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

🎙️ 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.

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