Health Professionals 10th April 2019

Health Professionals Brought to you by The Adviser

Enjoying

the outdoors From left, Nate Pelly, 8, Judd Pelly, 10, Zac Gale, 8, Liam Pelly, 11, Bella Gale, 11 and Evie Gale, 5 enjoying the outdoors on their kayaks at Victoria Park Lake.

Photo: Katelyn Morse.

INSIDE: Special 3 page NDIS feature Free online CPR courses Stay active with cold setting in

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Health Professionals Stay active with cold setting in THE winter chill is starting to blow in and as it does it can deplete your motivation to stay active, but there’s no reason you need to take a break from physical activity when the temperature drops. In fact, exercising in cooler weather has some distinct advantages over working out in warmer weather.

STAY MOTIVATED… With the cold weather settling in it can be easy to lose motivation to stay fit, but there are a range of activities you can do that can keep you motivated, including bowling, just like Dylan Beavis and Miller Smith, 3. Photo: David Lee.

TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND • No heat and humidity to deal with • You may be able to work out longer in cold weather, which means you can burn even more calories • It’s a great way to take in the sunlight (in small doses) • Exercise boosts your immunity during cold and flu season TRY THESE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: • Brisk walking or hiking • Jogging or running • Raking leaves

TRY THESE INDOOR ACTIVITIES: • Home workout circuit • Dancing • Active housework like vacuuming and sweeping • Mall walking • Bowling • Yoga or other fun group classes at your local gym, studio or community centre • Stair climbing STAY HYDRATED Don’t forget to drink water when exercising in cooler weather. Thirst isn’t the best indicator that you need to drink.

What to do if somebody is having a seizure AROUND 250,000 Australians are currently diagnosed with epilepsy, and approximately 3.5 percent of the Australian population will experience this neurological disorder at some point in their lifetime.

On a global scale, more than 65 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it the world’s most common serious brain disorder. However, despite these statistics, epilepsy remains shrouded in mystery and misconceptions for much of the community.

Epilepsy Action Australia CEO, Carol Ireland said, “We believe having more friends, family members, colleagues and acquaintances knowing what to do if someone has a seizure will help

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make people with epilepsy feel more confident. This will mean they will be more secure in carrying on with their day-to-day lives, knowing that if they do have a seizure, someone will be able to help them.”

Seizure First Aid – Key Steps • Stay with the person • Keep them safe, removing anything that could hurt them • Don’t try to restrain them • Don’t put anything in their mouth • Roll them onto their side once jerking/shaking subsides • Reassure them until they have recovered • Call an ambulance if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes

Caring for Our Community

Why sleep is key GOOD quality rest is key to ageing well, as during sleep, the brain washes away toxins that can potentially damage the ageing brain that accumulate while we’re awake.

The World Sleep Society (WSS) says seven to eight hours of sleep a day may be the answer to improve our future physical and mental health.

According to the WSS there is increasing evidence of a connection between premature cell ageing and poor sleep. The potentially fatal disease, Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), has been identified as a factor causing premature cell ageing.

Patients with OSA have repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the throat (also known as the pharynx or upper airway) during sleep. A narrow floppy throat is also more likely to vibrate during sleep, which causes snoring.

If partial or complete obstructions occur breathing is reduced or stops for a short time, from 10 seconds up to a minute or more, and blood oxygen levels fall as a result. A brief interruption to sleep that lasts

to ageing better and living longer THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP… With more studies being done on the importance of sleep, the World Sleep Society is saying we should aim to get at least seven to eight hours a day. Photo: David Lee.

for as little as three seconds then occurs, allowing breathing to start again but your sleep is disrupted as a result. These episodes of obstruction may happen many times, even hundreds of times, overnight.

Some people know that their breathing is not normal at night, but may be unaware that this is a medical problem that is causing them harm. Fortunately, good treatments are available.

There is strong evidence that people with

untreated moderate to severe OSA have other health problems including increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, depression and accidents.

Thinking is less clear, mood is down and productivity at work and at home also suffer.

For further information on how OSA can be treated, visit www.sleephealthfoundation. org.au/obstructive-sleep-apnea.html or http://worldsleepsociety.org/

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Health Professionals

TAKE CARE OF YOUR EYES… Our eyes are one of the most important organs in our body, so it is important to take good care of them. Photo: Katelyn Morse.

Suffering from dry, burning, red eyes?

Experts recommend a regular eye care regime CHRONIC eye conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) and dry eye disease are on the rise in Australia and are one of the most common reasons people see an optometrist. However, many people are in the dark when it comes to the importance of regular eye hygiene.

Optometrist, Dr Jim Kokkinakis said, “Why do you brush and floss your teeth?

Not just because your parents taught you to, you’re preventing serious dental disease that can be crippling, both physically and financially. So, why do people often wait until something goes wrong with their eyes before taking care of them?”

Dr Kokkinakis states that good eye health is often ignored. “Too much screen time on electronic devices, exposure to air conditioning and using make-up that has become contaminated are some common mistakes. Dismissing symptoms such as dry, burning, or red

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eyes can lead to the development of larger issues that can end up becoming costly to treat.

“Information is key. It is important for people to understand that regular eye health maintenance is crucial, and it’s all the better if they get into the habit – before they present with a severe eye disease.”

Talk to your optometrist about developing an eye care regime that is right for you.

SYMPTOMS TO BE AWARE OF INCLUDE: • Dry, itchy or red eyes • The feeling of a ‘foreign body’ or sand in the eye • Crusting of eyelashes (particularly on awakening); flaking of the skin around the eyelids • Burning or excessive watering of the eye • Sensitivity to light; blurred vision

Caring for Winter is Our Community coming Take advantage of

free online CPR courses

ALTHOUGH summer is over, Australians remain a nation of water lovers year round, but most aren’t prepared when it comes to knowing CPR. IN fact, 61 percent of pool owners do not have a current CPR qualification.

This staggering result comes from a recent survey, and to help curb this, Poolwerx has teamed up with the Australian Red Cross to offer free online CPR courses.

In its third year, Poolwerx has once again teamed up with Australian Red Cross and Laurie Lawrence’s Kids Alive program to offer the free courses in an effort to educate pool owners and parents about the importance of CPR training.

Craig Henry from Poolwerx Shepparton said, “That’s why during the April Pools Day campaign, we are offering the free online course (valued at $100) teaching the basics of resuscitating infants, children and adults. The course only takes a few hours and could help you save a life. Statistics show a child is 50 percent more likely to survive if CPR is administered immediately.

“Parents will do anything when it comes to the safety of their children however, it’s concerning many wouldn’t know the correct CPR method if their child got into trouble in the water. This is a lifesaving skill everyone should have, not

LEARN CPR FOR FREE… April Pools Day ambassador, Laurie Lawrence is urging the community to take advantage of the free online CPR course being offered by Poolwerx and the Australian Red Cross.

Photo: Supplied.

just pool owners.”

April Pools Day ambassador, Laurie Lawrence said swimming pools remained the leading location for drowning incidents for children under four, which was why it was imperative for parents, caregivers and pool owners to know CPR. “Last year 12 children under the age of four lost their lives in drowning incidents in swimming pools, so I encourage pool owners to take this opportunity to learn the basics of CPR,” Laurie said.

Following completion of the online element, the practical component of the course can be purchased at a 20 percent discount to obtain a full CPR certificate.

People wishing to complete the online course can register at www.poolwerx.com.au/april-pools-day/ until April 30.

so be prepared WITH winter fast approaching it’s time to start thinking about timing your influenza vaccination for maximum protection.

Australians need to be aware that the timing of the influenza vaccination is critical to getting the highest level of protection when the flu season commences.

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners president, Dr Harry Nespolon said there is no need for patients to rush for a flu vaccination as soon as they are available.

“Typically, flu season affects Australia from June to September, with the peak being August,” Dr Nespolon said.

“Recent evidence suggests that protection following flu vaccination may begin to wear off after three to four months, so timing of vaccination is critical to making sure you are not unprotected at the end of the season.

“Holding off from vaccination until mid-April would actually be more beneficial for most patients.

Dr Nespolon said specialist GPs are best placed to advise Australian patients on the timing of vaccination to achieve the highest level of protection during the period of influenza virus circulation based on their individual circumstances.

“Your GP will know when to provide you with the influenza vaccination, to ensure you have the best possible protection when the flu season begins,” Dr Nespolon said.

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in your region

The NDIS and you WITH the roll-out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) happening in Shepparton and surrounds right now, it is important to know what the scheme is, how you can benefit from it and how you go about applying or discovering more information.

When it is fully rolled out, the NDIS will provide about 460,000 Australians aged under 65, who have permanent and significant disability with funding for supports and services. For many people, it will be the first time they receive the disability support they need.

The NDIS can provide all people with disability with information and connections to services in their communities such as doctors, sporting clubs, support groups, libraries and schools, as well as information about what support is provided by each state and territory government.

For further information contact any of the support services advertised on this page, call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or visit www.ndis.gov.au

Who is responsible for the NDIS? The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is the independent Commonwealth Government agency responsible for implementing the NDIS.

Am I eligible for the NDIS?

ENABLING THE WHOLE COMMUNITY… From left, Yvette Knight helping Justine McCartney learn new skills.

Photo: David Lee.

simple questions. These questions are just a guide; the final decision about eligibility is up to the NDIA. You may be eligible to participate in the NDIS if: • You have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday activities • You are aged between 7 and 65 when entering the scheme • You are an Australian citizen or hold a permanent visa or have a Permanent or Special Category visa, and live in Australia where the NDIS is available.

You can find out if you are eligible by answering some

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What services and support will the NDIS fund?

The NDIS funds a range of supports and services which may include: • Education • Employment • Social Participation • Independence • Living arrangements • Health and Wellbeing

in your region

How to apply for the NDIS IF YOU visit the Am I Eligible page at www. ndis.gov.au, you will find the NDIS checklist you can read to see if you are eligible.

If you meet the criteria and you would like to become a participant, by calling the NDIS on 1800 800 110 and ask to make an Access Request.

If you are already receiving disability support services, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will contact you when it becomes available in your area.

Please remember, if you do not receive any disability supports, make sure the NDIS is available in your area before you call to make an Access Request.

Making an Access Request You can call 1800 800 110 to make an Access Request or you can ask for a form.

If you need help filling in the form or making the call, you can contact your Local Area Coordinator, Early Childhood Early Intervention partner or your contact your local NDIA office.

Visit the Contact Us page at www.ndis.gov. au to find an office near you.

Access Request questions As part of the Access Request process, you will be asked: • To confirm your identity and/or a person’s authority to act on your behalf • Questions to see if you meet the NDIS access requirements (age, residence and disability) • Questions about providing consent to enter the NDIS and about seeking information from third parties.

If you currently get disability supports, and you would like your provider to give us your information, you must first provide consent.

You may be asked to provide some additional information after you make your Access Request. This may include information about your disability and how it impacts on your day-to-day life. You can provide copies of existing information, including letters or reports, or you can ask your treating health professional to fill out and sign a form.

LENDING A HELPING HAND… Pasquale Pellegrino getting a hand from Donna O’Sullivan with making a tasty snack. Photo: David Lee.

Providing information about your disability If you make your Access Request over the phone, you can email or post copies of your existing information, including letter or reports, to one of the follow:

• email: NAT@ndis.gov.au • Post to: GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601, or • drop it in to your nearest NDIS office.

If you need help with English, call our TIS service on 131 450.

If you have hearing or speech loss, call our TTY service on 1800 555 677. For Speak and Listen, call 1800 555 727.

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in your region

Intereach is your NDIS ‘partner in the community’ A COM M U N IT Y-BASED organisation, Intereach, has been funded to provide Local Area Co-ordination, Early Childhood Early Intervention, and Community Engagement and Capacity Development as a National Disability Insurance Scheme “partner in the community.”

Intereach senior manager for the Goulburn NDIS area, Kate McRae said Intereach staff are helping people plan and implement their NDIS plans and working with participants, community members, community groups and service providers to provide assistance with the rollout of the NDIS. Ms McRae said they are working hard to ensure local people with a disability have as much opportunity and choice as everyone else.

“We are about making sure people get access to the services they need. Having a disability shouldn’t be a bar to accessing everything in the community that everyone

else gets to access and it shouldn’t stop people from pursuing their goals,” Ms McRae said.

“We want to make sure people are meeting their goals, and if they’re not, what are the barriers and how can we help those people move past them?”

The fact that the Shepparton area was amongst the last of the regions to get the NDIS was a bonus because people will get the benefit of professionals and organisations that have already worked with the NDIS, according to Ms McRae. “I see being the last region to roll out NDIS as a positive given that the NDIS is the biggest social change since Medicare having others come before us and learning from their experiences can only be seen as a positive,” Ms McRae said.

“The tangible benefit is that Intereach has now been working in the NDIS space for over two years and that organisational

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EVERY STEP OF THE WAY… From left, the team at Intereach Shepparton, Michelle Judd, Millie Stephens, Anthony Madu, Gillian McLeod, Simon Humphrey, Alyssa Hamilton, Asma Harrouk, Laura Ash, Jill Smith, Meagan Homewood, Debra McAlister, Stacey Ferrito, Kathy Remilton, Vanessa Cardamone, Dylan Rustem and Yvette Buhagiar who can help take you through all you need to know about the NDIS. Photo: David Lee.

knowledge will absolutely benefit the Goulburn Valley communities.”

After two years personally working with the NDIS system, Ms McRae said the vast majority of NDIS outcomes had been positive for individuals, and with people, services and community groups working hard on adjusting to the new market-based system ‘it’s only going to get better.’

“Intereach recognises that there are already a host of amazing providers and services in the area. The introduction of the NDIS is a massive change to the way business was done before and the service providers in the area are working really hard to adapt,” Ms McRae said.

“Our service providers, our people with disabilities and our core groups have all been working towards inclusion for a really long time and the NDIS is bringing this to the next level. The demand for services, and opportunity for people with disability will

increase with the NDIS. What we have seen in other areas is that services increase to meet those demands.”

Ms McRae said, “For us the individual is the most important person coming through the door. Our job is to help the individual and their family and support networks to make the most out of the scheme. We are the connection that allows people with disabilities to have streamlined access to community and mainstream supports.”

Because the NDIS is new for so many people, Ms McRae encourages people with questions, including those enquiring about early childhood intervention, to call 1300 488 226 or drop into their new office at 1 Sobraon Street, Shepparton.

“We want to be a channel for people to find information and learn more about the scheme. Information is so important in terms of allaying fears and anxiety,” Ms McRae said.