘falls, slips and trips’ that happen at home are not always reported due to
Fear of reporting
Fear of losing independence
Fear of institutional care
Lack of confidence
Most hospitalised falls occur in the home and it’s up to the individual – their family and supports to assist. The good news is fall CAN be PREVENTED.
Empower Multidisciplinary Team can help with
Improving confidence
Participation in balance and mobility exercises
Falls prevention assessment and interventions
Gait, balance and functional training
Strength and Balance Exercise
Multifactorial interventions
Home safety assessment & modifications
Foot health
Medication reviews
Continence
Dizziness and vertigo
Physiotherapists help with – Keeping Active, Strong and Independent2
Aerobic Physical Activity
Muscle Strengthening
Functional balance and strength training
Replacing sedentary time with more physical activity
OTs help with – Living safely and independently at home and in the community
Comprehensive clinical assessment
Hazard assessment
Hazard removal
Adaptive equipment
Task modification
Education
Shared decision making
Awareness raising
How we can help?
The FROP (Falls Risk for Older People) is a useful resource flow chart to guide what we can do to prevent falls.
Get in touch if you think you or the person you care for would benefit from a Falls assessment or assistance.
World Health Organisation WHO: Guidelines on Physical Activity and sedentary behaviour (2020). EXECUTIVE SUMMARY – WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
Natasha has been a practising Massage and Myotherapist for the past 12 years. She has worked with a lifespan of clients helping them improve their health, to live their best life. Natasha has a passion for leading dynamic teams to achieve optimal outcomes for clients and their families and is looking forward to leading the Victorian Massage Therapy team to achieve great things.
Natasha has spent numerous years working with Commonwealth and Olympic athletes on injury prevention, treatments, and rehabilitation programs. Travelling both within Australia and overseas leading teams of clinical staff in various settings has given her great insight into the importance and many aspects of Olympic level teamwork.
One of the most rewarding roles she has had to date was symptom managing palliative and aged care clients with terminal illnesses. Natasha led a team of 16 clinicians across four disciplines in Massage, Occupational Therapy, Music Therapy, MND Family support work. The interdisciplinary nature and collegiality of the work was both motivating and made going to work each day a joy for her.
Treating clients specifically for symptom management brings rewards to not only the client, but their loved ones who are so grateful for the care. I am passionate about leading and working with a team to create great outcomes for clients and their families and friends.
Natasha enjoys a work life balance, continuing to upgrade her industry knowledge, keeping fit at the gym, following live music events and spending time with her two Cavoodles, Chai and Murphy.
Get Started With Our Home Care & NDIS Services
Simply click on the image below for our referral form.
