Identifying your needs

Identify your needs

How your body works

The saying goes that good health is not just the absence of disease. While there is no typical older person, people over the age of 70 may experience several health conditions at the same time but continue to do the things that are important to them. A combination of a person’s physical and mental resilience is a much better predictor of their health than the presence or absence of illness. Research shows that keeping your body moving is vital to maintaining good health, especially as we age. Using assistive products and making home modifications can: • Make daily tasks easier, so you have more energy. • Relieve the strain on your joints. • Reduce pain in your hands, hips and knees. • Give you the confidence to get out and enjoy your hobbies and social activities.

Feature fact

At least 50% of all age-related decline in muscles, bones and joints is caused by not using them enough, but it doesn’t end there! Studies of people over the age of 100, show that social and mental activity is also critical for health and longevity. Engaging in intellectual stimulation, like learning new things, having healthy relationships and participating in a supportive community, are all just as important as diet and exercise for ongoing health and wellbeing. What is wellness?

Support provided through the Commonwealth Home Support Program is underpinned by a wellness philosophy. A wellness approach focuses on positive changes that slow the impacts of ageing by improving health and wellbeing. This means building on an individual’s existing capacity and potential so they can optimise their physical, social and emotional abilities and live as independently and as connected to the community as possible. AT and home modifications are a key component of this approach. Both enhance accessibility and safety in your home by supporting you to stay independent.