The Carer's Champion by agedcarewithease212

ISSUE 2 | OCTOBER 2021

The Carer's Champion Easing the Caring Journey for all!

In this issue: Tips, Traps, and Tricks for Carers!

LIFESTYLE Experts sharing their wisdom to help you live your best life.

A DAUGHTER'S STORY Supporting Parents on the caring journey

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Sharing about the products and services available to ease the caring journey.

GUEST COLUMNIST WHY I DO WHAT I DO Talking with people across the aged care sector to find out why they do what they do.

Susie Burrell Nutritionist/Dietitian

Shining a light on the most important thing to include in your aged loved one's diet

OCTOBER 2021

The Carer's Champion

Editorial Contributions are welcome however authors must include their names and addresses. Full names may be published unless you request otherwise. Contributions should be sent as Word or PDF documents. Contributions may be edited in accordance with standard editorial practice. While due care is taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, The Carer's Champion accepts no responsibility for any information contained in contributions and specifically disclaims liability for contributors' claims or opinions. Readers are strongly advised to seek appropriate professional advice before acting on any medical, pharmaceutical, health related or financial information in this publication.

Advertising Advertisements are published in the form submitted by advertisers. The publisher does not check the veracity of claims made in advertisements and accepts no responsibility for their content.

Rita Merienne Aged Care with Ease

Privacy The Carer's Champion takes your privacy seriously and will not pass on your details to any third party.

Feedback We want to hear from you, your opinion matters. Emails can be sent to agedcarewithease@gmail.com

The Carer's Champion was established in 2021 to shine a light on the challenges of family members caring for their aged loved ones.

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Editor

Aged Care with Ease 0414 491 761 vwww.ritamerienne.com agedcarewithease@gmail.com PO Box 3338 Asquith NSW 2077

If you haven't signed up yet -just scan here

OCTOBER 2021

The Carer's Champion

Why I Do What I Do

A look at what it is like for the amazing staff working hard behind the aged care scene to provide products and services that will make caring easier for you and your loved ones.

This issue we have a chat with a couple of people who provide services in the aged care sector and I share why I do what I do!

In the Spotlight

The Directory A list of products and services mentioned in the magazine .

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Lifestyle

Cover: Susie Burrell Nutritionist/Dietitian wwww.susieburrell.com .au

Finding the right support for you and your loved ones.

Articles on topics like health, fitness, money, relationships, and more. Get the best out of your life with Lifestyle! .

Shining a light on products and services to make the caring journey easier

A Day in the Life

Supporting Charities The Carer's Champion supports several charities and here they are! .

Feature Story: A Daughter's Story Sharing what it's like to be part of your parent's caring journey.

In This Issue Feature Stories

Page

Keeping Our Aged Loved Ones Healthy and Fit for Life with Susie Burrell

Tips for Communicating with a Person Who Has Dementia by Rita Merienne

A Daughter's Story with Dr Gina Kingston

Traditional or Self-Managed - A New way to look at Home Care by Rita Merienne

Why I Do What I do See Me Aged Care Navigators with Coral Wilknson Taking the Worry Out of Care with Manisha Uprety Circle of Life with Michelle from Carers' Circle The Social Senior App with Jason

30 35 38 42

Carer's Chitter-Chatter

Page 8 Recipe Satay Tofu Vermicelli Salad

Page 14

A Day in the Life When is the Right Time for Estate Planning with Althea from Hornsby Wills and Probate

The Gift of Music - Connecting Through Music with Julie from The Seniors Channel

Connecting with a Heart - With Fiona from DCaF Connections

Giveaways

Page 29

In the Spotlight Something to Smile About - Senior Dental Care

Dressed for Success - Petal Back Clothing

Communicating with Service Providers - LiraCare

Top Hacks to Make Everything Easier - Kleva Range

Seven Arthritis Myths Busted - Arborvitoe Health and Wellbeing

LifeStyle Skin Support by Janita Lloyd

Journalling for Self Care by Sarah Jensen

Life Style by Dr Gina Kingston

Why Forgiveness is So Important by Alyson Williams

Healthy Eating on a Budget by Mary-Anne Bennett

Mindfully Me by Dee Brennan

Tips for Easy Nutritious Meals By Dr Vincent

Your Pet Pics

Page 76

Book Review: Husband Replacement Therapy by Kathy Lette

Page 90

World According to Rita Three Truths

Page 94 4 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

OCTOBER 2021

Editor's Note Welcome to the second issue of The Carer’s Champion. A space for you! October is when we acknowledge carers and

Photography by @traceymurrayphotography

the amazing job they do! I see you! I hear you! I am here for you! In this issue, I am thrilled that Susie Burrell Nutritionist/Dietician had a chat with me about how important Protein is for our aged loved ones and she shared her insights about creating nutritious healthy quick meals. Shining a light on different products and services, for you and for your loved ones, easing the caring journey is the key objective of The Carer’s Champion. This month I am sharing information about adaptive clothing, an information portal, aged care navigation, self-managed home care

Michelle from The Carers' Circle gave me something to think about - when we have kids there are playgroups to be part of, information from community nursing and support from family and friends however when we start caring for our aged loved ones we are on our own. Whom do we turn to? Let’s start the conversation! We have a couple of new columnists to introduce you to – Deanne Brennan, Dr Gina Kingston, Sarah Jenson and MaryAnne Bennet. Shinning a light on services and products for enhancing your life! . I am thrilled to bring another bumper issue to you. If you know of someone who would like a copy of The Carer’s Campion just get them to scan here to sign up.

packages, estate planning - the legal documentation you need to get sorted sooner rather than later plus so much more. Something for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you are caring for your aged loved one in your home, their home or a home it is tough and we are here to help ease the journey for you and for them. 5| THE CARER'S CHAMPION

You matter to me! Rita Cover shot:

Susie Burrell Nutritionist/Dietician as seen on Sunrise, 2GB shared the importance of protein for our aged loved ones.

Meet the Columnists Alyson Williams

Deanne Brennan

Trained Transformational coach, Relationship coach, Neuro-linguistic

Wellbeing and Mindfulness Coach, Mum, Runner and total Coffee snob. Her number

Programming (NLP) Master Coach, Extended DISC Behaviour Analysis practitioner and Hypnotherapist and Bling Angel

one priority in life is to take care of herself first.

Upcoming Events

The next Issue of The Carers

Janita Lloyd

Yvonne Heitz

Rodan + Fields consultant, a melanoma survivor and a Certified Bling Angel. She is passionate about empowering young adults to find the fire and love within themselves to achieve great things.

Words in Harmony book review provided by Word Harmony Proofreading and Editing Enterprise. Providing support for carers since 2014 with Aged Care with Ease.

Champion will be available on 1 November

International Day of Older

Sarah Jensen Heart Healer, and Journaling Guide. Award-Winning Life & Business Coach, creator & host of the multi-award nominated Rock Your Goals Podcast, and a cheerleader for big-hearted humans.

Rita Merienne

Persons 1 October

Editor, author, podcaster and the main person behind The Carer's Champion. Here to support you on your caring journey. You Mater to Me!

Carers week 9 to 16 October

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Meet the Columnists Dr Gina Kingston

Maryanne Bennett

Qualified Personal Stylist specialising in people with health issues. Gina’s mum

Leading Adelaide Nutritionist dedicated to helping women with chronic health issues,

had Multiple Systems Atrophy a Parkinson’s Plus disorder and Gina has scoliosis.

reset their health and vitality.

Upcoming Events

Christmas Gift

Dr Vincent Clinical nutritionist, food scientist, antioxidant researcher Founder of Renovatio.

Thank you to all the carers for all you do

Guide in the December Issue

Starting in December The Carer's Champion will be including ads for services and products. Contact me on agedcarewitheas e@gmail.com for all the details

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Carer's Chitter-Chatter! Photography by @traceymurrayphotography

Aged Care Reform

Something New

If you or a family member

The Carer's Champion is free to

use aged care services, or

readers and will always be - it is

you care for or work with

my promise to you.

older Australians, we want your input on a range of

To help with the costs of

projects being delivered as

producing The Carer's Champion

part of the aged care

we will be including ads for

reforms.

services and products.

The Ageing and Aged Care

If you would like to advertise your

Engagement Hub includes

service or product please Contact

current and upcoming

me on

opportunities to get

agedcarewithease@gmail.com for

involved, such as:

all the details

surveys discussion papers

PS.... there is a special introductory

webinars

offer for the December issue!

workshops.

Correction

You can also stay up to date

In the last issue the incorrect

with how these activities are

contact details were provided

helping shape the reforms

for Soka Australia.

on the ‘What we’ve heard’ blog.

These are the correct details: www.sokaaustralia.com.au

To visit the hub go to:

email:

www.agedcareengagement.

info@sokaaustralia.com.au

health.gov.au

IG: @sokaaustralia

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Do you have an anti Bucket List?

A list of things you won't do!

Everyone needs one

It's about setting your Boundaries

and sticking to them!

Keeping Our Aged Loved Ones Healthy and Fit for Life! Nutrition is a big part of caring for our aged loved ones. If they live with us – how do you nutritionally look after all the family? Is it better to have the main meal for the aged loved ones at the midday meal? Is it better to have 6 small meals for the aged? Treats for our aged. We can’t visit our aged loved ones at the moment and it is nice to send them a “treat” or two. These are just some of the questions I asked Susie Burrell, one of Australia’s leading dieticians, with two Honours Degrees in Nutrition and Dietetics and Psychology. Susie is especially known for her practical, easyto-understand approach to diet, nutrition and wellbeing. Finding the right balance for all the family when creating nutritious meals can be difficult and sometimes we just need a bit of advice about how to create a healthy eating plan for all the family that is easy.

Susie Burrell Speaking with Susie shone a light on a number of considerations that I am going to be honest with you I hadn’t considered before and I’m going to cover a few of the key issues. To start with we discussed some of the issues for healthy meal planning for our aged loved ones: Ease of eating – knowing your aged loved one and how difficult it is to eat certain foods Cost – unfortunately, cost does factor into the scenario Preparing meals – finding easy ways to prepare the meals, buying prepared meals, cooking in big batches and freezing in single serves Enticing food – food that means something to them and that can evoke happy memories

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Keeping Our Aged Loved Ones Healthy and Fit for Life! Protein Protein seems to be the new buzzword and it’s not hard to see why. There are so many benefits, especially for our aged loved ones. I didn’t know how important protein was for our aged loved ones. Protein helps with over health, muscle strength, balance, agility and resilience. You need protein to: Heal from injuries Keep your fluid levels in balance Recover from surgery or illness Maintain healthy vision Balance your hormones and digestive enzymes Ways of increasing protein in their diet include: Tuna Legumes Eggs Meat Peanut butter High protein milk Protein is one of the three main nutrients found in food. Different amino acids make protein and different foods have different mixes of these amino acids.

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Animal foods contain the full range of amino acids, which are easily used by the body while plant sources of protein including wheat and beans contain some but not all of the amino acids, and hence need to be eaten in mixed varieties for the body to get all the complete protein it needs. Keeping up the liquid We all know how good drinking water is for us however sometimes our aged loved ones just won’t drink water. A few tips to keep the water flowing: Herbal teas Flavouring water with fruit Water based foods – cucumber and water melon are great examples Have a glass of water sitting next to them in easy reach Offer water first before food A glass of milk – if it is a high protein milk all the better.

Keeping Our Aged Loved Ones Healthy and Fit for Life! Are they eating enough? Our aged loved ones often don’t eat enough. It may be due to lack of appetite or being less mobile or they just might not feel like getting up and making something. As we age there can be a disconnect with the “messaging” our body receives about being hungry. It can be because of illness or medication or that ageing has confused them by sending the message that they are full even though they haven’t eaten.

Finding the right balance especially when you don’t live with your aged loved one is difficult. Consider purchasing prepared meals – either from the supermarket or having them delivered. Last issue I shared details about My Dish (if you are in Sydney or on the Central Coast) this is a great option.

It is important to know what and how much your aged loved one is eating. It can also be that oral health issues need to be addressed – if your mouth hurts you don’t feel like eating.

However, there are also other products available – Meals on Wheels, Lite n Easy just to name a few.

There are a few ways you can entice your aged loved ones to eat.

The key is to keep it simple – easy to prepare and easy on the budget.

5 or 6 smaller meals may be more appealing Use a smaller plate for a smaller serving and make it look as nice as possible Quick and easy meals – prepare meals and label them clearly with instructions on how to prepare. Make it as easy as possible Meals that don’t need cooking – cheese on crackers, fruit, peanut butter on toast Meals that evoke happy memories. Make meals fun again and not just for sustenance Shared meals are best – it's the sense of belonging and being part of a community

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Malnutrition Malnutrition occurs when a person is not eating enough of the right foods and as a result, is not getting the nutrients that their body needs to function properly. Malnutrition is a major cause of ill health in aged loved ones, contributing to falls, confusion, infection, pressure injuries (bed sores), preventable hospital admissions, postoperative complications, rapid physical and cognitive decline.

Keeping Our Aged Loved Ones Healthy and Fit for Life! We don’t want to think that in this day and age anyone could be suffering malnutrition however many of our aged loved ones don’t eat enough or the right foods especially if they are living alone. After talking with Susie and reading the information she provided I decided to look deeper into what healthy eating means for our aged loved ones. The deeper I looked the more I began to realise it isn’t a size fits all situation. No surprise there – it seems everything when caring for our aged loved ones is individualised and each situation is special. However, there are commonalities and areas that we can all look at – the symptoms are the same but the way we handle it will be different. If our aged loved ones live with us or in an aged care home, it is easier to manage their eating however if they are living by themselves it can be a challenge to ensure they are eating healthy or even eating at all. Sometimes our aged loved ones “mask” issues and this is very common with their diet. They say they are not hungry but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t eat – remember their bodies may be sending the wrong signals. They may not know they aren’t eating enough.

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As with everything else we do on the caring journey – listen with your eyes. Look at what is really going on. Check on them at different times, see what’s in the fridge, eat a meal with them, deliver some food for them. There are lots of ways you can check out what is going on without “accusing” them of not taking care of themselves. There may be underlining reasons for poor eating habits: Are their dentures loose fitting – as they age their dentures need to be checked regularly Oral health is very important – regular checkups Do they know how to cook – is it too hard for them to cook a meal, can they remember what to do? Meals are different today then years ago and they might not know what to cook Can they afford to purchase the food they need?

Keeping Our Aged Loved Ones Healthy and Fit for Life! Remember no shame, no blame and no guilt. Everyone is doing the best they can! When we know better we do better. There are solutions available, work with your aged loved one and find a solution that they can easily manage. If you have concerns about your aged loved one's diet talk to their doctor and ask for a referral to a professional that will be able to assist you with individualised eating plans. It is really important to keep our aged loved ones healthy as possible and fit for life. Susie was a font of knowledge, especially for practical and easy-to-understand solutions. To find out more about Susie and her services please check out www.susieburrell.com.au

I asked Susie the usual final three questions: What is the best bit of advice ever received: “ In life everyone has their turn.” If in 5 years it won’t matter what do you wish you didn’t waste more than 5 minutes on: “Worrying about what the house looks like “. What are you passionate about: “ All Australians laying a strong foundation of good nutrition for their health so people don’t have to worry about their weight or ageing. To keep their bodies mobile and strong, fit for life”.

It was an absolute pleasure speaking with Susie. Check out her socials to find out more about her tips for good nutrition. If you’re looking for more nutritious recipes ideas and inspiration head to www.mayvers.com.au.

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Satay Tofu Vermicelli Salad By Mayver’s

| Serves: 2 Time: 45 minutes Dairy Free

Salad Ingredients Satay Sauce Method 1 block satay tofu 1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a small saucepan. 1/2 packet vermicelli rice noodles 2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook on low 1 large carrot, julienned heat until soft, ensuring no browning is occurring. 1/2 cup granulated peanuts 3. Add Mayver’s Crunchy Peanut Butter, honey and 1 cup mixed lettuce leaves water and mix until combined. 1/4 head cauliflower 4. Turn heat down to low and add in the soy sauce and 1/4 head broccoli lime juice, and mix until combined, removing from 1/2 cup mushrooms heat quickly after. Mayver’s Satay Sauce to serve

Salad Method Coriander to garnish 1. Cut the satay tofu into 2cm cubes. 2. Add olive or coconut oil to flat bottomed frying pan and heat over medium heat. Mayver’s Satay Sauce 3. When the oil is hot, add the tofu to the pan ensuring 1/4 cup finely chopped onion each piece is separated. 1 small garlic clove, finely chopped 4. Cook the tofu for 8-10 minutes, flipping it twice to 1/2 cup Mayver’s Dark Roasted ensure both sides have been browned. Crunchy Peanut Butter 5. Remove the tofu from heat once cooked and set aside. 1/4 cup water 6. Soak the vermicelli noodles in a large bowl of boiling 1 tsp hot chilli sauce water for approximately three minutes or until soft 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari or (ensure noodles are fully submerged). gluten free 7. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water. Set aside. 1 tsp honey 8. Dice the mushrooms and separate the broccoli and 2 tbsp lime juice cauliflower into small pieces. 9. Heat a medium frying pan with 2 tbsp of oil of choice. 10. Add the mushrooms, broccoli and cauliflower to a Vinegar Dressing heated pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring to ensure 1/4 cup lime juice vegetables do not over brown. 2 tbsp maple syrup 11. Julienne the fresh carrot. 1 tsp minced garlic 12. To assemble the satay vermicelli bowl, place the noodles 1/4 cup fish sauce at the bottom of the dish. Add in the tofu, mixed leaves, 2 tbsp + 1 tsp rice vinegar carrot & cooked vegetables. 13. Pour the vinegar dressing over the salad. 14. Top with Mayver’s satay sauce and garnish with coriander to serve

Thanks to Mayvers for the recipe

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Tips for Communicating with a Person who has Dementia The early stages of Dementia can be confusing for everyone – you and your loved one. Frustrating for you because they can’t remember things and frustrating for them because they can’t remember things. As the dementia progresses we all become accustomed to dealing with each stage differently. One of the resources from Dementia Australia provides tips for communicating with a person who has dementia and the following is some of the information I found very useful. People retain their feelings and emotions even though they may not understand what is being said, so it is important to always maintain their dignity and self-esteem. Be flexible and always allow plenty of time for a response. Where appropriate, use touch to keep the person’s attention and to communicate feelings of warmth and affection. Ways of talking • Remain calm and talk in a gentle, matter of fact way • Keep sentences short and simple, focusing on one idea at a time • Always allow plenty of time for what you have said to be understood • It can be helpful to use orienting names whenever you can, such as “Your son Jack" 15 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Body language You may need to use hand gestures and facial expressions to make yourself understood. Pointing or demonstrating can help. Touching and holding their hand may help keep their attention and show that you care. A warm smile and shared laughter can often communicate more than words can.

The right environment • Try to avoid competing noises such as TV or radio • If you stay still while talking you will be easier to follow, especially if you stay in the person’s line of vision • Maintain regular routines to help minimise confusion and assist communication • It is much less confusing if everyone uses the same approach. Repeating the message in exactly the same way is important for all the family and all carers

Sometimes it is about what NOT to do when dealing with our loved ones who have dementia! What NOT to do • Don’t argue. It will only make the situation worse • Don’t order the person around • Don’t tell them what they can’t do. Instead suggest what the person can do • Don’t be condescending. A condescending tone of voice can be picked up, even if the words are not understood • Don’t ask a lot of direct questions that rely on a good memory • Don’t talk about people in front of them as if they are not there

Adapted from Understanding difficult behaviours, by Anne Robinson, Beth Spencer and Laurie White 1989. Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan

Helping our aged loved ones to find the missing pieces

How can adaptive clothing help you and your aged loved one? Check out the article "In the Spotlight" about Petal Back Clothing!

Do you want to use this space for advertising your Service or Product contact Rita at

agedcarewithease@gmail .com Our book Tough...ToughTimes...Tough Decisions

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A Daughter's Story Editors note: Trigger warning – this article is an emotional recounting of a 15 year caring journey of a family dealing with Multiple System Atrophy a Parkinson’s Plus Disorder

Caring looks different for all of us and I am honoured that Gina has trusted me enough to allow me to share her story.

This wasn’t in the plan.

Gina is a Qualified Personal Stylist specialising in people with health issues.

Gina lived interstate and her sister was overseas, their parents often traveled visiting them and this continued for a number of years until it became too hard.

Gina’s mum had Multiple System Atrophy a Parkinson’s Plus disorder and Gina has scoliosis. Gina’s family was no different than any other – Parents and kids – loving, living, growing, travelling, working, laughing, kids moving out to start their own families, parents working towards retirement – everything a family does.

This wasn’t part of the perfect family dream.

One of the preferred trips was going on a cruise – it was relaxing to be traveling to new places but not have to pack and unpack. Still doing things together, still embracing new and exciting challenges.

Dare I say it - the family dream. Then Gina’s mum, Gwen, had Cancer. After the treatment was finished and she was given the all clear, something still didn’t feel right. Something wasn’t right, not sure what it was, she couldn’t put her finger on it but it just wasn’t right. Gwen had a couple of falls, Gina’s Dad, Tony, retired and after a couple more falls Gwen was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. A few more years and a few more symptoms and Gwen’s diagnosis was changed to Multiple Systems Atrophy – a Parkinson’s plus disorder.

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There are three main messages that Gina wants to share about her family’s caring journey. Still do things together – do it now. Don’t wait until later to get out and enjoy your time together. Look after yourself – carers need to care for themselves too. It’s the greatest gift you can give your loved one. The loved one and the carer both need a space to discuss issues – a separate space. Caring for a loved one isn’t just a one person job – just as it takes a village to raise a child it takes a community to care for a loved one.

A Daughter's Story Giving her mother the dignity and the respect she deserves Unfortunately we often think we are the only one that can do it – do it all. It’s understandable – you are their protector, their champion, their carer. You want to do it all, you need to do it all! A loving husband caring for his adoring wife after all she gave up her job to care for and raise the family and now he was going to care for her – no matter what! As a daughter living interstate, Gina was very aware of checking on her father to see how he was coping. But it was so much more than that. It was providing a space for her mother too. Understanding the symptoms of the disease, knowing what to look for and all the time treating her mother with dignity. Gina’s mother’s body may have been failing her however her mind was as sharp as ever and she felt it deeply when she was spoken about not to.

One of the issues the family encountered was that others would see the wheelchair and not the person in the wheelchair. Instead of asking her mother how she was friends would ask her father how she was doing. The question was always heard even if the answer had to be interpreted. One of the symptoms was that Gwen could talk on the residual breath after she breathed out – which meant that her voice was often mumbled and soft. Gina always made a point of when she was asked “how her mother is” she would look at her mother and say “Mum how are you” and then interpret the response (if needed) “Mum says she is …...”. What a wonderful way to give her mother the dignity and respect she deserved. As we spoke more about the different situations that all the family experienced I glimpsed a different side to the caring journey and something that needs to be shared. Support carers are needed and they have a huge part to play in the caring journey. The main carer needs their support.

Gwen 18 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

A Daughter's Story Carers need a break before they break! It’s not just the physical side of caring. It’s about providing the emotional support, the brainstorming to find a solution to a challenge, investigating different services that are available and importantly reminding them to care for themselves. Knowing what support services are available is important – initially Tony didn’t have any support and when he did get the home care package he realised how much it helped to provide support for both of them. Tony rarely put Gwen into respite. The first time he did it wasn’t a good experience – being a high-needs patient the home put her in with Dementia patients and the staff didn’t know how to care for her, even though they were advised Gwen still had very high cognitive skills. They didn’t even tell her their names as they were used to Dementia patients not interacting. . A big lesson to learn here was to check the services provided and do they know how to care for your loved one’s condition

Share as much as you can about their condition so their care can be what is needed. Get it documented in writing to confirm you are all on the same page. As the years went by Gina’s mother’s physical condition deteriorated, traveling stopped and her father rarely had a break. Yes he did have times where carers from a home care provider came in and helped however he didn’t have any extended time away. Gina arranged for a four-day walking tour to give her father a break and time with family. A different respite home was found which supported her mother’s condition. Looking back at this time fondly, but for different reasons – Gina shared why: Gina - Giving her father a break and some family time without the caring responsibilities although her father did talk about her mother often that Gina was concerned he wasn’t really having a break. Tony – having time when he doesn’t have to worry about his loved one. Yes, he did speak of her often but he didn’t worry about her.

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A Daughter's Story Even the understudy needs a go sometimes! Each situation is different and each of us look at things differently and that is why open, honest and respectful communication is important. Making sure the main carer is looking after themselves is important. But please understand how tough it is for the main carer to take a step back and let someone else care for their loved one. Just like the star of the movie when the understudy has to step in – it is tough and challenging for both. Letting someone else do your job or stepping up and doing something you have only heard about, even trained for but you haven’t had practice in doing. Plus we all do things differently it doesn’t mean it is better or worse. One of the issues for Gina was that she wasn’t physically able to care for her mother in the same way her father did – lifting her out of bed, moving her around and dealing with the symptoms of her condition. Having professionals show you the best way to provide the required care is another factor – get an occupational therapist or professional carer to show you how they manage different issues.

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Getting the Right supports in place - Gina Helps clients find the right adaptive clothing

Another issue was that Gina visited often but she did live interstate and whilst she knew what care was needed she didn’t do it every day and each time she visited her mother’s condition changed. Of course, she was hesitant or not as fast as her father in providing the care. It is important for main carers to understand that support carers want to help and to cut them some slack – they are trying their best. Main carers need to ask for help. This isn’t always easy. Especially when you have your own medical conditions to deal with.

A Daughter's Story No Shame, No Blame, No Judgement - Just Understanding! Tony had an early diagnosis of prostate cancer and suggested treatment was non-surgical but it was eight weeks of treatment. When Gina talked about the plans for care during this time her father’s reaction was expected “I’ll be ok, most people just feel a bit tired. I will manage.” Gina insisted that she would come and help. And it was just as well she did. Sometimes being a carer isn’t just about caring it is about being their champion! Gwen broke her arm but due to her health conditions the medical team decided not to operate to reset it, they feared the surgery would make her condition worse. The break didn’t knit properly and her arm was permanently damaged which caused more difficulties and pain. When she had a future break and the medical team said they wouldn’t operate Tony was adamant that it be properly fixed by surgery. A second opinion was required, Tony kept pushing and pushing until she got the right treatment.

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Carers know their loved ones and sometimes they need to be heard. Another important point that Gina raised with me was how important that both her parents need a safe space to discuss how they were feeling and issues that couldn’t be discussed with each other. I think this is really important for any carer and their loved one. There is no blame, no shame and no judgement, however it is important to have a space to share frustrations. I see it all the time the cared for is frustrated and they want to talk about it but they don’t want their carer to think they are complaining – they just want to vent or have their opinion heard but they keep quiet because they know their carer is doing so much for them. However I think it is more than that. We all do things differently – what is important to one person isn’t to another. This is no different when caring for a loved one.

A Daughter's Story It Isn't Easy Being Cared For!! Gina shared how this was also the case with her parents. Her mother was very appreciative of everything her father did for her however there were some things that she wished were done differently and it was good for her to be able to talk with Gina about it. A simple case of picking out clothes without talking about the day’s plans meant that Gwen felt uncomfortable when they went out for lunch. No, it wasn’t a huge deal but it was important to her mum. It took a lot of effort to get dressed and if her mum had known she was going out she would have chosen different clothes for the day. When Gina explained the situation to her father he understood and that is just one example why it is important to have a safe space/person to talk about issues. Gwen didn’t want to “complain” to her husband – he does so much for her, however, she wanted her opinion heard. It is also easier to hear from a third party than the person you are caring for too.

22| THE CARER'S CHAMPION

There are a lot of emotions on the caring journey and it can feel as if the person you are caring for is complaining when all they want is their opinion heard. A very good lesson for all of us. It isn’t always easy to be cared for. Loosing independence and the ability to care for yourself but also now your kids caring for you. Guilt, grief, embarrassment and every other emotion you can think of. Gina recalled the first time she had to take her mother to the toilet and she wasn’t quick enough. Her mum was upset – she is supposed to be caring for her child not the other way around. Gina was feeling emotional because she wasn’t a skilled carer and she took longer to get her mother to the toilet. An emotional time for everyone.

A Daughter's Story Connection is Everything!! Speaking of emotions it is very important to know your loved one’s conditions and what to expect.

Gwen had written her Memoir prior to her illness but what Gina didn’t realise was that she had been updating it.

For Gwen emotions played a huge part in her symptoms worsening. Each day was dictated by how she was feeling.

TheiPpad gave her the ability to keep updating her Memoir. She even planned her memorial service on her iPad.

When she was happy her stress was less and her symptoms were less. It was important to have less stress in her life – making sure she had the services around her that made her life easier.

Earlier this year Gina visited Tony and Gwen after Tony had a fall and hurt his Knee. They played scrabble on one of the days with Gwen getting all the triple word scores.

Having the right supports whether it be technical, physical and emotional.

During the same trip Gwen stopped breathing and she was taken to hospital.

One of the things that the family did was get an iPad for her mother. It gave her some independence and she often Face-timed with family.

The next day she was back to her usual self and didn’t understand what all the fuss was about. She wanted to get dressed and go out to lunch.

One of the things Gina learnt was that you didn’t have to be talking all the time. Just being together meant a lot even if it was via Face-time.

After 15 years of dealing with this depilating condition this year, Gwen succumbed to the disease and she passed.

One of Gina’s children would often facetime her mother and sit and do their homework. No talking just being together.

Without going into all the medical details, it was a difficult time as Gwen's swallow response had gone and she couldn’t have any intravenous medications.

Connection is everything. .

23 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

She was unable to receive any sustenance other than small sips of water. She was placed under palliative care.

A Daughter's Story Even Support Carers Need Support Too! Gina was there to support her father during the difficult time of her mother’s passing. While pulling the service together was made easier by the fact that Gwen had also planned her memorial service, they had to take into account making arrangements to include her sister from overseas (during Covid restrictions). Gina spoke a lot about the support and care for her father during this time and throughout the caring journey, I wanted to know how she was supported and cared for. It is important to remember that even support carers need some support too. One of the things Gina shared with me was how important it was that friends kept in contact and checked in on her especially people who understand what it was like. People with lived experience. A couple of friends that had recently lost a parent checked in regularly with her. .

I wanted to know how Tony was doing? He is lonely and life is very different for him now. He is staying connected with family and friends (which is really important). He is continuing to connect with the Parkinson’s support group and share his experiences. He is aware of this article and he wanted me to mention how it is important to get enduring guardianship documents sorted early before physical conditions worsen and your loved one is assessed as being incapacitated and not able to choose whom they want to be their guardian. I’d also like to add it is really important to have wills and power of attorney documents in place too. As well as an Advanced Care Directive. I want to thank Gina for sharing this beautiful caring journey and for highlighting some of the challenges of caring. I have been privileged to share this journey with you, it is by courageous carers sharing their journey that we all learn. When we know better we do better so everyone can be better.

24 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

A Daughter's Story Learning From Lived Experience! Key points to remember: Carers need to care for themselves too. Main carers need support carers – it takes a community to care for a loved one.

If this article has raised any issues for you please reach out and ask for help! I am really pleased to let you know that next month Tony will be sharing his story with us.

Keep doing things together. Regularly update care plans – at least yearly or when condition changes. Find the right respite. Ask questions and get the right care. Acknowledge the person not the wheelchair – people often disregard the person in the wheelchair and talk about them not to them. Think outside the square – technical and supports.

If you would like to share your story with us please contact me at agedcarewithease@gmail.com Sharing our lived experiences to help others on the caring journey.

Accept help. Connecting with people with lived experience. Breathe – it will be ok. Ask for help – you are not alone. Be open in discussions about what the future will inevitably bring. Support carers need support too.

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g n i r ca s i g n i r Sha

Traditional Or Self-Managed What home care package is best for you and your aged loved one?

I didn’t even know there was a choice. I thought the only choices you had were a home care package or an aged care home. It’s another case of “you don’t know what you don’t know”. After talking with Coral from See Me Aged Care Navigators where she told me how she used traditional home care providers for her father and self-managed for her mother, I decided to have a look at the differences.

Traditional Home Care providers are when you go to one organisation and they write the care plan and provide the services in line with the level of funding your aged loved one is assessed for. Self-Managed Care providers are when you manage the care services for your aged loved ones through a management company that looks after the funding of the services in line with the level of funding your aged loved one is assessed for. You organise the service and payment and then you are reimbursed for the services.

I had never heard of self-managed home care packages before and this article is just a quick overview. To find out more have a chat with See me Aged Care Navigators. Consumers need to be empowered with knowledge – when we know better we do better! I have been doing a bit of research and here is what I found. A perfect space to advertise your product or service contact Rita at

agedcarewithease@gmail.com

26 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Traditional Or Self-Managed COTA Australia is the peak policy development, advocacy and representation organisation for older Australians, and provides the following explanation for Self-management:

Now that home care is a consumer directive care model a care plan is essential and is used to detail how care funds will be spent and is an integral part of both options.

Self-management gives consumers and carers: More control of how their funding is spent, Shared authority to decide on purchases, A way of directly paying for services, products and activities relevant to their care, A way to choose support workers and other contractors.

Funding is allocated to the consumer not to the actual service provider – traditional or self-managed.

Ok, that is very basic! There is more to it and it isn’t as simple as it seems. It takes a lot of work and you need to engage a management company that will hold the funding for your aged loved one's package. On the surface, both options have pros and cons, it's about finding what is right for you and your aged loved one. There is no one size fits all and importantly what works for you may not work for others. Before rushing in and changing a process that is working talk to your aged love one and ask them what they want. It might just be a case of tweaking a few things and the current way of doing things will work better for all of you.

27 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Fees are reduced for the Self-managed option however you have to do more work in organising the services detailed in the care plan. In most cases you pay for the services and submit receipts for reimbursement. Clinical support is critical for ¾ of home care packages, knowing what your aged loved one needs is important and often consumers don’t know what to ask for.

Traditional Or Self-Managed In a time where we are time poor self-managing a home care package may not be for you, it could cause more stress. Instead of spending time with our aged loved one you would be “organising their care”. Whichever way you decide to go you need to look at all the pros and cons. It has to work for you and your aged loved one and not just be what’s popular. I see a lot of benefits for both options however personally it seems a lot of hard work to selfmanage a home care package. What is best? Freedom to choose the care and services you want, in line with your unique care needs or an organisation that will provide all the care services for you? COTA provides a good resource to help you make the decision that is right for you. https://www.cota.org.au/information/selfmanagement-in-home-care/self-managementresources-and-tools/

As with anything you need to make sure it is right for you and your aged loved one and you need to look at what the option you choose is costing you. It isn’t always about the dollars and cents, it is about what makes sense for you. My advice is do some research, talk to people who have used both traditional and self-managed home care packages and then match what you need with what will provide the best service for you and your aged loved ones. What is right for others may not be right for you. Each situation is unique and requires an individual solution. Coral Wilkinson from See You Aged Care Navigators and I had a chat about this recently as she has personal experience with both Traditional and Self-managed home care packages. If you want to know more about both options get in contact with Coral at https://www.seemeacn.com.au

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All winners have been notified by email 2GB/4BC Sign up Draw Copy of Tough...Tough Times ...Tough Decision and Care Cards is GM for WA

The Carers Champion Sign up Draw Copy of Tough...Tough Times ...Tough Decision

is Ms S

Sarah Jensen Journaling Prompts program One lucky reader will win a free journaling prompt program from Sarah Jensen Just send an email to agedcarewithease@gmail.com with "Sarah's Journaling Giveaway" in the subject to go into the draw. Winner will be contacted by email.

Mary-Anne Bennett from Adelaide Nutrition and Wellbeing is offering a free 30-minute consult and a free copy of her ebook Quick Easy Recipes

Just click on the links in the covering email or send an email to

maryanne@adelaidenutritionandwellbeing.com.au

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WHY I DO WHAT I DO! Introducing the people behind the products and services

SEE ME AGED CARE NAVIGATORS CORAL WILKINSON

You are probably sick of me saying this by now but it’s true – I meet some really amazing people in the aged care sector. None more so than Coral from See Me Aged Care Navigators. I’ve spoken with Coral several times and have been following her for ages on social media. It was great to sit down and talk to Coral about ‘Why She Does What She Does” and gain her insights into the Aged Care Sector.

30 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Experience matters! Coral has extensive experience in the Aged Care sector as a registered nurse with over 30 years working in the Queensland Health system. In the past 15 years, Coral is grateful for working as an Assessor for aged care and be involved with the nurse navigator rollout.

As we dove further into this Coral provided the following example, the establishment of the new workforce that will be care finders. Care Finders are such a specialised aspect of the system. How is a workforce created that requires such specialised knowledge?

During this time Coral was also caring for her father at home under a traditional home care provider package. Now she is caring for her mother under a self-managed home care provider package. In addition, she assists clients to find the right care for them by assessing what they need.

How does this new workforce enable older people to make informed choices? How does this new workforce retain independence?

It is Coral’s lived experience that makes her knowledge during the emotional and difficult times of finding the right care for an aged loved one so insightful.

Coral is concerned about the loss of clinical expertise that the ACATs bring to the assessment process.

There is so much Coral wants to see for the aged care sector and she is encouraged about the number of recommendations to come from the final report into the Commission, but she fears these recommendations will be implemented without a solid foundation underpinning the change.

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Merging of the RAS and ACAT

The concern is that for older people and what they will miss out because a nonclinician isn’t trained to detect the subtle signs of cognitive impairment vs mood disorder or understand what to do about incontinence or support carer stress. There is also the fact that at times our aged loved ones actually mask how they cope and often hide how much care they actually need. It takes trained eye to actually see what is going on.

Empowerment of Older People! What Coral really wants to see is empowerment of older people and their carers with knowledge and know how, so they can make informed choices and be confident to ask for the support that is appropriate to their individual needs. It sounds very simple doesn’t. Oh how I wish it was. It is because of people like Coral who make it easier for our aged loved ones and their carers. See Me Aged Care Navigators is aimed at the adult children of older people. Those who are raising their own families, consumed in their careers, trying to make all ends meet and being overwhelmed at not being able to support their ageing parents. It’s people just like you and me, family members and caring sons and daughters who want to do the right thing by their aged loved ones, but don’t know where or how to start in the aged care system. Understanding what services are available is only one part, it is knowing what care your aged loved one needs.

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Presently See Me Aged Care Navigators have an office in north Queensland and an office in Perth, but their model is assessing older people via video consultation, so they actually have clients all over Australia, in metropolitan areas and regional and rural Australia. Wherever there is an internet connection, they can see people. The reason they operate via video consultation is because the aged care program is a Commonwealth program, so the information that is given and the assessment process is the same anywhere in Australia. The approvals for services and support are also the same across the country, so are options for discharge from hospital, programs of restorative care and choosing a provider for a home care package are the same no matter where someone lives. They have far greater reach operating via video conference than setting up bricks and mortar offices all over Australia. This model also allows for greater responsiveness and flexibility in seeing people at a time that suits them, including after hours or weekends.

See Me Aged Care Navigators provides 3 main options: Aged care navigation, Care finding, and, Care plan reviews. Each of the services is underpinned by a comprehensive assessment, which informs the My Aged Care referral and guides the ACAT in their decision making for approvals, it also informs people trying to decide on a traditional provider or self-management for their home care package and it validates the requests that people may have when asking their home care package provider for expenditure within their home care package funding. The assessment and summary also informs the older person’s GP and other health practitioners and serves to inform all family members of their loved one’s functional, psychosocial and cognitive presentation. There is a lot of information here about what services Coral and her team provide, however, I think it is important for us to know what happens when you engage the right aged care navigation service.

33 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Care Plan reviews are personalised and detailed care planning demonstrating the individual needs of an older person. Home care package providers may not always have the time or the experience to achieve detailed care planning nor may they have the input of a registered nurse to maximise a wholistic and clinical perspective, so care plans may actually impede a person getting what they need from their package funding. Some of the areas that confuse clients most are My Aged Care and home care package provision. That’s where Coral and her team can assist you to get the right care for your aged loved ones. Helping to clarify information and providing advice to navigate the aged care system. Supporting you to support your aged loved ones.

It's the same but different! No two situations are the same, it’s not a one size fits all service. Finding the right care is a personal and individual activity that needs experienced, caring and knowledgeable people to guide you to the best outcome for you and your aged loved one. Having the right support at the right time to make it right for all. Coral is an advocate for finding the right model for you and your family. Consumers need to be empowered with knowledge and they often don’t know what services to ask for under home care packages. See Me Aged Care Navigation can be contacted via our email addresses coral@seemeacn.com.au and michelle@seemeacn.com.au or our phone numbers Coral 0468 448 779 and Michelle 0432 995 776

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Self-compassion is being kind to yourself

MANISHA UPRETY UPRETY HOME CARE

Taking the Worry Out of Care!

Some of the services that Manisha and her

Knowing your aged loved one needs care

staff provide are:

and finding the right type of care are two of the most important aspects of caring.

Community Nursing

There are many different services available

Dressing/showering

and today I want to introduce Manisha

Wound care

from Uprety Home Care to you.

Catheter care

Manisha is a registered nurse who is

Palliative care

passionate about making a positive

Dementia care

difference in people’s lives and helping

Transport/Companionship

them to stay living in their own homes. It is the main reason she started Uprety Home

I wanted to know what a normal day looked

Care.

like for Manisha and here is a snapshot:

After talking with Manisha it was obvious that she is a very caring person who wants

Early morning start to get the “paperwork”

the best outcome for her patients and it

sorted. Especially now during the current

was a natural progression from working in

restrictions.

aged care homes to start her own business where she can help clients stay in their own

Driving to the first client that is in an LGA

homes. Something that she is very

of concern – the new terminology in

passionate about.

Sydney that refers to suburbs where restrictions are in place. This means that extra time needs to be allocated for each visit and you need the correct paperwork too.

35 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

Taking the worry out of care! It isn’t just the extra time for putting on the

Recently she assisted a family with

additional PPE required but you have to

palliative care for a loved one.

factor in that you will more than likely be stopped by the Police to show your permit

Due to the lockdown restrictions, all family

that allows you to travel into the LGA and

members couldn’t be with their loved one

prove you have been fully vaccinated.

in the hospital so they bought them home

Some of the clients have dementia and

for their final hours. However, the family

extra time is required to explain the

were so overcome with grief that providing

additional PPE and in some cases help the

palliative care was beyond them even if

clients to recognise the person behind the

they knew what to do.

mask! This may seem like a small thing however to some clients it is very

Manisha took care of all medical issues and

disturbing and they are quite upset by a

specialised palliative care which allowed

heavily masked person wanting to come

the family to deal with saying goodbye.

into their home.

Effortlessly working in the background

All this extra time and extra care to make

ensuring the patient passed with dignity,

sure her clients have all the care they need

pain-free and surrounded by their loving

to feel extra safe and well cared for. Taking

family.

the worry out of care! The current pandemic and lockdown

Making a difference in people’s lives and

restrictions have definitely added

ensuring they are getting the care they

challenges to the normal daily tasks and has

need and deserve, Manisha takes the worry

also created more opportunities for

out of care.

Manisha to help clients.

When we help one rise we all rise!

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Taking the worry out of care!

Whether it is short-term or long-time care

Final Three Thoughts

Manisha works with clients and carers to

The best bit of advice that Manisha has

ensure their needs and choices are met.

received – if you are following your passion

Working with the care plan to enhance the

you will go a long way.

quality of life for clients. Often Manisha provides specialised short-

If in 5 years it won’t matter what do you

term care for wound management or

wish you didn’t spend more than 5 minutes

treatments to help keep aged loved ones

on – you can’t change people’s values.

living in their own home as long as possible.

Don’t worry about their values, just yours.

Giving carers added support when they need it the most.

Manisha’s passions are providing care for

I asked Manisha if she had any tips for

people, hiking, and running.

carers: Care for yourself – many carers make

Manisha can be contacted via

their loved ones a priority and they

info@upretyhomecare.com.au or check out

forget to care for themselves.

www.upretyhomecare.com.au

Ask for help – you don’t have to do it all by yourself. Getting outside help doesn’t mean you don’t care. Manisha is available in the Sydney, Central Coast and Huter regions to provide home care for your loved ones.

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Circle of life Carers' Circle You know what it’s like – you talk with

When you have a baby there are play

someone and you just click. You finish each

groups, community nurses and other

other’s sentences and you feel an instant

support groups but when you take on the

connection like you have been friends for

role of caring for your aged loved ones who

ever and ever.

is there to support you?

That is exactly how I felt when I spoke with

It is just as confusing, confronting and

Michelle from Carers’ Circle.

challenging as starting a new family but throw in the emotional, physical and

I’ve connected online a few times with

financial challenges, it can become

Michelle, attended one of the information

overwhelming.

sessions she organised and followed her on the socials.

When my son was born I had my mother to turn to for advice and support but when I

Every single time I have interacted with

became Dad’s carer I had no one. But it was

Michelle I come away from the encounter

more than that I felt I had to do it alone –

better off, more knowledgeable and more

that it was my responsibility.

at ease. As I mentioned Michelle has the lived Michelle is another one of those with lived

experience of being on the caring journey

experience. She knows what it is like to be

and wants to make the caring journey

on the caring journey while raising a family

easier for others. Being the change she

and working.

wants to see in the world.

But it is so much more than that, she totally understands the need for a support network for family members caring for their aged loved ones. 38| THE CARERS CHAMPION

Circle of life Carers' Circle

Carers' Circle is a website that provides a

Michelle pointed out that admitting you

space for family members caring for their

need help isn’t a sign of failure for

aged loved ones to access information

ourselves or our parents. How many times

about different aspects of the Ageing

have you heard our aged loved ones say

Sector.

“I’m ok, there is nothing wrong” when you know that they aren’t ok and they are

The information is for anyone caring for an

“masking” their situation.

aged loved one. Sharing personal stories, and how we deal The information provided on Carers' Circle

with caring challenges and knowing where

is from experts in the field and those with

to get support, helps ease the stress of

lived experience – people who have been

caring.

where you are now! Facing the emotional, financial and physical challenges of caring

There is no shame, blame or guilt, just

for an aged loved one can be very lonely

understanding of a difficult situation from

and having a connection with others who

experts and people with lived experience. A

are on the same journey is not just nice - it

Circle of Carers!

is a necessity. The website also provides information to help you care for your ageing parents in plain English. Michelle says there’s so much information out there, sometimes it’s hard

It doesn't matter

to know what’s what, and where to find it.

if you care for your aged loved one in

What she’s trying to do with Carers’ Circle

your home, their

is make it easier to find and understand. It

home or

should be like having a conversation with a

a home

friend. 39 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

- it is tough!

Circle of life Carers' Circle

Just as it takes a community to raise a child

Michelle wants to normalise the ageing

it also takes a community to support you as

process and everything that goes with it.

you care for your aged loved ones. We

Finding the right services and products to

often are overwhelmed that we don’t know

make the care for our aged loved ones

where to turn to for support and advice.

easier for everyone and ensuring their wishes are being respected and they are

Some of Michelle’s tips are:

receiving the care they need.

Have a good relationship with your

Michelle is a daughter on the caring journey

aged loved ones’ doctors

– caring for her father before he passed

Know who their friends are – just the

and now caring for her mother, she decided

same as with your children, know who

she wanted to provide information to help

they usually talk with so when things

others on the caring journey.

change you will know. Be part of their lives – know what’s

She is also an advocate for the ageing

going on.

sector by being part of Aged Care Reform

Advanced Care Directives are very

Now - a group of older people, families and

important. During a stressful time

people who work in the aged care sector,

having a guiding principle of what your

who want to see the Royal Commission into

aged loved one wants will reduce the

Aged Care recommendations implemented.

stress. Boundaries are important – yours and

They are working to increase transparency,

theirs.

accountability and quality in the system and

Ageing is a part of life – don't make it

are helping ensure that every older

harder than it has to be.

Australian has access to the quality care

Kindness and consideration and most

they deserve, need and want.

importantly respect.

40 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

Circle of life Carers' Circle

There has been a lot of negative media and

Being part of a support network helps you

comments about the aged care sector

to identify the things to look for when

however we all know that it’s not all

looking for services for your aged loved

operators and providers that act this way.

ones.

There are many service providers that treat

Carers' Circle is ready and waiting for you

their patients/residents/clients with

at https://carerscircle.com.au/ plus you

respect and are excellent.

can find them on all the usual social media.

The system however has been set up that

The Final Three thoughts:

there are no real consequences for poor

Best advice received was from her father –

care, so Aged Care Reform Now is looking

think before you speak and let others speak

to change that.

too! One of the things Michelle wishes she

Aged Care Reform Now can be accessed at

didn’t spend so much time “stressing” over

https://agedcarereformnow.com.au/ .

was spending so much time on creating the

There is a public Facebook page -

perfect social media posts for Carers'

https://www.facebook.com/agedcarerefor

Circle. Perfectionism and procrastination

mnow and a private group if you’d like to

can be easily confused! She knows she

join them -

needs to speak from the heart and sharr the

www.facebook.com/groups/agedcarerefor

information.

mnow2.0/ Michelle is passionate about people – But back to Carers’ Circle. We don’t what

helping them, caring for them and helping

we don’t know – by sharing our lived

to make their lives easier.

experiences we share solutions to challenges and help others to do better.

41 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

THE SOCIAL SENIOR APP

Connection Made Easy For

Jason’s Ah Ha moment was when he was

You!

speaking with his Grandma. Her

Connection is the new buzzword! We are told how important it is to keep connected. However, for the technically challenged amongst us, it can be really difficult. That’s where Social Seniors App comes to the rescue. I spoke with Jason who developed this program and was pleasantly surprised to find out how it works and why he developed the program. As they say, there is usually a personal reason for any new idea or invention and this is no different.

42 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

grandchildren are all around the world and she was saying she wishes she could speak to them more often. Jason pointed out that she could ring them anytime however she said that she found it hard to use the phone. Jason couldn’t stop thinking about this and realised that many seniors didn’t use their smart phone because they found it hard to use. After 40 interviews and testing with 100 seniors Jason developed a program to help seniors keep connected with the service providers and other often used numbers. Currently it is only local for Northern Sydney Suburbs however plans are in place to take it wider.

THE SOCIAL SENIOR APP

So what is the Social Seniors App? It’s a free mobile app for smartphones that gives nontech savvy people access to general information and easy calling or emailing. You don’t provide any personal information. You don’t need to use a login. You decide what businesses or organisations you want included and Jason will set it up for you. Keeping it simple and easy to use so seniors can keep connected with the services they regularly use Jason was able to solve the following pain points: Visibility – font sizes that can be read easily Intuitive – easy to understand Relevance – what you need when you need it

80% of the questions you have will be able to be found by using the app and then you call for the other 20%. This free app will help to keep our seniors connected and empowering them to find out information themselves without relying on others to keep them informed. Now that we are all getting smartphones to help us register in with a QR code this seems such a useful app for our seniors so they can get more use and benefits from their phones. Helping to keep them connected and informed with a simple and easy-to-use app. Current partners Ku-ring-gai Council Ryde Council Presbytyrian Aged Care Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport Meals on Wheels

43 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

THE SOCIAL SENIOR APP

More organisations will be added as requested by users I asked Jason what made him smile and his response was making others happy. I truly believe this app will help to make many people happy. If you want to find out more about the Social Seniors App please contact Jason at Socialseniorsapp@gmail.com

Final ThreeThoughts: The best bit of advice received: Spend over 50% of a conversation listening. If in 5 years it won’t matter what do you wish you hadn’t spent more than 5 minutes on: Not trusting myself more – worrying if I had got it right instead of just getting on and trusting my gut feeling. Jason’s passion is meeting new and interesting people.

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Accepting help! Carers often find this is the hardest of things to do. We think we need to do everything ourselves! Accept help when it is offered!

A DAY IN THE LIFE! What they do to make it work for you!

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING ALTHEA FROM HORNSBY WILLS AND PROBATE

Yesterday! However, it is never too late to start. But where do you start! What is Estate Planning? To answer this important question and many more I spoke with Althea Wilis from Hornsby Wills and Probate whose focus is Estate Planning and it has been since 2016.

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WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? The reason I am so passionate about

We had to get Dad to his Solicitor, sort out

getting the “legals” done early and right is

the new power of attorney, find out where

that you never know when a loved one will

his bank accounts were so we could keep

pass and that when the time comes some of

paying his aged care bills.

the stress is reduced for you and all your loved ones.

Because we were so caught up with the emotional fog of grieving that we didn’t

Having lived through a difficult and

notice that my name was spelled wrong –

emotional situation where our Father’s

so we had to go back and do it all again.

main carer – our sister, Marilyn passed unexpectedly and was the only power of

We don’t want anyone else to have to go

attorney, I know what an emotionally

through the added burden of only having

challenging time it is when you don’t have

one power of attorney and not having the

the “legals” sorted correctly.

“legals" sorted.

Not for one moment did we think that

I asked Althea what was her main piece of

Marilyn would pass before Dad, but she did.

advice – without hesitation it was “Do It

She was the main carer so it made sense

Early”!

that she was the only power of attorney, the only one that knew his financial situation and bank accounts. Marilyn suffered two cardiac arrests and was place on life support which was turned off a week later. In a week that we wanted to sit by our darling Marilyn’s bedside – holding her hand, brushing her hair and farewelling her my other sister, Yvonne, and I couldn't. 46 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? Estate planning will:

Assess capacity and no undue influence.

Reduce The Great Document Scramble.

Assessment of capacity is very

Help you get what YOU want for your

important and a key area of the process,

estate.

including evidence that you have

Stop any possible manipulation.

assessed capacity.

Reduce the emotional fog and stress at a difficult time.

Each person’s priorities, family structure are different and it is important for the

There are two parts to Althea’s role:

person preparing the Estate Planning

Administration of the deceased estate

documentation to get a proper grasp of

Estate planning

what is required.

I want to focus on Estate Planning which is

There are several Estate Planning

preparing for death or incapacity. Before

documents we will be looking that are used

we dive into this very meaty topic here are

to ensure your choices are properly

some key points that Althea shared with

recorded - Will, Power of Attorney,

me:

Enduring Guardianship and Advanced Care Directive. Having conversations with family members so everyone is on the same

Will

page.

Having a concise and well-written will is

Knowing where things are all the legal

essential to having your choices met.

and financial documentation.

Issues to be considered are the

Doing it early and review regularly.

appointment of executors, residue clauses

Direct instructions from client – usually

and interpretation of the intention of the

one to one in a confidential

will.

environment. Knowing that your wishes are looked after.

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WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? Get third-party advice so what you want is

Some of the challenges of preparing a will

clearly explained.

are: The capacity of the person making the

Will drafting is very conventional, general

will.

rules for interpretation can also apply.

Know the nature and extent of the property.

That’s why a professional will make it easier

Knowing family members and potential

for you and all the family. A record of your

claims against the estate.

instructions will be kept and can be

Understanding potential issues – more

produced as evidence if there are questions

than just making a document and

about what was intended.

signing it properly. Emotional time and families don’t

Will kits can be problematic, they can be

always understand and get on so it is

valid but you need to include everything

important to make sure the true

and often times the will kit doesn’t cover

essence of what a client wants is

complex family structures or complicated

included in the will.

choices of the estate.

Lives and financial situations are more complex today and need to be dealt

Attempting to complete the required

with – trusts, self-managed super fund

documents when someone is ill or

and blended families.

incapacitated is very difficult for everyone and you need a professional to assist you

Traditionally this is an area we don’t talk

through the minefield.

about and is often thought to be rude or disrespectful however it is the opposite.

Another reason to do your Estate planning

Making sure our loved one's choices are

early!

met is a matter of love, not disrespect.

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WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? It is important to review and update your

A few key aspects for both documents are

will every 5 to 10 years or when something

that you can have more than one,

substantial changes. Family and financial

cascading, and dictate terms –

situations change over time and a Will

appointments and restrictions.

needs to be reviewed and updated regularly Knowing the power you are giving to others Funding aged care and estate management

is important.

is important to accurately record any loans and financial situations. Documentation of

This is why you need to do this early,

reasons for why a will is written in a certain

before diminished capacity! So you get a

way to ensure the interpretation is correct.

say!

Power of Attorney (POA)

Advanced Care Directives

This document is used for financial and

Is a document specifically for end-of-life

legal issues. It gives the authorised person

care and it is suggested to see your medical

to manage financial and legal issues when

professional to go through all options. If

you can’t. Having a POA in place early is

you have one you need to make sure your

important as you don’t know when you

enduring guardian knows about the

need it.

advanced care directives.

Enduring Guardianship This document is used for medical and lifestyle issues. You can have a different person to the POA however it is important that both know about each other.

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WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? There is a lot of information about Estate

A few key aspects for both documents are

Planning and it is important to seek

that you can have more than one,

professional advice however I wanted to

cascading, and dictate terms –

share with you what happens if this

appointments and restrictions.

documentation isn’t in place you or a loved one passes.

Knowing the power you are giving to others is important.

Will: There is a statutory order that will

This is why you need to do this early,

determine what will happen to your estate.

before diminished capacity! So you get a

You don’t get to choose who will distribute

say!

your estate. Advanced Care Directives POA: No option but to apply to the Civil and

Is a document specifically for end-of-life

Administrative Tribunal in your state.. No

care and it is suggested to see your medical

default provisions. This is why it is so

professional to go through all options. If

important to have these in place prior to

you have one you need to make sure your

diminished capacity. Do this early so you

enduring guardian knows about the

get to choose who is going to manage your

advanced care directives.

financial issues. Get this done early – talk to you all your family – you, your aged loved ones and your kids who have assets. It is never too soon!

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WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? Enduring Guardianship:

I always knew that this was a complex and complicated area but I didn’t realise how

The precise rules in each state will differ. In

much a professional will help with estate

NSW, there is a hierarchy of people who

planning and how important it is to have a

can make decisions for you under the

person you trust to make a hard time

Guardianship Act. 1987 (NSW). Where you

easier.

have no enduring guardian the hierarchy allows your spouse to make decisions for

Knowing what to ask, what to include and

you. If there isn’t a spouse it is important to

how to construct the documentation

put this in place so you get to choose

properly so your wishes are carried out.

whom you want. My advice is to go and see a professional. I always knew that this was a complex and

Money well spent for peace of mind and

complicated area but I didn’t realise how

helping to ease the emotional fog of the

much a professional will help with estate

administration of a deceased estate.

planning and how important it is to have a person you trust to make a hard time

Althea has shared some of the areas that

easier.

need to be considered however, I am sure there is so much more to estate planning

Knowing what to ask, what to include and how to construct the documentation properly so your wishes are carried out.

51 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

than I have mentioned here today.

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR ESTATE PLANNING? You don’t know what you don’t know!

Final three thoughts:

Having a professional will help you have your choices documented so it will relieve

Best bit of advice: Helping friends is great

some of the emotional fog for your loved

but make sure you look after yourself too!

ones.

Think of it like driving a car and dropping off friends – this is great! Don’t forget to

Althea is available at

keep enough petrol for yourself too.

https://hornsbywillsandprobate.com.au to help you with your estate planning and I

If in 5 years it won’t matter, what do you

highly recommend Althea to you for

wish you wouldn’t have spent more than 5

assistance in the Hornsby area.

minutes on: Wish I had said this or done that. Get my brain space into the present

Disclaimer: This article is to highlight the

and not worry about what could have been.

need for Estate planning and is in no way telling you what your choices should be. It is

What are you passionate about: Helping to

to let you know you have a clear process

make things a little easier for people when

available so your choices are recorded.

they need it the most, Doing something that is meaningful, Family and friends.

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THE GIFT OF MUSIC CONNECTING THROUGH MUSC

One of the things our father loved was the

Julie and I discussed how The Seniors

Friday afternoon entertainment at his aged

Channel is on a mission to bring joy to

care home.

every aged care resident in Australia.

The live shows were his favourite. I still

For more than six years Julie was providing

remember the smile on his face as he

entertainment in aged care homes,

danced around the floor.

specialising in entertaining Dementia patients.

I often wonder how aged care homes are providing entertainment for residents

According to Julie “Music is a connector,

during lockdowns.

connector to memories, family and the person sitting next to you”.

Not many people know this however lockdowns are common in aged care homes

As Julie shared how residents connected

– not just during COVID times but if there

with the music and her during her

is an outbreak of flu or gastro. Lockdowns

performance I was instantly transported to

happen regularly.

a wonderful memory of my Dad enjoying his favourite song “Lilly Marlene”. The way

The Senior’s Channel is the perfect

he connected with the music, the lyrics and

solution.

his memories.

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THE GIFT OF MUSIC CONNECTING THROUGH MUSC

What a wonderful gift to give others,

Most requests are performed although

enhancing their lives by connecting them to

there was that one time a Metallica song

memories.

was requested and whilst Julie does have a large repertoire a compromise was needed.

Talking with Julie I glimpsed into her world for a fleeting moment or two.

Julie performed a Cold Chisel song instead. Julie has experienced many lockdowns prior

Walking into an aged care home can be

to the COVID pandemic and this often

confronting, residents are often sitting

played havoc with her performances and

around in a sad or low mood, bored or

the resident's entertainment.

lonely. Did you know that 40% of residents don’t

In February 2020 Julie had performed at an

get visitors!

aged care home that had the first outbreak of COVID.

Julie described the change of mood when she walks in and sets up for her

Dealing with the Health authorities and as

performance.

one of the first contact tracing situations, it was apparent to Julie something new

Instantly there is a buzz. The mood lightens

needed to be designed to keep residents

and there is an air of excitement.

entertained.

Julie interacts with residents prior, during and after her performance and the residents love it. Connecting with each other through the music and other activities. Sharing memories and stories, bringing a smile to their eyes as they are magically transferred back to their younger years. 54 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

THE GIFT OF MUSIC CONNECTING THROUGH MUSC

The idea was born to take performances

Julie explained the different rollouts on the

online.

horizon for the Seniors Channel:

This is just as well as Julie lost all her

1st rollout is for Aged Care homes

bookings in 2020.

2nd rollout is for Home Care Providers and Retirement Homes

Fast forward and planning is in full swing

3rd rollout is for anyone over 65

for the Seniors Channel and there have already been a number of services rolled

There will be free content for seniors

out.

through a hub that will be an information and knowledge centre with free games.

This isn’t just live-streaming a concert, this is an interactive program that has the

The performances will be through a

following elements:

monthly subscription much like “Netflix for

Performance

Seniors” and can be viewed on a phone,

Activities to Engage Residents

ipad or smart tv.

Activity Aid for Carers To find out all about the Seniors Channel

There are more elements on the way too – exercises, mental stimulation games. The longer we talked the more I could see that this was such a valuable program to help lifestyle coordinators to provide connection, engagement and entertainment to residents. A web-based platform that is interactive with aids to help the carers.

55 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

Contact Julie at https://www.theseniorschannel.com

THE GIFT OF MUSIC CONNECTING THROUGH MUSC

This is such a great idea and service that

Final three thoughts:

the Seniors Channel is providing and there are a few ways you could get involved:

Julie’s best bit of advice is a quote “ What other people think of me is none of my

Corporate Sponsorship – how awesome

business”.

would it be for your business to support this great program

If in 5 years it won’t matter 5 minutes what

Gifting a subscription

do you wish you didn’t worry about “Changing people’s values”

Julie provided the following tips to help keep the memories alive Make a playlist of your aged loved ones favourite music. Play it over and over again. Notice their reactions to each song and what memories they envoke. Talk to them about their memories. Music really is the gift of connection.

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Julie’s passion is bringing joy to the elderly.

CONNECTING WITH A HEART DCAF CONNECTIONS

Last issue I mentioned that one of The Carer’s Champion’s charities was DCaf Connections and today I want to introduce you to Fiona Jenkins from DCaF Connections. DCaF Connections has been running for over three years now and is run by a group of volunteers to help keep loved ones and their carers connected with others in a place where everyone feels safe. DCaF Connections' weekly social cafés and monthly carers' cafés are designed to give people living with dementia and their family carers an opportunity outside of their home to socialise, relax and discover ways to live well with dementia. The group meets regularly at the Warrawee Bowls Club. This group is mainly for partners although they also have had children with their aged loved ones attend.

57 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

The longer I spoke with Fiona the more in awe I am of this great group and as we talked about how it started in 2018 with just six to eight couples by mid-2019 there were 10 couples regularly attending the sessions. There was even a waiting list. Prior to lockdown in 2020 there were 19 couples. This is testimony to the group of volunteers that make sure this group continues and flourishes. Consistency is the key. Fiona explained how it is important to keep everything the same. Same time, same day and same people if possible. Being in a comfortable space where you can trust others to treat your loved one with respect and understanding.

CONNECTING WITH A HEART DCAF CONNECTIONS

The group holds different events in

As I was talking with Fiona it occurred to

addition to their regular group meetings.

me that we often retell our memories.

Forums and information sessions are also on the calendar and it was during one of

When we meet new people, when we get

the “come and try” session for lawn bowls

to know others and when we are with our

that one of the carers didn’t want to leave

loved ones we reshare the memories that

their loved one although they had always

bring us joy and happiness even if others

wanted to try lawn bowls. Fiona pointed

have heard it before – we don’t blink twice

out that their loved one was sitting

when it happens. Why don’t we think about

comfortably talking with others, just as they

it the same way with our loved ones with

do each week and that they were

dementia? It is just the same – they just

comfortable and safe.

don’t remember they are sharing their stories again?

The carer agreed to have a go, with a few tentative glances backward they went off

When we flip this around and we think

and had a great time. Connecting with a

about what our aged loved ones can’t

new activity and people all the while

remember anymore we get frustrated when

knowing that their loved one was safe,

we have to repeat things.

close by and with people that cared for them.

Maybe we need to adjust the way we think about what is important. What matters the

Yes as Fiona shared this one instance of

most to our aged loved ones – the boring

how the group helps the carer to feel

everyday stuff or the wonderful memories

comfortable enough to trust the care of

they have created in their lives.

their loved one to another even for a short while, I had tears in my eyes. It’s all we really want for our loved ones isn’t it - to be safe, comfortable, and cared for.

58 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

It takes a moment to connect for a lifetime

CONNECTING WITH A HEART DCAF CONNECTIONS

Does it really matter if I have to repeat why

I have joined a couple of the meetings and

a car is different because my aged loved

it is a wonderful group – the first week I

one can’t remember that we sold it three

joined they had a presentation by Anne

years ago yet she can remember the name

who was a part of a group that created an

of her dog and how it used to what for her

interactive sensory walk especially for

when she got out of school and walk her

people with dementia.

home? To find out more about the DCaF It has given me a whole new way of looking

Connections checkout the facebook page

at our loved one who is starting the

https://www.facebook.com/DCaf-

dementia journey.

Connections-101612998014535 Or contact Fiona on

2021 has brought a few changes for DCaF

feeshal@optusnet.com.au

Connections and with the current lockdown the meetings are now online and whilst logging into a zoom meeting has had a few challenges, many couples have mastered it and are still meeting regularly.

DCaF Connections' attendees exercising

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Be the change you want to see in the

Providing support to family members caring

world.

for their aged loved ones I will always be your sensitive, sensible, support and

This is my favourite Gandhi quote.

solutions network.

Aged Care with Ease (ACE) has always taken this as our mantra - being on the caring journey it is the cornerstone of what we were doing. We wanted to see that family members caring for their aged loved ones were looked after - not forgotten. That's why we started ACE to care for the forgotten carers. One of the things that ACE has taught us is that no matter what anyone does they often lose themselves - it can be caring, it is business, it can be life stomping the life out of you. It doesn't matter what causes you stress we can all learn how to stress less.

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Tip: Knowledge Trap: You Don't Know What You Don't Know Trick: Be part of a Support Network

The Perfect Spot to Advertise your Product or Service agedcarewithease@gmail.com

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Shining a light on Products and Services!

You don't know what you don't know! In this section I will sharing different products and services with you. Products and services that can make the caring journey easier for you and for your aged loved ones. Not all of the products and services will be right for you but it will show you what is available. When we know better we do better!

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SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

I am on a mission to find services and

Mobility can be an issue for many of our

products to make carer’s lives easier and to

aged loved ones at home or in a home. To

enhance the quality of life for our aged

have a mobile service that provides a dental

loved ones.

check-up and clean at our place would solve many problems. Often times the

A mission that I chose to accept because

easiest way is to miss the check-up and

when we know better we do better, and I

then our aged love ones suffer.

really wish someone had been around to help me when I was caring for Dad. I didn’t

Oral care for dementia patients can be

have the time to look for services and

difficult and Jacquie can help with training

products – I was too busy caring for Dad!

to ease some of the challenges.

And without further ado - I am really

Bad oral health can often be an early sign

pleased to introduce you to Jacquie from

of other health issues. It really is important

Senior Dental Care – a mobile dental

to have regular checkups for everyone. It is

service that will come to your home or an

far easier to deal with issues before they

aged care home.

become major problems.

Oral health is important especially for our

But it is more than that – when we have

aged loved ones. When I was caring for our

issues with our mouths it can take away the

Father I wish this service would have been

simple pleasures of enjoying food and drink.

available.

And then nutrition and healthy eating becomes an issue.

One of the things that Dad often complained about was that his dentures slipped and felt loose. I didn’t know that as we age our dentures need to be regularly checked and resized because our gums change. Just another thing a carer needs to be on top of! 62 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

Our aged loved ones deserve to enjoy a

Signs that there are oral health issues:

quality of life that includes good oral health where they can enjoy eating and drinking

Bad breath.

their favourite healthy foods.

Bleeding gums. Red gums.

Jacquie provided the following tips for

Not chewing as normal.

ensuring good oral health for our aged

Evidence that dentures are slipping or

loved ones:

moving around. Or not wearing dentures.

Daily brushing twice a day. Regular dental checks.

Sometimes carers need to listen with their

Put up signs at home to prompt teeth

eyes and look for any changes because our

cleaning.

aged loved ones don’t always tell us

Create a fun mood to encourage good

everything.

oral health. If cleaning teeth is difficult try getting a

Dental care can also be included in your

good rinse out with water.

home care package – talk to your provider

For aged care homes Jacquie provides a

about including an oral health can plan on

number of services including training for

their Care Plan.

staff and bulk check-ups and cleans for residents. Remember identifying any major dental work early enhances the likelihood of a positive outcome. Dental disease only progresses it never gets better unless you get on top of it and implement a care regime. Prevention is better than cure!

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SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

Senior Dental Care is located in Sydney,

Now that is really something to smile

however, they can also offer Telehealth

about!

services to discuss any dental issues and possible solutions.

Contact jacquie.seniordentalcare@gmail.com to get

Wouldn’t it be great if your aged loved one

all the details.

could have regular checkups and cleans at home or in their aged care home? Carers can also have a check-up and clean at home too! We all know that at times we can’t get to our own appointments and wouldn’t it be great to have a check-up and clean at home.

64 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

Check out www.seniordentalcare.com

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS!

Adaptive clothing hasn’t been something

More orders soon followed with requests

that I thought about, ok let’s be honest

for blouses and trousers and before you

until a few weeks ago I didn’t really

knew it a Men’s range was added to the

understand what it was and how important

growing Ladies' range.

it is for carers and our aged loved ones. For Linda it has been 27 years of Yes, it is another case of “you don’t know

developing, listening and learning to design

what you don’t know”.

the range and now they are one of the biggest in Australia with an outlet in the Uk

I wanted to know more about adaptive

plus orders regularly from the US and

clothing so I contacted Linda from Petal

Canada.

Back Clothing to find out more. It was an absolute pleasure to talk with Linda and

The range of clothes was going to be called

unravel the adaptive clothing enigma.

“The Flinders Range” a very clever play on words describing Linda’s range of adaptive

Linda was a buyer for Myer/Grace Brothers

clothing plus her father came from the SA.

and designer for house brand swimwear for

However, fate intervened and nurses

over 24 years. When her nanna became

starting asking for “the petal brand” and

inactive Linda modified one of her swim

some even started calling Linda – Petal!

skirt designs for her. And so the Petal Back range was born. The nurse who was caring for Linda’s nanna said that using this new garment was the easiest “change” she had ever done for any of her patients. She was so impressed she ordered one for another patient.

65 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS!

Linda and I spoke about the importance of

It is no wonder that with all the care,

having clothing that was easy to change for

thoughtfulness and design knowledge the

patients that are inactive, but it is more

Petal Back range is also described by Work

than that some dementia patients become

Safe as a product that is perfect for not

frustrated when clothing can’t be changed

only patients but for the people who care

quickly.

for them.

There are also some instances where being

There is a risk to carers when they are

changed can be painful for patients and any

changing inactive patients into non

prolonged changes cause more pain.

adaptive clothing.

As we spoke more about the designs I was

At this stage of our conversation I was

intrigued to find out that all the clothing is

blown away with all the information that

made with specially knitted fabrics to

Linda had shared:

ensure extra care and safety for patients – making sure that the garments don’t catch

No Velcro, studs or buttons

on the skin. The fabric also had to be sturdy

Specially knitted fabrics for the range

enough to be washed in an industrial

Soft on the inside yet sturdy enough for

laundry.

an industrial laundry Specially designed clothing that is

Garments are made with no Velcro, studs or

generous in size but is designed to fit

buttons.

properly so it drapes properly and brings dignity to patients

66 | THE CARERS CHAMPION

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS!

I had no idea that all these things were taken into consideration when designing the range of clothing. When Linda started designing the range her nana said to her “Just remember I always get dressed. I wear lipstick and beads, give me garments that I want to wear and makes me feel good”. It’s wonderful to know the inspiration behind each design. I remember how proud my father was about his appearance even as he was declining and his eyesight deteriorated, he was always particular about the way he looked. Having some garments that were specially designed would have helped him in so many ways.

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Clothing designed with love for the people we love

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS!

However, it is more than that – when we

Linda does have a website and whilst online

look good we feel good and that doesn’t

shopping continues nothing beats taking

change when we grow older or if we are

the range to homes and hosting a “fashion

inactive.

parade” for residents and staff.

Finding suitable clothing that makes life

The range was developed in association

easier for our aged loved ones and their

with dementia and aged care nursing

carers isn’t just something nice to have it is

professionals, incontinence organisations

a necessity.

and occupational therapists.

Personal care gives you a lift and every day

Dressing not only for success but for ease

and it is so important for people in care.

and comfort too!

The past 18 months have been challenging

Check out all the details at

for Petal Back Clothing, due to the

https://www.petalbackclothing.com.au/

restrictions visits to aged care homes can

If you have any questions contact Linda at info@petabackclothing.com

no longer occur and word of mouth is one of the greatest ways people get to hear about the range of clothing.

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COMMUNICATING WITH SERVICE PROVIDERS

I am always on the lookout for products and services that enhances the caring journey and the lives of our aged loved ones and their carers. From the everyday products we know well and feel comfortable using to the new and unusual. I like introducing you to something you may not have heard of before. LiraCare is one of those products that is new and unusual, something I see that will be beneficial for family members caring for their aged loved ones. I met Max last year when he was talking to carers about what challenges carers face. I really like this idea and think it would be a good way for all family members to know what is going on with their aged loved ones – it would help with communicating care issues especially if siblings aren’t on the best of terms.

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Having a mother that worked in the aged care sector Max saw a need for a tool that connects the elderly, bringing together their entire care ecosystem with their family for better health outcomes and more informed decision making. Sounds easy, well not to this nontech savvy person, however, I do see the merit in this platform. Actually as we all head towards more online services such as TeleHealth this just makes sense to take this part of providing care online too. Especially if you are self-managing the home care.

COMMUNICATING WITH SERVICE PROVIDERS

Max explained how LiraCare was a system using software to bridge the gap between providers and families empowering carers by bringing together all service providers in one spot. An interactive system that is easy to use and accessible to all the family. Creating a system where complex issues can be addressed by simple communication between all parties. The system is currently still under development. After conducting many interviews the team is currently tweaking the system and Max would like to talk to more carers and service providers to ensure the software can meet all needs. If you would like to take part in helping to shape the software please contact me at agedcarewithease@gmail.com and I will pass on your details to Max.

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TOP HACKS TO MAKE EVERYTHING EASIER AT HOME

Please note: This article has been provided

Kleva Range is an Australian owned and

by Kleva Range

operated online store with over 300 everyday innovations listed for sale at any

With the extended lockdown occurring in

one time. Founded in 2010, Kleva Range is

New South Wales, Victoria and now the

the largest supplier in Australia for out-of-

ACT, more people are realising the stresses

this-world inventions and gadgets

of staying isolated at home, even when it

guaranteed to improve your lifestyle at

comes to relatively simple chores or daily

minimal cost.

tasks. According to Cheney, there are a number of As Kleva Range founder and CEO James

different items that serve as ‘hacks’,

Cheney states, “these times are challenging

allowing you to undertake routines more

for all of us, but there are ways to stay

efficiently at home, which means having

home while also staying as sane as

more time for things that are truly worth

possible.”

your time. Following on from other articles in this

According to Cheney, it actually may come

issue here are some great ideas for helping

down to slight modifications to things you

your aged loved ones to eat healthily.

are doing on a regular basis. With Kleva Range’s home and kitchen products, Cheney hopes that people’s isolated lifestyles can feel less tedious, and possibly more enjoyable.

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START THE DAY WITH A HEALTHY AND NUTRITIOUS BREAKFAST “A healthy, nutritious breakfast will work

Freeze multiple meals and meats and

wonders for the morning and help you feel

defrost when needed

great before proceeding with your remote

As more people are getting used to staying

work".

in every night and cooking up a storm, another hack Cheney mentions is using the

Cheney recommends using Kleva’s 3 In 1

Defreezi® Defrosting Tray, which

Stainless Steel Fruit Slicer in order to slice a

accelerates the thawing process of frozen

range of fruits easily. Made with quality

food through absorption of natural heat

stainless steel blades, each blade is

from the air. “With no plug, cords or cables,

specifically designed to cut out apples,

you can count on it to speed up your

pears, oranges, mangoes and other similar

cooking chores better,” Cheney added.

fruits, without leaving a mess or risking hand injuries.

“Cooking up multiple meals and storing in separate containers so you can easily pull

Also, Cheney names the Tap N Crack Egg

one out of the freezer and heat it up when

Cracker as a personal favourite of many

you need it, is a fantastic time saver –

people who’ve adopted the work-from-

especially if you want a few nights off

home lifestyle since the pandemic began

cooking.”

last year. “Simply lift the weighted cracker and release – that’s all it takes,” he said.

Check out the full range of products from

Eggs are great protein.

Kleva range at www.klevarange.com.au

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SEVEN ARTHRITIS MYTHS BUSTED

Please note: This article has been provided

“The internet is a powerful tool and it

by Arborvitae Health and Wellbeing

contains a lot of beneficial and useful information, but unfortunately it is also a

The COVID pandemic has driven a

place where people such as ill-informed

significant change in behaviour across the

influencers and bloggers sprout a lot of

country with more people online than ever

misinformation.

before. Screen time is up and people are spending more time surfing, socialising and

“We are seeing a lot more information

shopping online.

being promoted and shared that undermines good health and wellbeing

According to Brendan Howell, the increase

practices and supports the promotion of

in online activity is delivering positive and

questionable products. Concerningly, a lot

negative impacts for people, especially in

of the information and associated products

the health and wellness sector.

are targeting the elderly who are worried and vulnerable.”

Brendan Howell is the Director of Arborvitae Health and Wellbeing, one of

Howell has put together a list of seven

Australia’s fastest-growing supplement

myths and BUSTED them in the hope that

companies.

this might help people avoid some of the concerning information being shared online:

Founded in 2014, the Australian familyowned business produces the trusted range

Grapefruit tablets will cure arthritis

of Arborvitae supplements including the

“This is a ridiculous myth and it is totally

highly popular Arborvitae’s Joint Health

false. Arthritis can not be cured but

which many people with arthritis take to

supplements, medication and lifestyle

reduce pain and discomfort.

changes can effectively manage symptoms and support normal activity,” Howell said. .

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“Increase your intake of fresh fruits and

Drinking ginger tea every day will stop you

vegetables as some have anti-inflammatory

getting arthritis

properties that will assist with

“Sadly, this is not true either. While you can

inflammation.”

minimise the risks associated with developing arthritis, you can not stop the

Avoid exercise if you have an arthritis flare

onset of arthritis by drinking ginger tea.

The best approach is to reduce weight,

“This is simply not true. In fact, movement

avoid smoking, eat well and keep moving,”

is important for the joints, especially if you

Howell added.

have arthritis. Many doctors state that regular well managed exercise may help

Arthritis only affects the joints

with arthritis,” Howell added.

“Unfortunately this is not true either. There

“While arthritic joints may sometimes need

are more than 100 kinds of arthritis and

a short period of rest, gradually returning to

related conditions. Types of arthritis such

activity is important and helps to maintain

as rheumatoid arthritis typically cause joint

strength and range of motion in your

pain and swelling, but it also impacts the

joints.”

heart, lungs and other areas of the body. Many people encounter fatigue and poor

Heat is better than ice on arthritic joints

sleep as a result,” Howell said.

“False. Applying heat and cold to the joints is beneficial. Everyone is different and

Massage honey and cider vinegar into the

responds differently. Applying a heat pack

joints

in the morning to joints helps to relax the

“Again, there is no evidence to suggest that

muscles that move stiff joints. Using ice

there is any benefit applying a concoction

packs at night can help to ease joint

of honey and cider to the joints. It is a

inflammation resulting from daily activities,”

remedy that seems to be used to help

Howell explained.

people overcome the common cold, but has absolutely no benefit in the management of arthritis,” Howell said.

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“Cut out all red meat

Many of our customers have reported

“False. Red meat is important for our health

significant improvements in their

as it supplies protein which is an essential

osteoarthritis after taking Arborvitae.

building block and vitamin b12, which helps make DNA and supports nerve and red

“In fact, an independent research study

blood cell health. It is essential to only eat

published last year concluded that

lean meat and as part of a balanced diet,”

Arborvitae Joint Health ‘may be an

Howell added.

effective supplementary management in controlling signs/symptoms of mild-

“Our advice to our customers is simple.

moderate [osteoarthritis]’. This includes a

Follow the management plan provided by

reduction in inflammation and,

your doctor and only include supplements

subsequently, pain related to osteoarthritis.

in your diet that are listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).

Arborvitae’s products are sold online and now stocked in over 1,200 pharmacies and

“Our products are listed on the ARTG. They

health food stores throughout the country.

contain Pycnogenol a French maritime pine bark extract and include other natural

An explosion in demand for Arborvitae

ingredients designed to quickly and

products fueled by positive feedback from

efficiently re-set the immune system and

users is seeing the company put in place

bring down inflammation in the body.

significant expansion plans both

Many people take our products to improve

domestically and internationally.

their health and wellbeing, in particular, Arborvitae Joint Health, to ease the symptoms and pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis. “Osteoarthritis is one of the key diseases where Arborvitae can assist in the minimisation of symptoms.

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www.arborvitae.com.au

Send me a pic of your best friend and I will include it in upcoming issues

Simba

YOUR PET PICS Send the pic to agedcarewithease@gma il.co m

Serafina in a Kazoo Peacock Bed

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Billie and our 95yr old Spending days knitting and being together

Is there anything you would like to know about - a product or service? Let me know and I will do my best to provide an article in upcoming issues.

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LIFESTYLE Living your best life, Your way!

Living your life. Your way! In this section our columnists will share tips, traps and tricks on how to live life your way. Making the most of each and every day. Not all of the products and services will be right for you however it will shine a light on how self-love, self-care and self-compassion isn't selfish! . When we know better we do better! 78 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Skin Support by Janita Janita is a mum of 2 young girls, a Rodan + Fields consultant, a melanoma survivor and a Certified Bling Angel. She is passionate about empowering young adults to find the fire and love within themselves to achieve great things. Follow janita on Insta @janitam_lloyd

Don’t think about the waste!! If it's out of date – it's not good for your face!!

Photography by Grace Costa

Spring has sprung and with being in lockdown for the first time since having kids I actually have the capacity to complete a full house Spring Clean!! And I’ve got to say I’m pretty excited !! One of the areas that generally gets missed when doing a spring clean is your beauty products – your skincare cleansers, moisturisers, serums, makeup and sunscreen. As a cheat guide when doing a spring clean out in your skincare products: Sunscreens usually have an expiry date of 2 years and is usually stamped on the sunscreen container. Other skincare products like cleansers and moisturisers tend to have an open jar symbol on the packaging with a number and a little “m” to show you how many months the product will be good after opening it. For example a 12m means the product will be good to use for 12 months from opening. It's easy to hold onto beauty and skincare products because we focus on the Waste ~ the waste of money, the waste of product, the addition of waste to landfills. However, even if your skincare and beauty products may still be in date, you also need to check the products for: change in colour, change in texture, if there is now a smell that wasn’t there before. Any changes can mean that bacteria has now contaminated your products which means the effectiveness and efficiency are no longer there. With the change in season, its also a great time to review your current skincare products as the products you use in winter may not be as useful to your skin with the weather warming up. If you are intrigued to spring clean your skincare routine I’m offering FREE skin consultations and a $20 Rodan and Fields gift voucher for all The Carer’s Champion's readers. No obligation, no pressure, just a friendly 30-minute chat about your skin concerns. To book text 0421491671 and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible with some availability. 79 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Journaling for Self-Care Sarah is Kinesiologist, Heart Healer, and Journaling Guide. AwardWinning Life & Business Coach, creator & host of the multi-award nominated Rock Your Goals Podcast, and a cheerleader for bighearted humans.

In a world that asks so much of us on a minute-to-minute basis, it’s nice to know there are some simple, free things we can do to support ourselves and our energy. One such magical tool is journaling. If you’ve ever wondered about journaling, but been unsure where to start or why it’s helpful, let me share a little goodness with you. For a start, I know it can feel overwhelming to even begin journaling. There are so many different options out there; everything from gratitude journaling and bullet journaling, to writing down your dreams or blending art, craft and scrapbooking with your journaling practice. To cut through the noise, and help you get out of your head and into your notebook, I have two simple techniques to share with you today. I invite you to take each one for a test drive and see what feels most supportive for you. Free Writing Free writing is easy to do. Simply grab a piece of paper and a pen and start writing. Write whatever’s on your heart or mind. Let the words flow, without worrying how it sounds or whether it makes sense. Let the words come through you and onto page, and keep writing until you have nothing more to write. Once you’re done, you might like to tear up or (safely) burn the pages and, as you do, set the intention that all of the energy captured in those pages is being sent up to the Universe and transformed into love. Free writing’s a really powerful way to clear the mental clutter, make space in the mind and heart, shift energy, and ‘take out the energetic garbage’ so you can create space for peace, calm, clarity and fresh perspective to flow in. It’s also a beautiful support if you’re experiencing strong emotions or have frustrations you need to get out (but perhaps feel like you can’t share with others). The blank pages offer you space to process what you’re feeling - without editing, filtering or worrying what anyone thinks!

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Journal Prompts Writing to prompts is like having a conversation with yourself and it’s a great way to bust through the block of a blank page and get you into the groove of journaling. Journal prompts can help you explore your thoughts, feelings, needs and desires about anything in your life. They’re great for helping you get under the surface, make sense of things, and connect more deeply with your inner guidance and wisdom. Using journal prompts is as simple as this: Find a prompt that feels good for you. Grab a notebook and pen. Write the prompt on the page and then write your answer. As you write, you might find that more questions come up and that’s okay (great, even!). Let yourself flow into conversation with yourself – asking and answering your own questions. To get you started, I’ve crafted 3 prompts for you to ponder and explore (and you can find more free prompts, as well as heart crafted journaling courses and experiences, over on my website). What I really need right now is… Something simple that would make a big difference in my life right now is… Today, I will be kind to myself by… I invite you to try journaling and see how it feels for you. It can be such a lovely support in everyday life and help you navigate the ups and downs with more ease and insight. And, if there’s anything I can do to support you on your journaling adventure, please feel so welcome to reach out. Sarah x P.S. like a little loving support to start your journaling adventure? Visit sarahjensen.com.au {link: https://www.sarahjensen.com.au/} for more free journal prompts or enjoy a beautiful, 10-day Start Journaling {link: https://www.sarahjensen.com.au/start-journaling/} experience for just AUD $13.

Check out the Giveaways page (29) for the chance to win one of Sarah's Journaling programs

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Life Style by DR Gina Kingston

Qualified Personal Stylist specialising in people with health issues. Gina’s mum had Multiple Systems Atrophy a Parkinson’s Plus disorder and Gina has scoliosis. They still want to look stylish.

3 Reasons to Stay Stylish When you spend all day caring for someone else it can easy to let your style slip. While smart suits and high heels just aren’t practical when you need to assist someone with daily activities, you can be practical and stylish. With so much of Australia in lockdown, when we aren’t seeing people every day, it can be even more tempting to let everything go and just throw on a baggy sweater and be done with it. However, while it might be easy, it isn’t a good thing to get into the habit of doing. Here are 3 reasons why you should make an effort to be stylish each day. What you wear affects your mood. If you have ever had a day when you felt blah and threw on jeans and a baggy top, or lounged around in your pyjamas all day, you will know that your mood affects what you wear. But did you know that the opposite is also true? Research has shown that what you wear affects your mood. Rather than dressing for the mood you have, dress for the mood you want. Choosing colourful clothes that fit well and flatter can make you happier. What you wear affects you what you eat. I was surprised when I first heard this, but research has shown that what you wear affects not only what, but how much you eat. Dressing up can help you eat more healthily and wearing revealing rather than baggy clothes can reduce how much you eat. If you are struggling to feel motivate to put together a healthy meal, or are snacking too much, try wearing something more fitted.

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What you wear can balance your need for consistency and variety. Research has shown that we need a balance between variety and consistency in our life. If you are feeling overwhelmed with your caring responsibilities, finding a go-to “uniform” that you can put on each day that has you looking good and feeling great can help reduce feelings of

overwhelm. If on the other hand you have your routine down pat, you may need to introduce some variety into your life. Even when we are time poor, we still need to get dressed. Rather than simply throwing on the first available outfit, taking a few extra seconds to create a new outfit can help fulfil that need for variety. Challenge yourself wear an item you haven’t worn for a while, add an accessory, or wear colours that you wouldn’t normally wear together and see how it makes you feel. Not every outfit will be a winner, but you will be sure to discover some new favourites if you keep exploring.

Have fun exploring your wardrobe. I would love to hear how you go. Next Month: How to look stylish with minimal effort. Gina offers personalised style sessions and group workshops. Her next workshop - How To Shop Online for Clothes that Fit and Flatter can be booked at www.calendly.com/ginakingstonstylist/how-to-shop-online Email: info@ginakingston.com Phone: 0479 087 923 Web: www.ginakingston.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ginakingstonstylist Instagram: www.instagram.com/ginakingstonstylist

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Self Compassion Alyson Williams is a Transformation; Mindset Coach and Self-love Mentor, she empowers women to love themselves and live a life they love. Alyson is a trained Transformational coach, Relationship coach, Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) Master Coach, Extended DISC Behaviour Analysis practitioner and Hypnotherapist and Bling Angel.

Why Forgiveness is Important Alexnder Pope, 18th century English philosopher & poet wrote: “To err is human, to forgive divine,” meaning that making mistakes is part of our humanness and we should aspire to be like God - loving and forgiving. You don’t have to be religious or spiritual to forgive, forgiveness has been scientifically proven to be beneficial. Forgiving someone who has hurt you -physically, emotionally and/or sexually IS difficult. However, forgiveness is about YOU, not them! It’s not about condoning what they did. It’s about releasing the hurt, anger, bitterness, etc, inside you instead of carrying it around with you letting it affect your quality of life. Socrates said: “Hate is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die!” Holding onto to anger and bitterness is similar, it hurts the person with those feelings not the object of the feelings. The Buddhist saying: “Holding onto anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone, you are the one who gets burned,” is another great analogy that demonstrates the futility of anger, hate and bitterness. Forgiveness is the gift you give yourself! The Mayo Clinic, centre for holistic health and wellbeing states that: “Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for improved health and peace of mind. Forgiveness can lead to: Healthier relationships Improved mental health Less anxiety, stress and hostility Lower blood pressure Fewer symptoms of depression A stronger immune system Improved heart health. Improved self-esteem”

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Just as hard is the ability to forgive ourselves and release any guilt. We are often our own worst critics, Treating ourselves worse than we treat others and judging ourselves more harshly than we judge others. The first step in self-forgiveness is to accept and acknowledge our mistakes. Selfcompassion is important in forgiving ourselves; treating ourselves with the same understanding we show to a loved one is the key. If we can rectify the situation, we should, if not, then it’s about accepting that we all do the best we can with what we have and resolving to do better. An effective strategy for forgiveness is to write a letter to the person who mistreated you, outline what they did, how it made you feel and that while you do not excuse it, you are now choosing to forgive them and release the hold their actions have on you. If need be, forgive yourself in the letter, too. You can do this even with people who have died or are no longer in your life. The object of the exercise is not to send the letter but rather to free yourself from the burden of the pain caused to you. Many of my clients find this practice very cathartic. You might choose to write a letter of forgiveness to yourself. Key to forgiving ourselves is the permission to do so. If you need it, let this article be the permission you seek. I promise you feel so much better afterwards. If you would to embark on a journey to increase your self-forgiveness practices contact Alyson, details below. Email: coach.pylc@gmail.com Website: www.poweryourlifecoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlysonLWilliams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyson-williams-434ab6117/ Phone: +61 432 580 886 My Linktree:: https://linktr.ee/Alyson_Williams

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Healthy Eating on a Budget Mary-Anne Bennett is Adelaide's leading Nutritionist and she is dedicated to helping women with chronic health issues, reset their health and vitality and get their life back. Mary-Anne’s approach is simple, strategic and individualized. She dives deeply into each client’s genes, nutrition and lifestyle to create a health and wellness plan harnessing the power of your genes and healthy eating.

Healthy Eating Starts With Real Food! When it comes down to it, trying to work out what to eat that is healthy can be a challenge. And that does not fact or in time and the cost. With the price of food (and every other household expense) going up, it can be hard to make ends meet and especially sticking to a food budget. But what is ‘healthy eating’? Do you really know? Even before I was a nutritionist, I was a single mum and carer, having to negotiate the food preferences of 4 fussy kids, 2 of whom had a disability. Working full time, as well as all the kid wrangling, left me stressed and time poor. And one of the keys things I had to learn, was how to cook and prepare simple meals on a budget. Which was harder than you think, when you factor in food allergies, intolerances and preferences, and being tired all the time. Here’s what I learnt, skills that I now teach all of my clients, because there is an assumption that everyone knows this stuff. Healthy eating starts with real food! DOFruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains- if it doesn’t’ look like a plant, it’s not really food Frozen vegetables and fruit are a healthy and convenient alternative Canned beans, tomatoes and vegetables are cheap and affordable- make sure there is nothing added Home brand items can be cheaper and often without additives Legumes- beans, chickpeas and lentils make a great alternative to meat Buy your pantry staples in bulk from a wholesaler Buy locally from a farmer’s market Grow seasonal fruit and veg yourself Buy good quality sourdough or rye bread Buy block cheese and slice and grate it yourself HINT- If you leave your bread out of the fridge and it stays fresh for a week and doesn’t go mouldy, it’s a sign that it’s full of nasty preservatives and mould inhibitors!

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DON’T Buy pre-packaged food- most contain sugar and preservatives that are not healthy Buy low-fat or sugar free- they often contain additives and toxic artificial sweeteners Numbers on a food label are bad- get yourself a copy of The Chemical Maze Don’t shop when you are hungry as you are more likely to buy things you don’t need Be supermarket savvy and watch out for items on ‘special’ as sometimes the price isn’t

reduced And when it comes to cooking, I still love to make meals and snacks that are quick and easy. Having a cooking day, making snacks and meals in bulk, is still a weekly occurrence at my house. It takes a bit of planning, so try these easy steps Schedule a cooking day- morning, evening or weekend- whatever works for you Do a weekly meal plan including snacks for the whole family Make a shopping list- check what you already have to save money Go to the supermarket, fruit & veg shop or butcher and buy just what’s on your list Get cooking! And if you would like some help, you can download my Quick Easy Recipe ebook from my webpage - or check the Giveaways page 29 for details. I would like to offer readers a Free 30 Minute Health Consult, Just check the giveaways page 29 or send an email to maryanne@adelaidenutritionandwellbeing.com.au- FREE HEALTH CONSULT and mention the Carers Champion Mary-Anne Bennett Clinical Nutritionist Adelaide Nutrition & Wellbeing Email: maryanne@adelaidenutritionandwellbeing.com.au www.adelaidenutritionandwellbeing.com.au Phone: 0405125785

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Mindfully Me Dee Brennan – is a Wellbeing and Mindfulness Coach, Mum, Runner and total Coffee snob. Her number one priority in life is to take care of herself first. Having had cancer and been a carer for family members with cancer it’s health that matters most. Her non-negotiable meditation and mindfulness practice helps her handle life with more ease.

Bring Mindfulness Into Your Day the Easy Way! How easy is it to go almost the whole day without meeting your own needs? And when you do realise this at 7pm, do you even have the capacity to know what you need? As you read this right now, pause and take 1 big breath, I’ll wait… There is another way of doing life, it’s called Mindfulness. There are 2 ways you can typically practice mindfulness. In meditation generally with your eyes closed, connecting to your breath and body or as a daily mindful activity. Here are 3 easy mindful activities to try; Morning Mindful Cuppa – When you wake up in the morning do not check social media, your emails or the news. The first thing you do is attend to yourself. Savour your morning cuppa and enjoy a moment to just sit. This is my personal favourite and a practice I’ve enjoyed for 5 years. Mindful Walking in Nature – If there was just one thing that would give people bang for buck for their wellbeing it would be this. A 10 minute walk at lunch time can be a great reset. Put your phone on silent if possible, a few moments of no notification bell’s can be blissful. Be mindful of what you notice on your walk. Look around like it’s the first time you’ve been here. Nature helps us to connect to all our senses and brings us into the present. A Mindful Breath First – Before any meeting, phone call, appointment or next task, take a big intentional breath and drop into the moment in front of you. Your ability to be present is a superpower. This can help you to let go of what was happening 5 minutes ago, put down any future worries for now and really show up. Treat your presence as a gift, it could mean the world to someone or their worst day. That’s a big deal.

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Choose 1 way you can bring mindfulness into your day and write it down where you can see it. When we are starting anything new we need visible reminders. Once the habit is built (like brushing your teeth) it then becomes a part of your lifestyle.

Dee’s next program starts Monday 11th October, Meditation & Mojo – A 4 Week Online Coaching Program to help you hand stress better and improve your wellbeing. Check out Dee's social for all the details FB – thinkoutloud Insta – thinkoutloudwellness www.thinkoutloud.com.au deanne@thinkoutloud.com.au

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HARMONY IN WORDS A Book Review By Yvonne Heitz from Word Harmony Proofreading and Editing Enterprise

Husband Replacement Therapy by Kathy Lette

This book was suggested by Rita Merienne, and I just loved the fact that we were both reading it at the same time, as we would compare the chapter that we just read and laugh about the similarities within our own lives. It is a funny but sometimes serious story about siblings and husbands, for me, it was a very funny read ~ as the coincidences were so uncanny. Kathy Lette is a famous author and I reckon her best claim to fame is co-author of Puberty Blues and that she was married to Geoffrey Roberston and I did wonder whether the story was about him… Kathy Lette has also written numerous other books – approximately 18 in total and although I have not read them yet, they are on my list to read. This story involved three sisters and their lives, a lot like my family. What was appealing for me was that the three sisters went on a cruise. And that is exactly what my two siblings had planned many years ago, kind of sad that it never happened. At times the language is a bit outlandish, but it certainly adds to the content of the story.

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I still cannot believe that the main character can see the Doctor on the Cruise Ship for so many reasons ~ that cannot possibly happen to one person ~ but it did ~ and I guess it is just a love story in the end ~ isn’t that what we all want. There are quite a few twists and turns throughout this book, and I am sure you will enjoy the story and laughter in between the serious stuff.

I hope you get the opportunity to read this comical delight and enjoy it as much as I did.

Good reading

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DR VINCENT'S TIPS

Clinical nutritionist, food scientist, antioxidant researcher Founder of Renovatio.

Tips for Easy Nutritious Meals Dr Vincent from Renovatio has provided the following tips for easy nutritious meals for all the family: Plan your meals and make a shopping list The old saying of “Don’t go shopping when you are hungry” is very much true. When we are hungry we tend to over buy. Not only that, because our brain sends the impulse of wanting instant gratification, we are more than likely to buy processed foods as opposed to fresh food that needs cooking. When you plan your meal and make a shopping list, you immediately reduce your propensity to buy heavily processed food items. It also saves you money by making sure you buy the ingredients you need in the right amount. You are reducing your grocery bills and food waste. Having a meal plan for the week also takes the pressure off you. Get your macros sorted .Macros mean your main food groups; in this context you need to focus on your carbs and proteins. Instead of just eating one type of carbs such as rice or potato, make your meals more interesting by trying quinoa, sweet potato or pumpkin. Complex carbohydrates help to regulate your blood sugar levels, keeping you and your family feeling full for longer, so it reduces the chance of snacking on unhealthy foods. Protein is also very important, whether you are a flexitarian, vegetarian or vegan. As much as possible choose lean protein such as chicken, fish and pork. If you are vegetarians, eggs are an excellent source of complete protein. For vegans, having a combination of protein sources help to ensure you are getting your essential amino acids - lentils, soybean, tempeh are some examples of good vegan protein.

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Multi-purpose ingredients When you cook for your family, using one ingredient for multi meals really saves you time and money while still meeting their nutritional needs. When you boil chicken, use the breast meat for tacos Tuesday, the dark meat as sandwich filling and the broth for chicken noodle soup. When you make steamed rice, make extra, freeze it and you can whip up a fried rice in no time. Save time and money with frozen veggies. With snap freezing technology, frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh veggies. They are also cheaper and usually come in pre-cut forms. Use fresh veggies for salads but when you use the veggies in pasta sauce, stir fry or as baked, try using frozen varieties. My favourite is frozen broccoli florets, they are easy, cheap and just as nutritious. Make healthy desserts. Having healthy desserts in your fridge or freezer can be the one thing that stops you from over indulging on ice cream or other sugary desserts. You can pre-make apple pies or crumbles and freeze them in portions. Pop them into the air fryer for an “instant” dessert. This is a healthier alternative to prepackaged frozen dessert because you control the ingredients, especially the sugar content. You can substitute some of the refined sugar with honey, maple syrup or activated phenolics powder. Hiding your veggies in dessert can also come in handy especially if you or your family doesn’t really like eating veggies. Zucchini cake, carrot cake (be careful with too much glazing), and chickpea brownies are some of the examples of healthier dessert alternatives. And yes, these can also be made ahead of time and frozen. Check out more about Dr Vincent and Renovatio at www.renovatio.com.au

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World According To Rita I've been running the ACE support network since 2014. I've been a support carer, long-distance carer, main carer and now I am helping my partner to care for his 95 year old mother. Caring isn't always pretty or nice, however, there are always pretty and nice moments.

Three Truths

It’s an old Chinese proverb and one that is very relevant on the aged care journey. There are three truths in every situation. Yours. Theirs. And the truth' It is really important to understand that this is a difficult time for everyone. Your aged loved one especially and at times they see things differently to you and others. If your aged loved one is receiving care from other sources – an aged care facility or in-home service or even a sibling/friend/volunteer there may be situations that arise where struggles occur. It can be for any reason – small or large, important or insignificant, about care or not – anything at all. Find out what happened, ask your aged loved one and the other person plus any witnesses. Don’t rely on one person’s opinion of what happened. Yes it is common sense however common sense can often fly out the window when you are dealing with an emotional situation and please let me assure you that caring for your aged loved one is a very emotional situation. With every situation we bring our past feelings, emotions and history. At times history doesn’t always serve us well, bringing angst and stress where there may be none causes trouble with a capital T. Take the time to find out what actually happened and how everyone is feeling, especially your aged loved one. Taking the time to get it right will save more than time in the future. Feelings once hurt take time to mend. People will remember how you made them feel long after the words are forgotten. If there is a problem sort it out – explain to your aged loved one the actions you are taking. They want to know you have their best interests at heart. They want to know that their concerns are being heard. It isn’t easy to be the person in the middle however it is a very important part of your caring role.

Check out my FB page for more information. Aged Care with Ease – Rita Merienne. You Matter to Me! 94 | THE CARER'S CHAMPION

Top Tip: Talk to everyone involved

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The Directory Products and Services

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The Directory Products and Services

Top picks for you Services See Me Aged Care Navigators F I NDI NG THE RI GHT SUPPORT F OR YOU AND YOUR L OVED ONES

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To advertise your product or service in the Service Directory contact Rita at agedcarewithease@gmail.com

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Charity We are really please support the following charities

DCaf Connections is a support network for families with dementia

Supporting people with MD

Shinning a light on organisations that provide support where needed!

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IN THE NEXT ISSUE: The Soka Tub - what else it is used for? Dynamic Physio-keep on moving Sparky's Candles Stress less Tony's Story of Caring for his loved one Plus so much more

Your Say!

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You Matter to me!

See you next time! Rita x Photography by @traceymurrayphotography

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Special give away - sign up to receive The Carer's Champion each month and you will go into a monthly draw for a copy of our book Tough...Tough Times...Tough Decisions drawn on the 30th of each of the next two months winners will be contacted by email.

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