Nourishing Independence: How Nutrition Shapes Healthy Ageing Feat. Phillipa Spense

In this essential episode of Conversations with G & G, we sit down with Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) Pip Spence to dive deep into how the right diet can unlock better health, strength, and independence for older Australians. Pip reveals the critical difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist and the 3 vital red flags carers must watch for to spot early malnutrition. She provides practical, evidence-informed advice on boosting protein and calcium to prevent falls, manage conditions like diabetes, and ensure your loved one is eating for enjoyment and well-being.

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Visit our website for expert resources and insights to support and enhance your caregiving journey: 🌐 www.conversationswithgandg.com

🎙️In this episode, you will learn:

• Why nutrition has been an "under the radar" issue in aged care and the impact of the new aged care standards on food and nutrition
• The top challenge for older Australians: not eating enough, and why they actually need higher amounts of nutrients like protein and calcium
• The difference between a regulated Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and an unregulated nutritionist, and why an APD is essential for clinical care
• The crucial signs of malnutrition for carers to look for: loose clothes, ill-fitting jewellery, and chewing or swallowing difficulties
• How dietetic services are covered under the Home Care Support Plan and typically require no core contribution from participants (falling under clinical services)
• Why the APD assessment is holistic, involving a review of the fridge, medical history, medications, and linking clients to other allied health support (Physio, OT)
• The recommended protein target for older people and why dairy products are a 'superfood' for protein and calcium

👥 Who is this episode for?

• Family carers trying to make the best choices for their parent or partner
• Older Australians navigating significant life changes who want to maintain their independence and dignity at home
• Referrer networks (GPs and allied health professionals) needing resources to guide families toward safe and necessary services
• Employed carers and aged care workers seeking practical knowledge and better ways to support client wellbeing.

🌐 Learn more and trusted resources

• My Aged Care — practical guidance on services, assessments and finding providers: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/
• Carer Gateway — support, counselling and respite options for family carers: https://www.carergateway.gov.au

ℹ️ Who is Conversations with G&G?

Conversations with G&G is dedicated to supporting the people who support others. We are a podcast and content hub focused on in-home aged care, carer wellbeing, allied health, and disability support. We share real stories, practical education, and evidence-informed insights from the caregiving community, especially in the Geelong/Victoria regional context. Our mission is to inform, support, and empower those navigating the aged care system.

📺 What will you see?

• Updates and insights on the Support at Home Program
• Caregiver health and burnout prevention
• Mental health support for carers in Australia
• Fall prevention, mobility, and quality of life strategies
• Practical steps for due diligence when choosing a quality provider in the Geelong/Ballarat regions.

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