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On World Sight Day (October 12, 2023), the focus is on emphasising the significance of eye care in the workplace. The objective is to encourage employers to integrate eye health initiatives into regular practice, benefiting the well-being, safety, and productivity of employees globally.

 The first step is to prioritise individual eye health through the #LoveYourEyes pledge. Subsequently, the aim is to urge employers globally to offer high-quality eye care for their employees, ensuring its availability, accessibility, and affordability across diverse work settings.

The mission on this World Sight Day is to raise awareness about safeguarding vision in the workplace and call upon business leaders to prioritize their employees’ eye health. Collaborating with global partners and members, the initiative seeks to underscore the importance of #LoveYourEyes and prompt employers to drive meaningful change.

Access workplace resources and learn how to organise a workplace screening to contribute to this cause. https://www.iapb.org/world-sight-day/

Get in touch for any in-home aged care support inquiries or to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠ 

The department of Health has released new guidance checklists providers of home and community care as well as residential aged care to manage older peoples’ health during heatwaves.

Australia experiences high temperatures during the summer, making heatwaves a common occurrence. This poses significant risks, especially for older individuals living alone, without regular contact with others. A checklist has been provided to guide aged care service providers in meeting their responsibilities under the Aged Care Act 1997 and maintaining service quality during heatwaves.

Before a heatwave, providers are advised to identify at-risk care recipients, assess home cooling systems, and ensure they have appropriate support, including family and friends. Contact details should be shared with local emergency services as needed.

During a heatwave, providers should continue care services, potentially sourcing extra staff or volunteers. Care recipients are at heightened risk following high overnight temperatures, so precautions include closing curtains, providing fluids, encouraging frequent small meals, loose clothing, sunscreen, and avoiding outdoor activities between 11 am and 3 pm. Tepid showers and sponging can help, and signs of heat stress like nausea or skin changes should prompt clinical assessments.

Overall, this checklist emphasises proactive measures to safeguard older individuals during heatwaves, aligning with the Aged Care Act’s objectives and quality standards. Further information is available from state and territory health departments to enhance preparedness for extreme heat events in Australia.

The checklists can be found here: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/caring-for-older-people-in-warmer-weather-residential-aged-care

Get in touch for any inquiries or to book a free consultation!

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠ 

In the realm of residential aged care, there exists a disheartening paradox: long waiting lists for admission coexist with many empty beds within the facilities. This discrepancy becomes even more pronounced in certain rural areas, where residential aged care facilities are operating at only half their intended capacity. The root cause of this underutilisation can be attributed to a severe shortage of dedicated staff.

The shortage of staff is a critical issue plaguing these care homes. Qualified professionals who can provide compassionate care to elderly residents are in high demand, but their availability is scarce. As a result, even though there is a pressing need for care, facilities are unable to admit more residents due to their inability to adequately staff and serve them.

Digging deeper into this problem, it becomes evident that one of the central factors contributing to the staffing crisis is the lack of suitable housing for the staff themselves. Many care homes are situated in areas where affordable housing is scarce, making it challenging for employees to secure suitable living arrangements close to their workplace. This housing dilemma not only affects the quality of life for the staff but also poses logistical problems for the care homes in terms of recruitment and retention.

To address this multifaceted issue, some care homes are proactively seeking innovative solutions. These forward-thinking facilities are exploring alternative housing options for their staff, such as offering on-site accommodations or partnering with local housing initiatives. By doing so, they aim to create a more attractive and sustainable work environment, ultimately improving their ability to recruit and retain qualified personnel.

In conclusion, the challenges faced by residential aged care facilities extend beyond the mere existence of long waiting lists and empty beds. Staff shortages, often exacerbated by a lack of suitable housing options, create a complex web of issues that care homes must navigate. Yet, through innovative thinking and proactive measures, some care homes are determined to address these challenges and continue providing the essential care and support that aging populations require.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

The University of Sydney released a study that looked at how the way people live in their 60s can affect whether they need to residential aged care.

The study found that if people in their 60s are not active, smoke, eat poorly, or have trouble sleeping, they are more likely to end up in residential aged care. The researchers looked at data from over 125,000 Australians who were 60 or older. They put these people into groups based on their lifestyle habits.

Here’s what they found:

1. People in the group with the unhealthiest habits had a 43% higher chance of needing to be admitted to residential aged care compared to those with the healthiest habits.
2. The risk was even higher for people aged 60-64 who had bad habits. They were more than twice as likely to needing to be admitted to residential aged care.
3. Smoking was the worst habit that leads people needing to be admitted to residential aged care.

However, it’s important to know that this study can’t say for sure that bad habits directly cause people to need aged care. There are some things the study couldn’t look at, like whether people changed their habits over time or why they needed to be admitted to residential aged care.

If we encourage older people to make healthier choices like quitting smoking, being more active, and getting better sleep, it could help them stay independent and not need residential aged care. This would also lighten the load on the aged care system.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

Avoiding caregiver burnout is essential for maintaining your well-being while providing care for someone in need. Caregiver burnout can result from prolonged stress, emotional strain, and physical exhaustion. Here are some strategies to help you prevent caregiver burnout:

✨ Seek Support: Don’t try to do everything on your own. Reach out to friends, family members, or support groups for help and emotional support. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others who understand can be incredibly therapeutic.

✨ Set Realistic Expectations: Understand your limitations and set realistic goals. You can’t do everything, and it’s okay to prioritise certain tasks and responsibilities.

✨ Take Regular Breaks: Make sure to take short breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing or a short walk can help alleviate stress.

✨ Maintain Your Own Health: Remember to take care of your physical and emotional health. Eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Avoid sacrificing your own health for the sake of caregiving.

✨ Delegate Tasks: If possible, delegate some caregiving tasks to other family members or hired caregivers. This can lighten your load and give you more time for self-care.

✨ Time Management: Organise your day and prioritize tasks. Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to help you stay organised and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.

✨ Respite Care: Consider respite care services, which provide temporary relief to caregivers by offering professional care for your loved one. This can give you a break and reduce the constant caregiving demands.

✨ Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between your caregiving responsibilities and your personal life. Avoid allowing caregiving to consume all your time and energy.

✨ Seek Professional Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, it’s essential to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide support and coping strategies.

✨ Take Time for Yourself: Schedule regular “me time.” This could be doing activities you enjoy, such as reading, gardening, or pursuing a hobby. Self-care is vital for your mental and emotional well-being.

✨ Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your loved one’s condition and available resources. The more you know, the better you can plan and make informed decisions about their care.

✨ Practice Stress-Reduction Techniques: Explore stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. These practices can help you manage stress and stay centred.

✨ Accept Help: Don’t hesitate to accept help when offered by friends or neighbours. People often want to assist but may not know how to offer their support.

✨Stay Positive: Focus on the positive aspects of caregiving and the gratitude you feel for being able to help your loved one. A positive mindset can make the challenges more manageable.

✨ Plan for Resilience: Recognise that caregiving can be a long-term endeavor. Plan for resilience by adopting a sustainable caregiving routine that you can maintain over time.

Remember that caregiver burnout is common, and it’s crucial to prioritise your own well-being. By taking steps to care for yourself, you’ll be better equipped to provide the support your loved one needs. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance and support if you’re struggling with caregiver burnout.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends an additional 2023 COVID-19 vaccine dose for adults aged 65 to 74 and high-risk 18 to 64-year-olds if 6+ months passed since their last shot. For those aged ≥ 75, it’s advised to receive this booster after the same time frame. Consultation with a healthcare provider is encouraged.  

The additional dose is most beneficial for individuals without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, those with medical conditions increasing COVID-19 severity risk or complex health needs, and residents of aged care facilities within the specified age groups. 

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

Dementia Action Week is an initiative from Dementia Australia.

There are great deal of resources available with information on the following:

• Support
• Dementia Helpline
• Counselling
• Living with dementia
• Families and carers
• Early onset dementia

New research from Dementia Australia shows that 81 per cent of people who have a family member with dementia noticed they were treated differently when they went to stores, cafes, or restaurants. That’s why, during this year’s Dementia Action Week, everyone is being asked to do some easy things to make a future where people with dementia are treated better in Australia.

Most people with dementia live in our communities, but many people don’t know much about dementia. This lack of knowledge sometimes causes people with dementia to be treated unfairly or differently. This Dementia Action Week, we want everyone to take simple steps to make our communities more friendly for people with dementia.

There are many tips for people in the community including healthcare professionals. Visit the Dementia Australia website for more information: https://www.dementia.org.au/education.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

The Australian government is trying to make it easier for foreign workers in aged care to become permanent residents because there aren’t enough people to fill these jobs. But at the same time, they are making older temporary workers leave the country, even if they are doing important work.

Australian citizens in their 60s can keep working in aged care as long as they want. However, temporary visa holders aged 57-year-old must leave Australia for being too old according to the immigration rules.

Immigration lawyer Tin Zhu thinks that Australia should change the rules for certain jobs like aged care. He believes it’s unfair that even though someone that has been in Australia for eight years can’t apply to stay permanently because of her age.

Some experts say that older migrants can cost the country more in the long run because they might need more healthcare as they get older. So, there’s a debate about whether Australia should change its rules to allow older workers to stay if they are doing important and understaffed jobs.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

The objective of World Alzheimer’s Month is to increase awareness and combat the stigma associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Despite misconceptions, many still consider dementia as a typical part of aging. Our mission is to educate people about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Early recognition of these signs can lead to access to vital information, support, and treatments.

Alzheimer’s and dementia manifest through a range of recognisable symptoms. A primary hallmark, memory loss disrupts the ability to retain recent events or information. Coordinating activities becomes challenging, often resulting in difficulties with tasks that require precise movements. Language problems emerge as individuals struggle to articulate thoughts, find words, or comprehend speech. Disorientation, both temporally and spatially, causes confusion about time, place, and surroundings. Misinterpreting information becomes common, leading to misunderstandings in conversations or daily activities. Additionally, individuals may encounter problems in organisation, making it hard to keep track of personal belongings or follow routines. One notable symptom is a reduced inclination or capability to initiate activities once enjoyed, reflecting a declining interest in hobbies or social engagement.

Consult with doctors, geriatric specialists, and neurologists who can provide medical assessments, diagnosis, and guidance on managing dementia symptoms.

Gratitude In-home Care has a team of experienced staff members that work with dementia clients on a daily basis in the home care setting. Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) was designed to provide companionship and social interaction for elderly individuals through volunteer visits. The program is available to seniors receiving residential aged care and in-home aged care services, as well as those on the National Priority System, targeted at those facing social isolation. The current program was introduced on July 1 and has approximately 140 organisations currently engaged in the program.

Volunteer visits are a cost-free effort aimed at offering friendship, companionship, and cultivating social interaction with seniors. The program prioritises the needs of older individuals from specific linguistic, cultural, and vulnerability backgrounds who are more susceptible to social isolation. This includes individuals from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, diverse cultural backgrounds, rural or remote areas, financial or social disadvantage, homelessness or at risk of it, veterans, care leavers, those affected by forced adoption or removal, LGBTQI+ individuals, people with disabilities, hearing impairments, cognitive impairments including dementia, as well as those dealing with mental health conditions and trauma exposure.

Funding is provided to community organisations to facilitate volunteer recruitment, training, support, police checks, volunteer-elder matching, and to nurture the relationships formed between volunteers and elderly recipients of care. Volunteers commit to at least 20 annual visits, which can take the form of one-on-one or group interactions in residential aged care homes, or one-on-one visits to individuals with Home Care Packages.

Referrals are accepted from the elderly individuals themselves, as well as from aged care service providers, family members, and friends. Becoming a volunteer visitor in aged care offers a gratifying and transformative experience, as it involves forming friendships, sharing experiences, and providing companionship to those in need of social connection. You can get more information on volunteering here: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-volunteer-visitors-scheme-acvvs/volunteer

Volunteers typically spend an hour with their assigned elderly person once a fortnight, scheduling visits at mutually convenient times and locations, which can include the individual’s residence, an aged care facility, or a public setting. Elderly Australians lacking consistent contact with family or friends, or experiencing cultural disconnection, can be referred to a local volunteer visiting network by their aged care service provider. Additionally, older Australians receiving government-funded aged care services have the option to self-refer to the program. You can get more information on self-referring here: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-volunteer-visitors-scheme-acvvs/request

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

https://gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
[email protected]⁠  [email protected]⁠