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

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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