In this essential episode of Conversations with G & G, we sit down with Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) Pip Spence to dive deep into how the right diet can unlock better health, strength, and independence for older Australians.
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Pip reveals the critical difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist and the 3 vital red flags carers must watch for to spot early malnutrition. She provides practical, evidence-informed advice on boosting protein and calcium to prevent falls, manage conditions like diabetes, and ensure your loved one is eating for enjoyment and well-being.
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๐๏ธIn this episode, you will learn:
Why nutrition has been an "under the radar" issue in aged care and the impact of the new aged care standards on food and nutritionThe top challenge for older Australians: not eating enough, and why they actually need higher amounts of nutrients like protein and calciumThe difference between a regulated Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and an unregulated nutritionist, and why an APD is essential for clinical careThe crucial signs of malnutrition for carers to look for: loose clothes, ill-fitting jewellery, and chewing or swallowing difficultiesHow dietetic services are covered under the Home Care Support Plan and typically require no core contribution from participants (falling under clinical services)Why the APD assessment is holistic, involving a review of the fridge, medical history, medications, and linking clients to other allied health support (Physio, OT)The recommended protein target for older people and why dairy products are a 'superfood' for protein and calcium๐ฅ Who is this episode for?
Family carers trying to make the best choices for their parent or partnerOlder Australians navigating significant life changes who want to maintain their independence and dignity at homeReferrer networks (GPs and allied health professionals) needing resources to guide families toward safe and necessary servicesEmployed carers and aged care workers seeking practical knowledge and better ways to support client wellbeing.๐ Learn more and trusted resources
My Aged Care โ practical guidance on services, assessments and finding providers: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/ Carer Gateway โ support, counselling and respite options for family carers: https://www.carergateway.gov.auโน๏ธ Who is Conversations with G&G?
Conversations with G&G is dedicated to supporting the people who support others. We are a podcast and content hub focused on in-home aged care, carer wellbeing, allied health, and disability support. We share real stories, practical education, and evidence-informed insights from the caregiving community, especially in the Geelong/Victoria regional context. Our mission is to inform, support, and empower those navigating the aged care system.
Updates and insights on the Support at Home ProgramCaregiver health and burnout preventionMental health support for carers in AustraliaFall prevention, mobility, and quality of life strategiesPractical steps for due diligence when choosing a quality provider in the Geelong/Ballarat regions.๐ฌ LEAVE A COMMENT to share your experience: What was the hardest sign to spot when you realised your loved one needed help?
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