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.

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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, Dietetics

Trust your Gut – a guide to help you eat your way to wellness

Posted on January 31, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

31
Jan

The key to a healthier life may have been inside us all along!

It seems not long ago that talking about tummies and how they worked was considered an embarrassment. Nowadays we know better. As far from being merely a tube carrying the forgotten remnants of meals to their exit point, the gut is emerging as playing a vital role in wellbeing and health. From mood regulation to bone health, our guts are responsible for all sorts of important bodily and mental functions and are the undervalued superheroes of the digestive system.

February is gut health month and along with some great resources from our friends at Dietitian Connection Australia, here are some of Empower Healthcare’s top tips for improved gut health.

Eat Well

Focus on consuming a varied diet that doesn’t exclude entire food groups but rather aims to maximise good nutrition. A large body of evidence points to diets that are based on fruit, vegetables, pulses, whole grains, seeds, tubers, nuts and dried fruit as being best for our guts and bodies in general.

Top Tip: Try increasing your veggie and fruit intake by grating carrot into pasta sauce or some apple into your morning porridge.

Move Well

We all know that exercise is good for our muscles and hearts, but it is also great for our guts. The rhythmic movement of walking, for instance, assists our guts to do their work. Exercise is also a great way to manage stress, which has a negative effect on gut health.

Top Tip: Start where you are. There’s no need for expensive gym memberships and equipment, moving more may mean increasing your daily step count with a short walk, adding a flight of stairs to your routine, or completing seated exercises in the comfort of your own living room.

Rest Well

Our guts do some of their best work while we are sleeping. During the night, the tissues in this area grow, repair, and rebuild themselves. Good gut health also aids good sleep by releasing chemicals that regulate our sleep and wake cycle. So it’s a win-win!

Top Tip: Eat the last meal of the day early, at least 3 hours before bedtime, to allow your digestive system to work it’s magic before you try to sleep.

Small changes made consistently can add up to big results over time and help your gut do it’s important work. If you, your client or someone you care for is struggling with tummy trouble that is proving tricky to resolve, our Empower Dietitians can assist. They can develop meal plans that help heal and restore gut function and unlock vitality and well-being at all life stages.

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Announcements, Community, Dietetics, Home Nursing, In Home Care, NDIS, nursing

Living life to the full after Ostomy surgery

Posted on January 23, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

23
Jan

How Empower Nurses and Dietitians can help with Ostomy management

Nurses and Ostomy Care

While many people with a stoma or ostomy can independently care for themselves, there are times when some extra help is required. This may be when adjusting to living with an ostomy, when experiencing illness or when managing additional health conditions or disability. Empower nurses provide general ostomy management and support for people who need it. They are fully equipped for ostomy care and carry emergency kits.

As part of delivering high quality nursing services, our Nurses provide:
• Ostomy bag changes
• Assessment of stoma and skin health
• General assessment of health, including monitoring for digestive problems
• Referral to Stomal Therapists if complex care is required.

Dietitians and Ostomy Care

It is possible for people with an ostomy to eat a full and satisfying range of foods. In fact, eating real food after surgery can help the digestive system to begin functioning again. However, learning what foods are easiest to digest, how a person’s body is responding to certain foods and how to maintain good nutrition following surgery can require the input of a Dietitian.

Dietitians can help people:
• Manage low appetite following surgery
• Ensure adequate nutrition and energy levels
• Develop meal plans that are enjoyable and nutritious
• Make dietary adjustments when necessary
• Monitor dietary intake, digestive health and stoma output
• Manage additional health conditions, like diabetes and hypertension
• Choose and use supplementation appropriately.

For in-home, professional care while recovering from surgery, living with a chronic condition or when managing life’s unexpected health challenges, let Empower take care of your health needs.

Click to read more about our Nursing and Dietetic Services

Catheter management

Medication management

Wound care

Nutrition and the Immune System

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Announcements, Exercise, Residential Aged Care

Empower selected to deliver group therapy program to RAC facilities

Posted on January 16, 2023December 15, 2023 by Nicole Cook

16
Jan

Empower Healthcare is commissioned by the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) to deliver group therapy to RAC facilities.

What is the NWMPHN?

The NWMPHN is a government funded primary health network that supports health providers and organisations in the North and West of Melbourne. The aim is to deliver efficient, effective and accessible care. NWMPHN is operated by Melbourne Primary Care Network (PHN).

What service does Empower provide in partnership with NWMPHN?

Empower clinicians provide evidence backed falls prevention group therapy classes based on the Sunbeam Program. under this PHN funding. This Australian developed exercise intervention aims to improve the physical functioning of those most at risk of deconditioning and falls during COVID-19 restrictions.

NWMPHN commissioned multiple allied health providers to deliver group therapy programs to these eligible RACFs in 2021-2022, aiming to improve physical function of residents at risk of deconditioning due to COVID-19 restrictions.

During the pandemic, our clinicians continued to work with the people most affected by isolation due to restricted freedom of movement and reduced services across the sector. Restrictions and policies limited the implementation of group therapy and we saw the negative effects that had on the residents. We know how important exercise is and were proud to be able to bring this great program to more residents across Melbourne.

NWMPHN explains the expected outcomes for the many stakeholders:

RACF residents:

increased access to allied health services
improved overall health outcomes due to physical reconditioning
more opportunities for social interaction and engagement.

RACFs:

improved health outcomes and experiences for residents
access to group therapy for residents at no cost
increased awareness and access to allied health services within their facility
strengthened relationships with allied health providers.

Allied Health providers:

increased capacity to deliver evidence-based group therapy programs to older adult populations
opportunity to lead group therapy and contribute towards better health outcomes for RACF residents
collection and contribution of robust data that can add to the evidence base and help inform future allied health funding models
strengthened relationships with RACFs.

Striving for Excellence

Empower is dedicated to delivering high quality healthcare services and meaningful outcomes in our community. Our skilled and committed clinicians are excited to continue their mission to improve the lives of aged care residents in partnership with NWMPHN and the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care.

Get in touch if you are interested in achieving fantastic outcomes through group therapy for your residents.

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Exercise matters

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Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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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.

Announcements, Podiatry

Help! When to call the Podiatrist for your toenails

Posted on October 12, 2022October 13, 2022 by Nicole Cook

12
Oct

It’s easy to forget about our toes and toenails, tucked away in shoes and socks or coated in nail polish that may be hiding an underlying problem. Even if you realise there may be something going on with them, they are hard to reach and take care of.

Caregivers and pedicurists can help with basic nail care, but how do we know when the time has come to call in the professionals?

Here are a few things that can indicate the need for a consultation with a podiatrist:

– If your nails are discolored
– When nails become thickened or thinner than usual
– If the nail begins to lift
– If the area around your nail has become red or swollen
– Pain or bleeding of the nail or nail bed
– If there is a loss of sensation in the feet
– When you develop any sores or ulcers on the toes

How can a Podiatrist help?

A podiatrist will perform a full assessment of your feet to diagnose the problem and any underlying causes.
They can then treat many of the conditions that cause toe and foot pain and dysfunction along with ongoing management for chronic foot and toe problems.

What can you do at home to keep nails healthy?

– Keep your nails trimmed by cutting them straight across, not too short
– Clean and dry your feet thoroughly every day
– Expose your feet to fresh air
– Check your toes and feet for redness, discoloration, or sores
– Wear socks that are moisture wicking
– Ensure that shoes are the right size

Podiatrists know the importance of feet and toes and want to ensure yours keep stepping, dancing, and jumping at all stages of life. Take good care of your feet with Empower Podiatrists – they get you where you need to go.

Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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Announcements, Osteopathy

In Profile with Osteopath Matthew

Posted on September 28, 2022September 20, 2022 by Nicole Cook

28
Sep

Meet Empower Osteopath Matthew

Matthew joined Empower’s Home Care Team in Melbourne this year after working in private practice and residential aged care since graduating in 2017.

Why did you choose this career?

I feel that I was destined to work as an Osteo in Home Care and community settings. It’s just the perfect job for me.

What are your strengths as an Osteo?

I’m good listener and as a result can construct a good overview of a person’s health. I see my client’s holistically and can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions using manual skills, exercise and functional activities.

What motivates you?

Treating my clients in their homes is so rewarding to assist them in achieving the goals that will make the greatest difference in their daily lives. Seeing them smile when they have managed to do something that they couldn’t before, makes my day.

What is something you would tell your younger self about your work if you could?

Osteopathy is second nature to you. Stick to the path, don’t hesitate and you will be rewarded.

Is there a quote that you use to explain the work you do?

The goal of the Osteopath is to find health.

Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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Announcements, Legatees, Physiotherapy

The benefits of Hydrotherapy

Posted on September 26, 2022 by Nicole Cook

26
Sep

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is a type of Physiotherapy exercise that is conducted in water but does not require swimming ability. The warm water helps to reduce pain, improve mobility and provide gentle resistance to strengthen while a physiotherapist is in the water providing personalised instruction and facilitation.

How is hydrotherapy different to other aquatic exercises?

During a hydrotherapy session, a person receives one-on-one attention from a physiotherapist who tailors exercises to meet the individual needs of the client. The goals of treatment are specific and designed to improve function and quality of life outside of the water in a way that is meaningful and has long term benefits.

What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy uses the water as a supportive tool to reduce stress on muscles and joints during treatment.

Performing exercises in warm water:
• Relaxes muscles, improving range of motion.
• Can significantly reduce chronic pain.
• Supports weight, allowing for movements that may otherwise not be possible.
• Increases muscle strength.
• Improves balance and reduces fall risk.
• Increases cardiovascular fitness and function.
• Changes blood flow which aids in decreasing joint stiffness, inflammation and swelling.
• Can assist in improving movement patterns.

Who can benefit from hydrotherapy?

It is not an exaggeration to say that almost anyone can benefit from this type of exercise. The strongest research evidence supports offering hydrotherapy to people who have the following conditions:
• Arthritis.
• Chronic pain, including back pain.
• Neurological conditions including stroke, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries and MS.
• People recovering from surgery, especially joint and bone surgeries.
• Circulation disorders.
• Soft tissue and muscle injuries.
• Conditions causing balance difficulties and falls.
• Cardiorespiratory disorders.

How to get started:

As with all Physiotherapy treatments, clients should be fully assessed by their Physio on land before entering the pool.
Hydrotherapy is designed to be inclusive and safe for people, even if they have never been in a pool before.

Empower Physiotherapists offer Hydrotherapy services for suitable clients who want to experience the benefits. Contact our knowledgeable Support Team to find out more.

Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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