Allied Health services play a powerful role in helping older people live well, safely and independently. Sitting under that banner is Exercise Physiology, an incredibly valuable service that is often confused with Physiotherapy. Not any more…

In this episode of Age Old Problems: New Aged Care, we explore the role of Exercise Physiologists (EPs) with the ultra-enthusiastic Harry Beresford, who is the Exercise Physiology Manager in Home Care at Helping Hand.

As Harry explains to host Kate Holland, EPs are specially trained health professionals who design tailored exercise plans to support strength, balance, memory, and recovery. Together, they also discuss how EPs differ from physiotherapists, and explore:

• What Exercise Physiology is and how it benefits older people
• How EPs help manage chronic conditions like diabetes and osteoporosis
• What a first appointment typically involves
• Real examples of how EPs have helped clients achieve meaningful goals
• What advice to give if someone isn’t sure they need allied health support

Allied health might not be on everyone’s radar, but it should be. The right kind of support can make life easier, safer and more joyful.

EPs at Helping Hand offer group programs (including Age Well Fitness), one-on-one sessions at our Wellbeing Centres, and home visits to help older people maintain independence and improve quality of life. For instance, an EP might help someone walk to the shops, get back in the garden, or move safely around the house.

Unlike some providers who outsource, Helping Hand has its own team of qualified, insured and uniformed staff, so clients always know who's walking through the door.

Useful Resources:

Helping Hand website

Helping Hand phone number - 1300 653 600

Helping Hand allied health information

Help at home with Helping Hand

Episode hosted by Kate Holland

Episode recorded and edited by Drew Radford

Age Old Problems: New Aged Care is recorded and edited on Kaurna land.