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Category Archives: Announcements

Announcements, Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy

Welcome Genevieve new DOTS Team Leader

Posted on by Nicole Cook
DOT Team Lead Genevieve
12
Dec

DOT Team Lead Genevieve

 

We are thrilled to welcome Genevieve to the Empower Healthcare team as DOTS Team Leader. With a robust background in Dietetics, Genevieve brings a wealth of experience across various healthcare settings, shaping her professional skills and patient care approach.

Genevieve’s career began in rural communities, where she gained a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced in these areas. She then transitioned to community health, helping individuals achieve their health goals.

Her time in the acute sector allowed her to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, providing specialised patient care. Throughout her career, Genevieve has also gained significant project management experience, working to implement and improve services in hospitals.

In addition to her clinical work, Genevieve has found great fulfillment in her role as a Dietetic lecturer. She enjoys teaching and mentoring future Dietitians while staying current with evidence-based practices. This varied experience gives her a holistic view of healthcare, enabling her to address individual needs with empathy and a commitment to enhancing lives through nutrition.

Over the past four years, Genevieve has worked at the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Alliance. There, she led the development and refinement of program management frameworks and guided teams in embedding best practices to deliver impactful outcomes across research and education programs.

Genevieve thrives in collaborative environments where challenges lead to innovation.

I am motivated by helping clients achieve their goals and supporting colleagues by building trusting relationships with a shared vision for success

When she’s not working, you can find Genevieve walking her cheeky cavoodle puppy, playing backyard cricket with her seven-year-old son, or enjoying dinner out with friends and family. She particularly enjoys family holiday time.

The Empower Healthcare motto, “We Change Lives,” deeply resonates with Genevieve. She believes in creating an environment where talent is nurtured and inclusion is fostered. Through mentoring and support, Genevieve aims to make a meaningful impact on the lives of colleagues and clients alike.

Welcome, Genevieve!

 

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Announcements, Community, Mental Health, Wellbeing

We wish you a jolly good self care season!

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Caring for the Carer
04
Dec

Caring for the Carer

We Wish You a Jolly Good Self Care Adventure!

As the bustling festive season draws near, it’s all too easy to become caught in a whirlwind of tasks for others, neglecting the sacred art of self care. Here we are helping you to take a moment to reflect and explore various ways in which you can prioritise your own self care.

 

1. Set Boundaries

It’s important to know your limits and communicate them to others. Saying “no” when you’re overwhelmed is perfectly acceptable and necessary for your mental health. Therefore, make sure to prioritise activities that bring you joy and peace.

2. Schedule Downtime

Amidst the hustle and bustle, ensure you have pockets of time dedicated to relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or indulging in a favourite hobby, these moments of downtime can recharge your energy.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet

With all the festive treats around, it can be tempting to overindulge. Aim to balance indulgence with nutritious meals to keep your body feeling its best. Remember to stay hydrated and incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to center yourself. These activities can help alleviate stress and enhance your emotional health.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Prioritise sleep to ensure you’re well-rested and able to enjoy the festivities. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even with late-night celebrations.

6. Connect with Loved Ones

While it’s easy to get caught up in the preparations, don’t forget to spend quality time with family and friends. Meaningful connections can greatly enhance your emotional well-being.

7. Engage in Physical Activity

Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and relieve stress. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance class, or a workout session, find an activity you enjoy and make time for it.

8. Reflect and Express Gratitude

Take a moment to reflect on the year and express gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. Keeping a gratitude journal can help shift focus to the good things and improve your overall outlook.

9. Pamper Yourself

Treat yourself to something special, whether it’s a spa day, a new book, or a cozy night in. Small acts of pampering can have a significant impact on your mood.

10. Seek Support if Needed

If the festive season becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or professional, sharing your feelings can provide relief.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity, especially during the holiday season. By incorporating these self-care tips, you can ensure that you enjoy a joyful and balanced festive period.

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Announcements, Foot Care, Podiatry

Healthy feet are the foundation of overall wellbeing

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Podiatry Blog web Image
02
Oct

 

Podiatry Blog web Image

Healthy feet are the grounding force for mobility and independence.

When our feet are in good condition, they support our ability to move freely, engage in physical activities, and maintain an active lifestyle. Conversely, foot problems can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and even more serious health issues such as falls, infections, and complications from chronic conditions like diabetes.

By prioritising foot health through regular care, proper footwear, and regular Podiatry attention, we can prevent many of these issues and ensure that our feet continue to support us in leading healthy, active lives.

Common foot problems include:

  1. Arthritis: This causes pain and inflammation in the joints.
  2. Bunions: These are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing pain and deformity.
  3. Hammertoe and Claw Toe: These deformities cause the toes to bend abnormally, leading to discomfort and difficulty walking.
  4. Corns and Calluses: Thickened areas of skin that develop due to pressure or friction, often causing pain.
  5. Diabetes-Related Foot Issues: Diabetes can lead to neuropathy (nerve damage) and poor circulation, increasing the risk of foot ulcers and infections.
  6. Fungal Infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are common and can cause itching, redness, and nail discoloration.
  7. Gout: A type of arthritis that often affects the big toe, causing sudden and severe pain.
  8. Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain.
  9. Fat Pad Atrophy: The thinning of the fat pads on the soles of the feet, which can lead to pain and discomfort when walking.
  10. Neuromas: Nerve enlargements, often found between the toes, causing pain and numbness.

These issues can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, making regular foot care and professional check-ups essential.  In essence, healthy feet are not just about comfort—they are integral to our overall well-being

Why Foot Health Matters

  1. Mobility and Independence: Healthy feet are vital for maintaining mobility, being able to move around independently can significantly impact their quality of life. Foot problems can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and even falls, which can be particularly dangerous.
  2. Preventing Complications: Conditions like diabetes can lead to serious foot problems if not managed properly. Regular foot care can help prevent complications such as infections, ulcers, and even amputations.
  3. Comfort and Pain Management: Foot pain can be debilitating. Proper foot care can alleviate discomfort and improve overall comfort, making daily activities more manageable.
  4. Early Detection of Health Issues: The feet can often show early signs of systemic health issues. Regular foot examinations can help detect problems like poor circulation, nerve damage, and arthritis early on.

Tips for Maintaining Foot Health

  1. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits with our Podiatrists. They can provide professional care and advice tailored to individual needs.
  2. Proper Footwear: Wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes is crucial. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose, and opt for those that provide good arch support and cushioning – we can help.
  3. Daily Foot Care Routine: Keep feet clean and dry. Moisturize to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infections. Trim toenails regularly and carefully.
  4. Exercise: Gentle exercises can help maintain foot strength and flexibility. Activities like walking, stretching, and specific foot exercises can be beneficial.
  5. Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye out for any changes in the feet, such as swelling, redness, or sores. Report any unusual findings to your Empower Podiatrist promptly.
  6. Manage Chronic Conditions: For those with conditions like diabetes, it’s essential to manage blood sugar levels and follow a comprehensive care plan to prevent foot complications.

Foot health is a vital component of overall health, particularly for the elderly and disabled. By prioritising foot care, individuals can maintain their mobility, prevent complications, and improve their quality of life. Regular check-ups, proper footwear, and a daily foot care routine are simple yet effective ways to keep feet healthy and happy.

If you have any specific concerns or need advice on managing these conditions, feel free to you Empower Podiatrist.

 

When to call a Podiatrist for your toenails

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Announcements, Dementia

Understanding Malnutrition in Individuals with Dementia

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Malnutriton and dementia web
09
Sep

Malnutriton and dementia web

Dementia is a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to cognitive decline and impacting daily living activities. One of the significant challenges faced by individuals with dementia is malnutrition.

This blog explores the causes, consequences, and strategies to manage malnutrition in those living with dementia.

 Causes of Malnutrition in Dementia

  1. Cognitive Impairment: Dementia affects memory, attention, and decision-making abilities, making it difficult for individuals to remember to eat or recognize hunger cues.
  2. Physical Limitations: Motor skills can decline, making it challenging to prepare meals, use utensils, or even chew and swallow food properly.
  3. Behavioral Changes: Changes in behavior, such as increased agitation or depression, can lead to a lack of interest in food.
  4. Sensory Changes: Altered taste and smell can make food less appealing, reducing the desire to eat.
  5. Medication Side Effects: Some medications used to manage dementia symptoms can cause nausea, loss of appetite, or other gastrointestinal issues.

 

Consequences of Malnutrition

Malnutrition can have severe consequences for individuals with dementia, including:

  • Increased Cognitive Decline: Poor nutrition can exacerbate cognitive impairment, leading to faster progression of dementia symptoms.
  • Weakened Immune System: Malnutrition can compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
  • Muscle Weakness and Frailty: Lack of proper nutrition can lead to muscle wasting, increasing the risk of falls and fractures.
  • Dehydration: Often accompanying malnutrition, dehydration can cause confusion, urinary tract infections, and other health issues.

 

Strategies to Manage Malnutrition

  1. Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitor weight, food intake, and hydration levels to identify early signs of malnutrition.
  2. Nutrient-Dense Foods: Offer small, frequent meals that are high in calories and nutrients. Include foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
  3. Create a Pleasant Eating Environment: Reduce distractions, use solid-colored plates, and ensure the dining area is well-lit to make mealtime more enjoyable.
  4. Finger Foods: For those with difficulty using utensils, provide easy-to-eat finger foods like sandwiches, fruit slices, and cheese sticks.
  5. Hydration: Encourage regular fluid intake by offering water, juices, and soups. Use straws or adaptive cups if needed.
  6. Involve in Meal Preparation: Engage the individual in simple meal preparation tasks to stimulate appetite and provide a sense of accomplishment.
  7. Consult Professionals: Work with dietitians, speech therapists, and occupational therapists to develop personalized nutrition plans and address specific challenges.

Malnutrition in individuals with dementia is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to manage effectively with the assistance from an Empower Dietitian. By understanding the causes and implementing targeted strategies, we can significantly improve the nutritional status and overall quality of life for those living with dementia. We use patience and empathy in supporting individuals through their journey with dementia.

If you have any specific questions or need further information, feel free to ask!

 

Speech Pathologists and Dietitians work together to help people with Dysphagia

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Announcements, nursing

Graduated Compression Therapy with Empower Nurses

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Compression socks
31
Jul

Compression socks

Better healing with Graduated Compression Therapy

Graduated Compression Therapy (GCT) is a carefully designed approach for the prevention and management of venous return (the rate of blood flow back to the heart) and to reduce oedema (build-up of fluid in the body)

Compression bandages or garments applied externally are like a continuous hug for the limbs. Empower Nurses are trained in identifying which compression is needed for each unique need. They strive to create a perfect balance between elastic and inelastic materials for the most effective results.
Leg ulcers can be a persistent condition that may recur over time. Dealing with them can be emotionally taxing and costly. Our Nurses are trained to alleviate the long-term complications of chronic venous insufficiency, including venous pooling and capillary permeability (the passage through the capillary wall).

 

2019 06 07 compression garments damaged veins en

GCT enhances the healing rates of ulcers compared with no compression.
Our approach includes compression bandages, wraps and garments. We make sure to customise the type of compression system used to specific needs, as the choice of system influences the healing rate.

Medical compression is classified as:
Class I: 20-30 mmHg
Class II: 30-40 mmHg
Class III: 40-50 mmHg

The client will have to have a vascular assessment completed by the nurse to rule out any underlying medical issues or contradictions that may negatively impact compression application.
Our dedicated team of Nurses can apply Class 1 compression, and in some cases, class II compression bandages and garments after conducting a thorough vascular assessment. This is to ensure that there are no underlying medical issues that may impact the effectiveness of the compression application.
Our goal is to enhance quality of life and independence through personalised care.

 

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Announcements, Community

Meet Gemma Campbell – WA Relationship Manager

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Gemma Campbell Web banner with title
29
Jul

 

Gemma Campbell Web banner with title

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.

Welcome aboard, Gemma.

 

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Announcements, Physiotherapy

The Rhythm of Recovery with Physiotherapy

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Physiotherapy Sisyphys
17
Jul

Physiotherapy Sisyphys

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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Announcements, Dietetics, Multi Disciplinary Team, Speech

Speech and Dietetic multidisciplinary approach to Dysphagia

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Multidisciplinary Approach Speech Dietetics
02
Jul

Multidisciplinary Approach Speech Dietetics

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.

 

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Meet Speech Pathologist Sharon 

Meet Dietetic Team Lead Kara

 

Simply click on the image below for our referral form.

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Announcements, Dementia, Home Nursing, In Home Care, nursing

Empower Nurses provide Dementia and Cognition Assessments

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Nursing cognitive assessment blog 1500x800
15
May

Nursing cognitive assessment blog 1500x800

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. 

 

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Announcements, Community, In Home Care, Speech

Strategically minded Dennis Lo heads up our DOTS team

Posted on by Nicole Cook
Dennis Lo Web (1500 x 800 px)
08
Apr

Dennis Lo Web (1500 x 800 px)

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.

 

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