vivir

Episode 4: Graduate Pathways in Allied Health

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 02:02:00 GMT

Starting a career in allied health can be both exciting and overwhelming. This episode explores career pathways for graduates, the value of early support and why aged care offers a rewarding and meaningful long-term career.

Episode 3: Building Stronger Teams in Allied Health

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 01:55:42 GMT

Behind great care are strong, supported teams. In this episode, we discuss the importance of culture, development and leadership in building a workforce that can thrive in a growing and evolving sector.

Episode 2: Supporting Better Outcomes Through Allied Health

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 01:51:40 GMT

Allied health plays a vital role in improving quality of life across communities. This episode highlights how tailored care, collaboration and a people-first approach drive meaningful outcomes every day.

Episode 1: Delivering Care Without Boundaries

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 02:17:03 GMT

What does it take to deliver high-quality allied health care across diverse environments? In this episode, we explore how flexible service models and strong clinical support help ensure consistent care for clients, no matter the setting.

How Vivir Healthcare’s Dietitians can support your facility achieve aged care quality indicator milestones.

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 02:15:00 GMT

In the aged care sector, allied healthcare professionals play a crucial role in helping facilities and providers meet their 11 quality indicator goals. Among these experts are Dietitians, whose specialised knowledge in food and nutrition can have a positive impact to the health and well-being of care recipients. At Vivir Healthcare, we recognise the importance of nutritional care where our Dietitians are dedicated to supporting aged care facilities and providers around Australia in delivering exceptional care to older adults, helping to improve health outcomes and overall quality of life.

In this blog, we will explore the 11 aged care quality indicators and discuss how our Vivir Healthcare Dietitians can support all care recipients while enhancing your facility’s and service's overall performance.

Aged care Quality Indicator 1: Pressure Injuries

Dietitians are well placed in the prevention and nutritional management of pressure injuries by supporting and maintaining skin integrity. Pressure injuries are common in residential aged care, particularly for residents who are bed or chair bound and non-ambulant. Entirely preventable and combined with regular repositioning, pressure injuries can be prevented with optimum nutrition. Dietitians will focus on ensuring residents receive adequate protein, energy, micro nutrients such as vitamin C, E and minerals zinc and iron. These nutrients are equally important in the management of established pressure injuries. Dietitians can assist residents to increase their protein and energy intake through small dietary changes to support wound healing. Dietitians are also well placed to prescribe wound-specific supplementation. Some residents are more susceptible to pressure injuries and impaired wound healing if they have co-morbidities such as diabetes and/or chronic kidney disease. It’s important that a Dietitian is involved especially when co-morbidities are present as impaired renal function can worsen with high protein intake. A comprehensive nutrition assessment will ensure that appropriate recommendations are made for the individuals unique situation.

Aged care Quality Indicator 2: Physical Restraint

For residents that live with dementia and experience behavioural challenges because of the disease, at times physical restraint is used to protect themselves and others from potential harm. Residents who have poor nutrition and poor oral intake, may experience an increased rate of progression of cognitive impairment. Dietitians can assist staff and family to ensure residents nutrition requirements are met and work around challenging behaviours with food and mealtimes. Having a Dietitian involved in the care of residents with dementia may help to slow the progression of the illness and may reduce the likelihood of the need for physical restraint.

Aged care Quality Indicator 3: Unplanned Weight Loss

The main referral received in aged care for dietitians is for unintentional weight loss and malnutrition. Dietitians are at the forefront in prevention and management of weight loss. It is estimated that approximately 60% of residents in residential aged care are either at risk of malnutrition or are malnourished. Unplanned weight loss is a key indicator and risk factor for malnutrition. Unplanned weight loss can occur for multiple reasons in people residing in aged care homes and in the community including; complex medical conditions, hospitalisations and poor appetite to name a few. Dietitians assist to prevent and manage unplanned weight loss and malnutrition by prescribing high energy high protein diets, food-first approaches e.g. food fortification and if necessary, oral nutrition supplements. Dietitians also assist to educate and support care and kitchen staff to optimise residents' diets in the kitchen and/or at the table.

Aged care Quality Indicator 4: Falls and Major Injury

Most falls and major injuries, while common, are entirely preventable in aged care and in the community. Working alongside allied health professional, for example Physiotherapists , Osteopaths and Occupational Therapists , Dietitians make nutritional recommendations to compliment physical activity to promote optimal muscle mass to support strength and conditioning of skeletal muscle. Adequate nutrition, focusing on adequate protein and energy intake, through dietetic intervention combined with physical exercise can reduce the likelihood of falls and therefore subsequent major injuries such as fractures

Aged care Quality Indicator 5: Medication Management

Many residents in residential aged care often require nutritional supplementation as the ageing process requires increased nutrition requirements for particular nutrients. Dietitians can support and optimise nutrition intake through food first approaches which may help to reduce the reliance of expensive supplements or medications, decreasing the risk of polypharmacy.

Aged care Quality Indicator 6: Activities of Daily Living

Dietitians are well placed to support residents and clients with their day-to-day activities. Supporting optimal health to maintain independence for as long as possible. With respect to food and eating, Dietitians can make personalised recommendations to clients and residents around nutritious choices when food shopping, cooking methods and mealtime support.

Aged care Quality Indicator 7: Incontinence care

A common issue in residential aged care and in home care clients, incontinence can be debilitating and socially isolating. In some cases, Dietitians may be able to relieve the symptoms of incontinence especially if there are dietary triggers, lack of fibre or intolerances. For those that experience incontinence, there are increased fluid losses that require replacement. Dietitians can provide guidance on appropriate fluid intake to ensure adequate hydration.

Aged care Quality Indicator 8: Hospitalisation

As outlined above with respect to falls and major injury prevention and therefore subsequent hospitalisation, Dietitians also play an integral role in supporting residents and clients upon return home from hospital. In most cases, weight loss is an undesirable consequence of a hospital admission. Residents and/or clients that are hospitalised and are undernourished are at an increased risk of infection, wounds, increased length of stay and increased risk of death. Dietitians can help to correct and stabilise unplanned weight loss and hospital acquired malnutrition and wounds with targeted nutrition support through individualised nutrition assessments. Discharge plans often recommend dietetic input upon return home for those residents and/or clients identified with weight loss and or malnutrition during their hospitalisation.

Aged care Quality Indicator 9: Workforce

Dietitians make up the important network of allied health professionals that are underutilised in aged care. As outlined above, Dietitians can provide support and value addressing each quality indicator to support positive health outcomes for residents and clients. Dietitians support multiple staff across the aged care setting to enable them to build the capacity of their clients and residents. Vivir Healthcare boasts an experienced, passionate team of Dietitians across Australia, ready and eager to play a role in the care of elderly Australians.

Aged care Quality Indicator 10: Consumer Experience

Food is an important source of enjoyment for residents and consumers in their day to day lives. Dietitians are uniquely placed to bridge communication between staff, residents and clients to improve the overall dining and mealtime experience. Vivir Healthcare Dietitians regularly complete mealtime assessments and menu reviews in aged care to ensure compliance, enjoyment and nutritional adequacy. Food and eating is an integral part of life and it is up to everyone to enable the consumer experience and choice to be at the centre of their care.

Aged care Quality Indicator 11: Quality of Life.

As above, it has been addressed how Dietitians can enhance the consumer experience, particularly when it comes to food and mealtimes. Inevitably, there are times when nutrition focuses shift away from corrective and intensive interventions as illustrated under the above quality indicators to individualised, scalable recommendations to preserve and optimise quality of life. Dietitians are often called upon for weight loss the context of progression toward end-of-life care. Some residents and clients may require a palliative approach if they are living with a life limiting illness. Dietitians can ensure that foods and fluids provided align with the residents or client preferences going through this life stage. As with wound care and wound prevention, adequate nutrition is integral to supporting skin integrity to prevent the development of new pressure injuries or sores. Dietitians will make recommendations accordingly and apply dietary strategies to prevent further skin deterioration and improve overall quality of life.

Persist with Resistance - The importance of Resistance Training

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:15:00 GMT

“Have you been doing your exercises?” I wonder if you’ve been asked that question before. Perhaps it was posed to you by a health professional, it may have been posed to you by an inquisitive family member or it may be a question that you’ve posed to yourself?

In my role as a physio , I spend a lot of my week doing exercise with clients. Some sessions are focused on strength, some sessions are more targeted towards aerobic fitness, and other times we work on balance, range of motion or any number of other important metrics of physical health. I have clients whose sessions are completed sitting down in a chair and clients who walk for kilometres. I have clients who do hours of exercise every day, and clients who find it hard to get motivated. But in those wonderfully diverse experiences, one consistent theme is the focus and promotion of resistance training.

The role of resistance training in maintaining good physical and psychological health has long been testified to. And so, my goal in this article is not to tread over old ground or to walk a well-worn path - though we all need to walk it from time to time. I want this article to present the same message but from a different angle. I want to get practical. I want to give you three thoughts that I try to prioritise when implementing resistance training with clients:

The human body has potential.
Focus on strength and power.
The positive feedback loop.

Let’s dive in!

The Human Body Has Potential.

The human body has so much potential. Whether you’re 50 or 90. Whether you meet the step goals on your apple watch everyday or have never done a day of exercise in your life. You have potential. Research shows demonstrable improvements in quality of life, depression and muscle strength through the performance of resistance exercises. It shows improvement in functional activities like climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, getting dressed and catching the bus. It shows improvements in physical and psychological well-being. It shows improvements in pain.

Loss of muscle mass is a gradual process that, on average, begins after age 30 and accelerates after age 60 (Chang et al., 2019). We call this sarcopenia. This diagram shows the negative pathways that can result from sarcopenia and a loss of muscle mass (Hunter et al., 2004).

Fig 1. The negative pathways that can result from sarcopenia (Hunter et al., 2004).

But what we observe when looking at studies done on resistance training is an ability for the body to make improvements right up until our latter years. In numerous 8 week studies, significant increases in strength of participants’ lower limb muscles was observed (Krist et al., 2013), (Fiatarone et al., 1990). Similarly, in a study of women aged between 60-75, 3 groups performed resistance exercises for 12 weeks (Farinatti et al., 2013). One group trained 1x/week, the second group, 2x/week and the third group 3x/week. All groups showed improvements in strength at the end of their training.

So the first thought I try and prioritise is that the human body has potential - and resistance training helps to reach it.

Focus on Strength and Power.

The benefits of resistance training on daily life are numerous. From improved performance and athletic ability, to broader social connectivity and accessibility to the community.

The heart foundation recommends performing strengthening exercises at least 2x/week. Even low dose training, as simple as one resistance training session per week, can be seen to garner physical and psychological benefits. Every situation is unique and every context requires nuance but the NSW Government has a website which highlights Progressive Resistance Training for frailty. Their recommendation is:

2-3 sets.
8-10 repetitions.
1-2 exercises per major muscle group.
2-3x/week.

However, when preparing resistance training plans and selecting exercises, I like to include both strength and power based techniques. The strength aspect of that equation is more common and so I want to briefly examine what we will refer to as “speed-power” (Sayers et al., 2012). Let me explain.

For most daily activities, we require a certain amount of strength to perform them adequately - if I want to be able to stand up from a chair, I require a certain amount of strength in my quadricep and gluteal muscles to complete the task. However, we also require what has been called “speed-power.” That is, the ability to perform a task with both strength and speed (Sayers et al., 2012). It’s the difference between someone tripping and falling. In order to prevent oneself from falling to the floor after losing balance, not only do we require the strength in our legs to halt our body’s momentum but also the speed to move a body part into a position from which it can halt that momentum. This crucial element of speed-power is vital, and in combination with strength, can amplify the benefits of resistance training..

Practically speaking, in order to train in a way to help build our speed power we must perform movements in a quicker manner. And so when you’re setting up an exercise, think about doing the contraction phase of the movement quickly, performing the movement powerfully. In time, our goal is to have muscles that are not just strong but have the ability to help our body perform quick, powerful movements as well.

The Positive Feedback Loop.

The third thought I try and priortise is an idea you may have heard of before - that exercise in and of itself is self-reinforcing. When we achieve our goals, when we see our progress and more than this, when we experience the satisfaction of simply having completed our daily exercises, this begins a cycle. A positive cycle which leads to continued exercising. This is a position we aim to get our clients to reach. A position of self-management where exercise drives further exercise, and goal-accomplishing leads to further goal-setting, and even more goal-accomplishing. In my work, we believe in setting SMART goals. To summarise very briefly, we try to set goals that are:

Specific : aim to make your goals narrow and clear.
Measurable : decide what evidence will show that you are making improvement.
Achievable : make your goals realistically attainable.
Relevant : ensure your goals are consistent with your long-term outlook.
Time Bound : set a time-period to aim for reaching your goals.

Well, there it is. 3 thoughts that I try to prioritise when implementing resistance training with clients. I hope that this article proves helpful to you in some small way - whether informatively or perhaps even motivationally. I simply want it to act as an encouragement to persist. To keep persevering with your resistance training. To keep setting goals and working towards them.

If you would like to discuss this in a more 1-1 manner. Please feel free to give Vivir Healthcare a call on 1300 184 847. To make a referral to see our Physiotherapists, click here . Until then, keep persisting!

Reference List

Chang, S. F., & Lin, P. L. (2016). Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis of the Association of Sarcopenia With Mortality. Worldviews on evidence-based nursing, 13(2), 153–162.

Cruz-Jentoft, A. J., Bahat, G., Bauer, J., Boirie, Y., Bruyère, O., Cederholm, T., Cooper, C., Landi, F., Rolland, Y., Sayer, A. A., Schneider, S. M., Sieber, C. C., Topinkova, E., Vandewoude, M., Visser, M., Zamboni, M., & Writing Group for the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2), and the Extended Group for EWGSOP2 (2019). Sarcopenia: revised European consensus on definition and diagnosis. Age and ageing, 48(1), 16–31.

Farinatti, P. T., Geraldes, A. A., Bottaro, M. F., Lima, M. V., Albuquerque, R. B., & Fleck, S. J. (2013). Effects of different resistance training frequencies on the muscle strength and functional performance of active women older than 60 years. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 27(8), 2225–2234.

Fiatarone, M. A., Marks, E. C., Ryan, N. D., Meredith, C. N., Lipsitz, L. A., & Evans, W. J. (1990). High-intensity strength training in nonagenarians. Effects on skeletal muscle. JAMA, 263(22), 3029–3034.

Fragala, M. S., Cadore, E. L., Dorgo, S., Izquierdo, M., Kraemer, W. J., Peterson, M. D., & Ryan, E. D. (2019). Resistance Training for Older Adults: Position Statement From the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 33(8), 2019–2052.

Hunter, G. R., McCarthy, J. P., & Bamman, M. M. (2004). Effects of resistance training on older adults. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 34(5), 329–348.

Khodadad Kashi, S., Mirzazadeh, Z. S., & Saatchian, V. (2023). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Resistance Training on Quality of Life, Depression, Muscle Strength, and Functional Exercise Capacity in Older Adults Aged 60 Years or More. Biological research for nursing, 25(1), 88–106.

Kamiya, M., Ihira, H., Taniguchi, Y., Matsumoto, D., Ishigaki, T., Okamae, A., Ogawa, T., Misu, S., Miyashita, T., Ohnuma, T., Chibana, T., Morikawa, N., Ikezoe, T., & Makizako, H. (2023). Low-intensity resistance training to improve knee extension strength in community-dwelling older adults: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies. Experimental gerontology, 172, 112041.

Krist, L., Dimeo, F., & Keil, T. (2013). Can progressive resistance training twice a week improve mobility, muscle strength, and quality of life in very elderly nursing-home residents with impaired mobility? A pilot study. Clinical interventions in aging, 8, 443–448.

Rodrigues, F., Domingos, C., Monteiro, D., & Morouço, P. (2022). A Review on Aging, Sarcopenia, Falls, and Resistance Training in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(2), 874.

Sayers, S. P., & Gibson, K. (2012). Effects of high-speed power training on muscle performance and braking speed in older adults. Journal of aging research, 2012, 426278.

Turner, M. N., Hernandez, D. O., Cade, W., Emerson, C. P., Reynolds, J. M., & Best, T. M. (2020). The Role of Resistance Training Dosing on Pain and Physical Function in Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review. Sports health, 12(2), 200–206.

Valenzuela, P. L., Saco-Ledo, G., Morales, J. S., Gallardo-Gómez, D., Morales-Palomo, F., López-Ortiz, S., Rivas-Baeza, B., Castillo-García, A., Jiménez-Pavón, D., Santos-Lozano, A., Del Pozo Cruz, B., & Lucia, A. (2023). Effects of physical exercise on physical function in older adults in residential care: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. The lancet. Healthy longevity, 4(6), e247–e256.

Falls Prevention Support and Management: When to Seek Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Help

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 23:56:19 GMT

In Australia’s ageing population, falls prevention for elderly people cannot be overlooked. According to the most current 2023 Australian Government statistics, falls contribute to 43% of injuries leading to hospitalisation, making falls the top cause of injury related hospitalisations in Australia, with people aged 65 years and over being the most affected. As the impact of a fall can lead to loss of independence, confidence and impact overall well-being, understanding the role that Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists play in supporting people implement fall prevention strategies to prevent future fall incidents, and engaging in their expertise, can help improve the quality of life for you or your elderly loved one.

Why are older people more likely to experience a fall?

As we age, certain factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing a fall. This can include changes in eyesight, hearing, and decrease in physical activity levels can lead to muscle weakness and reduced muscle mass. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease can affect balance, potentially raising the risk of a fall. However, by working with a Physiotherapist or an Occupational Therapist, you can learn effective fall prevention strategies and receive recommendations for equipment to help reduce your risk of falling.

How Physiotherapists Help Prevent Falls

Improving Balance and Coordination & Strengthening Muscles - Physiotherapists specialise in assessing and improving an individual’s physical function and mobility, including balance and coordination. Through developing personalised exercises that will help you meet your goals, they will work with you to strengthen the muscles in your legs and core needed for stability, reducing the chance of losing balance.
Providing Gait Training - Physiotherapists also provide gait training, which focuses on analysing and improving the way an individual walks. With movement training, a Physiotherapist can correct these issues with exercises that will help develop a smoother, more stable walking pattern that will help prevent falls.
Recommending Walking Equipment - Physiotherapists can recommend the use of walking equipment such as walking sticks, or other mobility aids like a rollator . These devices can offer you or your loved one the comfort of extra stability and increased confidence and independence when walking.
Identifying Risk Factors and Implementing Falls Prevention Strategies - Physiotherapists conduct comprehensive assessments to identify potential risk factors for falls. By evaluating individual needs, they help clients minimise their risk by developing and implementing personalised falls prevention strategies tailored to enhance safety and mobility.

How Occupational Therapists Prevent Falls

Home Modification Assessments - Occupational Therapists are trained to identify opportunities to improve the environment in people’s homes and make it safer to live in and reduce some of the risks of having a fall. Through a Home safety assessment, Occupational Therapists can identify potential hazards in your home such as loose rugs, clutter, or poor lighting, all of which can increase the risk of falling. After the assessment, the Occupational Therapist could suggest practical home modifications to make your home safer, such as installing handrails, improving lighting, or rearranging furniture to create clearer walking paths to minimise fall hazards around the home.
Assistive Technology (Equipment) - Occupational Therapists can recommend assistive technology (equipment) to assist you with making your daily tasks easier which could also reduce the risk of falls. Assistive technology that Occupational Therapists may recommend include raised toilet seats, non-slip mats, or shower chairs all of which are designed to make daily living safer and minimise the likelihood of falls.
Personalised Fall Prevention Strategies - Occupational Therapists will also develop personalised fall prevention strategies based on you or your loved one’s abilities, daily routine, and if necessary, fear of falling. They focus on improving functional skills, like getting in and out of bed or navigating stairs, which are common areas where falls occur. By applying these safer techniques into your daily routine, this will build independence and confidence as well reducing the risk of falls in the process.

How Vivir Healthcare helps Residential Aged Care Facilities improve their Aged Care Quality Indicators

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

As a national allied healthcare provider, Vivir Healthcare has supported over 500 residential aged care facilities bring care to their aged residents since beginning our operations almost 25 years ago.

With the introduction of the Aged Care Quality Indicators in 2019, our Physiotherapists , Occupational Therapists , Speech Pathologists , and Dietitians are committed to working with our Residential Aged Care Facility Clients based all over Australia, and the older people they care for continuously improve their quality of service.

What are Aged Care Quality Indicators?

The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care introduced the National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program , also known as the QI Program, for the purpose of collecting valuable data on key areas of care that impact the health and well-being of older adults.

Commonwealth-subsidised residential aged care services are currently required to report their performance across 11 quality indicators every 3 months. The 11 quality indicators are:

Pressure injuries
Physical restraint
Unplanned weight loss
Falls and major injury
Medication management
Activities of daily living
Incontinence care
Hospitalisation
Workforce
Consumer experience
Quality of life.

Why do Allied Healthcare workers play an important role in helping Aged Care Providers meet their QI milestones?

Allied healthcare clinicians, including our Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapists , Occupational Therapists , Speech Pathologists , and Dietitians , are essential in helping aged care providers meet their Quality Indicator (QI) milestones. These allied healthcare professionals contribute to the overall well-being of aged care residents by addressing physical, cognitive, and nutritional needs, which directly impacts key QI areas like pressure injuries, falls prevention, activities of daily living, and quality of life. Their expertise in creating personalised care plans ensures that each older person receives tailored care sessions that are designed to promote better health outcomes and enhancing quality of life.

By delivering evidence-based practices, our clinicians, who are based all over Australia , help aged care providers improve their QI scores, ultimately leading to higher standards of care and satisfaction for both aged care residents and their families.

What we do at Vivir Healthcare to ensure our clinicians are supporting residential aged care facilities meet their QI milestones

There are many ways our Vivir Healthcare clinicians support residential aged care facilities meet their QI milestones. Taking a multidisciplinary approach through regular personal development sessions, our Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists and Dietitians understand the signs to look out for and when to refer clients to their fellow clinicians who can best support them to reach positive health outcomes. The result of this approach is that it helps the aged care facility maintain high standards of care, reduce the risk of undesirable health impacts to their aged care residents, and ensure continuous improvement in line with QI benchmarks.

Here some examples of how our clinicians work with aged care facilities in line with the quality indicators:

Our Physiotherapists will review and update mobility status of aged residents to prevent falls and related injuries. Our Dietitians will then make nutritional recommendations to compliment physical activity to promote optimal muscle mass to support strength and conditioning of skeletal muscle.
Our Physiotherapists will advise a variety of products for aged care residents who are experiencing frequent falls such as hip protectors, head gears, lo lo beds, and crash mats to help avoid serious injuries that can be caused by a serious fall.
Our Physiotherapists will recommend different types of mattresses or cushions to immobile/sedentary residents to avoid pressure related injuries. In addition our Dietitians will focus on ensuring residents receive adequate protein, energy, micronutrients such as vitamin C, E and minerals zinc and iron as these nutrients are equally important in the management of established pressure injuries.
Our Occupational Therapists will support aged care residents with their activities of daily living and in addition improve their quality of life by firstly assessing how they perform their daily activities and then suggest different types of gears or assistive aids that will help improve how they go about their day. This may include suggesting the use of a shower chair, a mobility scooter, or even modified cutlery for residents experiencing arthritic changes in hands.

If you are interested in learning more about how our Vivir Healthcare clinicians can best support your aged care facility in meeting your 11 Quality Indicators, please contact us today for a confidential discussion.

Why Physiotherapists Recommend the Mobility Walker / Rollator to Improve Mobility

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 01:45:00 GMT

For many people, maintaining our mobility is not just about getting from point A to point B – it is about the ability to perform daily activities with independence and confidence. However, as we age or face health challenges, maintaining mobility can become challenging. This is where mobility aids come in handy. Among the various types of mobility aids is the rollator – more commonly known among aged care residents and older people as a mobility walker. Used by seniors or those with a disability, the mobility walker / rollator certainly stands out as a useful and effective piece of equipment and are highly recommended by our Vivir Healthcare physiotherapists.

How Mobility Walkers/ Rollators Enhance Mobility and Independence

One of the primary reasons why physiotherapists recommend the use of a mobility walker to their clients after a mobility aid assessment is to enhance their mobility and independence. Designed to provide greater stability and support, the mobility walker makes it easier for individuals to move around safely within their home and in the community. Not to be mistaken to a walking frame, a mobility walker will include wheels (3, or 4 depending on the design), brakes and a cushioned seat. They are also designed to be pushed and allow the user to still move at their regular pace.

In addition, unlike traditional walking sticks, which offer minimal support, the mobility walker provides a broader base of support as well as even weight distribution. Physiotherapists will recommend a mobility walker / rollator when the user is seeking some more stability when walking. They are the best and most practical option over a walking frame when the user’s balance is not so much of an issue, or when they do not have the upper arm strength to lift a walking frame. The inclusion of hand brakes also allows users to control their pace and stop securely, reducing the risk of falls. This added safety feature makes rollators an ideal choice for those who may feel unsteady on their feet. However before recommending, physiotherapists will consider and assess if the user can properly steer the rollator and use the brakes.

Why Mobility Walkers / Rollators Encourage Physical Activity

By enhancing mobility, the mobility walker encourages more physical activity. Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for physical and mental health, particularly as we get older. But when mobility becomes a challenge, many seniors are hesitant to engage in physical activity, fearing they may not be able to keep up or may even injure themselves. This can lead to an inactive lifestyle, which in turn can exacerbate other health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and depression.

By making walking easier and more achievable, the mobility walker / rollator allows users to walk longer distances more quickly, participate in social activities, and enjoy outdoor spaces with greater confidence. This not only helps maintain physical health but also improves mood and overall mental well-being .

Indeed, the mobility walker / rollator is more than just a piece of equipment for getting around – it is a ticket to freedom that offers independence and extra support when mobility becomes a challenge. If you or someone you know requires assessment for a mobility aid, our Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapists can help. Get in touch by making a referral today .

How Occupational Therapists Help the Ageing Population Live at Home Longer

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered how do Occupational Therapist’s assist the ageing population live at home for longer? Occupational Therapists (OT’s) play a crucial role in helping elderly individuals live safely and comfortably at home for as long as possible by working closely with them to assess their physical, cognitive, and lifestyle needs through various strategies including:

1. Home Assessments:

OT’s will conduct home visits to identify potential risks or hazards that may often be overlooked. This may include inadequate lighting, slippery floors, navigating staircases or any obstacles that pose a risk to one’s safety.

2. Adaptive Equipment and Home Modification:

After delivering a home modification assessment , OT’s will suggest and recommend equipment that will assist in making everyday activities easier. This may include shower chairs, over toilet aids, modified kitchen cutlery or installing grab rails or ramps.

3. Teaching new ways:

OT’s will assess how individuals are currently performing daily activities and make suggestions to make the task safer and easier. This may be focused around conserving energy, falls prevention and pain management.

4. Fall Prevention:

OT’s will provide exercises to improve an individual’s balance and strength with the goal to prevent falls . We will also provide strategies when completing everyday activities to make them safer.

5. Cognitive Support:

For individual’s having difficulty with memory or cognition, OT’s will offer new strategies and tools to assist with an individual’s organisation, memory, problem solving.

6. Community Engagement:

OT’s will explore different options to allow individuals to continue to actively engage in their community whilst being mindful of their medical conditions and limitations.

7. Supporting Carers/ Family:

OT’s will also provide any necessary training and education to carers and family on how to assist their loved one in the best possible way

The above listed are not limits to what an Occupational Therapist can do, merely a snapshot of how we can assist the ageing population live in their own homes for longer . Now if that didn’t make sense, maybe you are numbers person like myself, and this is the data you want to see:

According to the Australian Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), approximately 60% of Occupational Therapists in Australia are involved in aged care services (community health/ home care and residential facilities).
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) noted that around one-third of Australians aged 65 and over experience a fall each year. Research indicates that OT services can reduce the risk of falls by up to 30%.
The AIHW reported that in 2022, about 140,000 older Australians were receiving Home Care Packages (HCP), with occupational therapy being a significant component of these services.
The Australian Occupational Therapy Journal noted that elderly individuals receiving OT services experienced significant improvements in activities of daily living (ADLs) and mobility. These studies showing up to a 20% improvement in these areas.
The Australasian Journal on Ageing highlights that OT interventions involving meaningful activities and social engagement can improve mental health outcomes, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in elderly individuals by up to 25%.

These statistics reflect the significant role of occupational therapy in supporting elderly individuals in Australia, highlighting its impact on functional improvements, falls prevention and mental health.

For more information or to enquire about Occupational Therapy services, contact the Vivir Healthcare team today .

Enhancing Quality of Life: The Role of Aged Care Physiotherapy

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 06:00:00 GMT

As we get older, maintaining our physical health and mobility becomes increasingly important for our overall well-being. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in aged care, where physiotherapists provide tailored treatment and management plans that help seniors maintain their independence, reduce pain, and improve their mobility. In this blog, we will explore the various ways aged care physiotherapy can benefit older adults and why it is an essential component of promoting safety and improving quality of life.

Understanding Aged Care Physiotherapy

Aged care physiotherapy involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of physical impairments, disabilities, and conditions related with aging. As every individual has unique health needs and goals, aged care physiotherapists conduct thorough assessments to develop personalised treatment plans that address specific challenges and objectives. These plans often include exercises, manual therapy, education, and lifestyle advice to promote physical health and functional independence. This individualised approach ensures that each person receives the most effective care, maximising their potential for improvement and well-being.

Key Benefits of Aged Care Physiotherapy

Improved Mobility and Flexibility and strength: One of the primary goals of aged care physiotherapy is to enhance mobility and flexibility. As people age, they may experience stiffness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty with movement. Physiotherapists use targeted exercises and techniques to improve joint mobility, muscle strength, and overall flexibility, allowing seniors to move more freely and confidently.

Pain Management: Chronic pain is a common issue among older adults , often resulting from conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and musculoskeletal disorders. Physiotherapists employ various pain management strategies, including manual therapy, heat/cold therapy, and specific exercises, to alleviate pain and improve function. By addressing the root causes of pain, physiotherapy helps seniors enjoy a better quality of life.

Fall Prevention: Falls are a significant concern for the elderly, leading to serious injuries and a decline in independence. Aged care physiotherapy focuses on fall prevention through balance training, strength exercises, and education on safe movement techniques. By improving strength, coordination, and balance, physiotherapy helps reduce the risk of falls and related injuries.

Increased Independence and Confidence: Aged care physiotherapy encourages seniors to maintain their independence and perform daily activities with greater ease. By improving physical function and mobility, physiotherapy helps older adults feel more confident in their ability to carry out tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, and self-care. This increased confidence translates to a better quality of life and a more active, fulfilling lifestyle.

Indeed, aged care physiotherapy is a vital component of elderly care, offering numerous benefits that enhance physical health, mobility, and independence. By addressing the unique needs of older adults, physiotherapy helps seniors enjoy a better quality of life and remain active participants in their communities.

If you or a loved one could benefit from aged care physiotherapy, consider reaching out to Vivir Healthcare where one of our qualified physiotherapists will work with you or your loved one to help you achieve your healthcare goals.

How to find an Occupational Therapist near you with telehealth

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 01:35:59 GMT

Have you ever typed in “Occupational Therapist near me” and disappointed with the search results? Maybe it’s time to consider online occupational therapy sessions through telehealth.

The Benefits of Telehealth for Occupational Therapy

Telehealth has revolutionised the way we access allied healthcare, making it easier to connect with many allied healthcare specialists , including Occupational Therapists , from the comfort of your home. With telehealth, location is no longer an issue, and makes it easier for you to find an Occupational Therapist who perfectly matches your needs, even if they’re not in your local area.

One of the biggest advantages of telehealth is its convenience. You can schedule sessions that fit your routine, eliminating the need for travel, which can be especially beneficial if you have mobility challenges or the lack of transportation. Telehealth is also helpful if you are suffering from severe mobility impairments, chronic pain, immunodeficiency, or recovering from major surgery that is limiting your mobility.

Also, telehealth can offer a more personalised experience. During online sessions , Occupational Therapists can assess your home environment in real time, giving them insights that they might not gather during in-person clinic visits. This allows them to tailor their recommendations to your specific living situation, enhancing the effectiveness of your therapy.

What to Look Out For in an Occupational Therapist

Finding the right Occupational Therapist is crucial for successful treatment. Here are some key factors to consider:

Experience: Ensure that the Occupational Therapist has experience in treating your specific condition. You can usually request this through making a referral or by going through a national allied healthcare provider, like Vivir Healthcare who has several Occupational Therapists working for them. An Occupational Therapist with a strong background in the area you need support in is more likely to provide effective care.
Communication Style: Effective communication is vital in any clinician and client relationship. During an initial consultation, pay attention to how the Occupational Therapist listens to your concerns and explains their approach. You should feel comfortable and confident that they understand your needs and can help you reach your health goals.
Availability and Flexibility: It is important to find an Occupational Therapist whose availability matches your schedule. With telehealth, there is often greater flexibility in scheduling sessions, so be sure to provide your preferred availabilities when completing your referral.

Knowing Your Health Goals

Before starting your search for an Occupational Therapist, it’s important to clearly define your health goals. Are you looking to regain independence after an injury, or seeking support in modifying your home so you can continue to live in it safely as you get older? Do you need support in managing a chronic condition? Knowing your health goals will not only help you find an Occupational Therapist with the right expertise but also ensure that the therapy sessions are focused and effective.

Once you’ve identified your goals, communicate them clearly. This will help them tailor their approach to meet your specific needs. A good Occupational Therapist will work collaboratively with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that aligns with your objectives.

By engaging in telehealth, you will more likely find an Occupational Therapist near you that will have a positive impact on your health and well-being. By considering telehealth , you expand your care options and gain the flexibility to choose an Occupational Therapist who truly meets your needs.

Want to learn more about Vivir Healthcare’s Telehealth services? Click here

What is a telehealth appointment and how does it work?

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 06:50:34 GMT

In recent years, telehealth appointments in Australia have emerged as a convenient and accessible way for people to access quality healthcare services. This innovative approach is especially significant in the field of allied healthcare, where providers like us at Vivir Healthcare can deliver physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and other essential allied healthcare services to our clients online.

What is a telehealth appointment?

A telehealth appointment is a healthcare consultation that does not need be conducted face to face but instead uses digital communication tools – commonly a phone call, or online using a video conferencing tool to have the appointment.

This method of seeking healthcare support and advice has grown to be very popular because not only is it beneficial for individuals who may not live close by to a healthcare facility that offers the support they need, but it also allows the right clinician to be available to best support the individual reach their goals.

Telehealth appointments are also beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, are vulnerable to illness or anyone seeking the financial convenience and flexibility of receiving care from home.

Online physiotherapy sessions

Our Physiotherapists can conduct online physiotherapy sessions where visiting clients in person may not be possible.

As per any face-to-face physiotherapy appointments, our physiotherapist will complete an initial consultation which includes gathering information about the individual’s medical history, current symptoms, and concerns. With the support of the individual’s family member or carer, holding the laptop or tablet that is being used for the video call, our physiotherapists will also complete a visual assessment online by observing the individual’s movement, posture, and function. The final part of the assessment will include completion of some outcome measures using digital forms or standardised tests which are used to document and track the individual’s progress. The initial consultation is also when our physiotherapists will set realistic and achievable goals in collaboration with the individual so that the treatment or injury management plan can be personally tailored and is aligned to the individuals’ goals.

Following the initial online physiotherapy consultation, follow-up sessions will be scheduled with the client via telehealth. During these sessions, the physiotherapist will go through personalised advice on self-management, treatment options for pain and may even provide demonstrations of exercises appropriate for the individual to do. A written home exercise programme will also be given to the individual which they will be able to follow in their own time.

Regular follow-up telehealth appointments will also be scheduled during which our physiotherapist can monitor exercises real time via video and provide feedback, or if required modify the physiotherapy exercises to suit the client. As the individual makes progress, the exercise regime would be adjusted to ensure the exercises are suitable for the level the individual is at. Our physiotherapist will continue to schedule regular online physiotherapy sessions until the individual reaches their goal and feels confident in their ability to complete self-management strategies by themselves.

Online occupational therapy sessions

Our online occupational therapy sessions work very similarly to our online physiotherapy sessions with the goal to best support the individual in maximising the individual’s functional independence at home so they can continue with their daily activities as independently as possible.

With the use of video telehealth, the occupational therapist can review the client within their home environment and make an assessment on how this may be placing them at risk or limiting their independence – for instance, a hard to access shower or steps without rails, and make recommendations for home modifications based off some simple measurements and photos. Occupational therapists can also make an assessment of the person and if any equipment would assist their safety, independence or quality of life at home. For example they may observe the individual having difficulties standing up or sitting down from an armchair and may lead them to recommend a riser or lift chair.

In the case of assessment of equipment provisions, it is really important for the individual to actively trial new equipment that would benefit them to ensure it really meets their needs and alternatives are considered. This can also be done via an occupational therapy telehealth trial session that includes the individual, their family or carers, the occupational therapist calling in via video call and a representative from an equipment supplier. This can be arranged either at home (if the client is house bound or you want to check a scooters ability to manage the local hills) or at a showroom (so the individual can try out a range of lift chairs). With the assistance of collaborative equipment supplier these trials are just as effective via video call as they are face to face.

Telehealth appointments with in-person support

We understand that technology can be challenging for some, which is why we've designed our Telehealth To You (TH2U) program . This telehealth service ensures individuals receive the best of both worlds: online healthcare appointments with our clinicians, supported by in-person assistance from our Allied Healthcare Assistants. In this program, our clinicians will conduct appointments virtually and one of our Allied Healthcare Assistants will visit the individual at home during the telehealth session and will bring a device that is internet-connected. They will offer technical support to help navigate the virtual appointment and provide clinical assistance to the leading clinician as needed, including taking measurements.

How Occupational Therapists Can Help Older People with Their Home Modification Needs

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 06:00:59 GMT

As people get older, their home living environments may require adjustments to ensure safety, accessibility, and continued independence. To achieve this they will need the support of an Occupational Therapist to visit their home and conduct a Home Assessment to recommend possible home modifications. The Occupational Therapist will be using their expertise to assess, recommend, and facilitate necessary home redesign changes with the goal to maximise their client’s functional independence at home so they can continue with their daily activities as independently as possible. In this blog we will cover how Occupational Therapists can help older people with their home modification needs.

Understanding the Role of Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists are allied healthcare professionals specialising in helping individuals perform daily activities with greater ease and safety. Their focus extends beyond physical health to include accessing environmental factors that impact a person’s ability to function independently, safely and effectively. When it comes to home modifications, Occupational Therapists assess the living space, identify potential hazards, and recommend changes tailored to the individual's needs and capabilities.

Home Modification Assessments

The first step an Occupational Therapist takes is conducting a thorough assessment of the home environment. This involves evaluating various aspects of the living environment, such as:

Entrances and Exits: Are there steps or thresholds that could cause trips or falls? Is there a need for ramps or handrails?
Bathrooms: Are the shower and toilet easily accessible? Could grab bars or a walk-in shower enhance safety?
Kitchens: Is the layout conducive to safe cooking and food preparation? Would adjusting counter heights or adding pull-out shelves be beneficial?
Living Areas: Are there clear pathways free of obstacles? Would rearranging furniture or adding more lighting improve mobility and visibility?
Bedrooms: Is the bedroom layout appropriate? Could the addition of bedside rails or adjustable beds assist with getting in and out of bed?

Based on the assessment, the Occupational Therapist will then provide personalised recommendations to address the client’s specific challenges they are having at home. These may include:

Installing Grab Bars and Handrails: These provide support in areas like bathrooms, staircases, and hallways, reducing the risk of falls.
Improving Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for visibility. Occupational Therapists may suggest brighter bulbs, additional light fixtures, or motion-sensor lights.
Modifying Bathrooms: This could involve recommending minor modifications such as rails, small ramps, non-slip flooring or different shower heads. When warranted, the more major bathroom modifications of a ‘walk in’ or ‘level access’ shower is advised following review by a more specialised OT and with the input of a builder.
Adjusting Kitchen Layouts: Recommendations might include relocating frequently used items to accessible areas or installing pull-out shelves.
Rearranging Furniture: Ensuring there is enough space to move around safely, especially for those using mobility aids.
Installing Ramps: For homes with steps, ramps can be crucial for wheelchair accessibility or for those who have difficulty with stairs.

Home modifications are a critical component of enabling older adults to live independently, safely and improve their quality of life. Occupational Therapists bring invaluable expertise in assessing and addressing the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that their homes are safe, accessible, and supportive of their daily activities. By working with an Occupational Therapist, older adults can enjoy a higher quality of life and greater peace of mind knowing that their living environment is tailored to be a good fit for them as they grow older.

To schedule a home modification session with one of our Occupational Therapists, contact our team at Vivir Healthcare today . We’re here to help you create a safer, more comfortable living space.

Nutrition for the whole family: Our Dietitians answer your frequently asked questions

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 00:18:18 GMT

Nourishing our bodies by eating a nutritious diet is one of many things we can do to live happy and healthy lives. Our passionate and food loving team of Dietitians are highly trained in the dietetics space and provide tailored dietary advice and support care plans for each client of all ages across Australia to ensure that they have a good relationship with food no matter their age or disability.

We sat down with Jane, one of our Dietitians based in Melbourne to answer frequently asked questions they often get from clients and their families about nutrition and how to promote healthy eating habits for our children.

Important nutritional needs at different life stages

What are some key nutrients that are important for each stage of life, from childhood to old age?

Jane: There are many key nutrients that people should focus on getting enough off at different stages of life.

Iron – Iron is an important nutrient, especially for young children. Iron is important for growth and development as it helps move oxygen around the body.
Protein – Protein is important for all stages of life but is particularly important for older adults. Protein in older adults helps with maintaining muscle mass and strength. Having an adequate protein intake later in life has shown to reduce the risk of falls, improve quality of life and assists with maintaining independence.
Calcium – It is important to have an adequate calcium intake throughout your life. Calcium helps build and maintain strong bones through childhood and adolescence. It also helps build healthy teeth. Calcium also plays an important role in many other parts of the body such as muscles, nerves and blood.
Fat – It is important to have an adequate amount of ‘healthy’ fats in your diet at all stages of your life. Fat plays an important role in providing the body with energy and provides essential fatty acids which your body is not able to produce so needs to get them from the food you eat. It also helps with producing important hormones in your body. Including the right amounts of ‘healthy’ fats in your diet has been shown to decrease your risk of certain diseases such as coronary heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

What are the benefits of a balanced diet for overall health and well-being?

Jane: From a young age, it is important to have a balanced diet to promote health and well-being . Following a healthy diet ensures that the body receives essential vitamins and minerals necessary for growth and development and reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In the short-term, a healthy and balanced diet can contribute to improving energy levels and your mood and reduce the risk of developing an infection or illness. Ultimately, prioritising a balanced diet from an early age is essential for both immediate health benefits and long-term disease prevention.

Promoting healthy eating habits

What are some tips for encouraging children to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables?

Jane: Be a good role model! Setting a good example is key to getting children to eat vegetables. It is also beneficial to be persistent and patient. It is important to keep offering your child vegetables even if they initially refuse to eat vegetables. Another good strategy is to get your child involved with food preparation and cooking meals with vegetables. Children are more likely to want to eat the meal if they have helped prepare it.

How can families navigate the challenges of eating out while maintaining a nutritious diet?

Jane: Families can still eat out while maintaining a healthy diet. To curb the challenges of ordering the unhealthy option on the menu, families can:

Order a meal with vegetables included, such as a stir fry or chicken or fish with a side salad or vegetables.
Order a side of vegetables to have with the main meal if the meal doesn’t already have vegetables included.
Encourage water as a drink over soft drink and fruit juices.
Look for grilled, steamed, boiled and baked options as they are generally healthier meal options over foods that are fried.

However, if you only occasionally eat out and it isn’t a regular event, it is fine to let your child have the less healthy option such as fried chicken with chips, especially if you eat healthy options at home most of the time!

What are some easy strategies people can try to reduce their intake of sugar and processed foods?

Jane: There are many simple strategies people can implement to reduce their sugar and processed foods intake including:

Prepare in advance. Set out time to go food shopping and get ingredients to prepare healthy family meals and snacks for the week ahead.
Have healthy snacks available in your home and on hand when you are out so you are not tempted to reach for processed food or food high in sugar. Good healthy snack options are fruit and plain yoghurt or cheese with crackers.
Limit intake of sweetened drinks, such as soft drinks, fruit juices and cordial, which can be a big contributor to high sugar intake in children. Water is best!
Instead of adding sugar to cooking, look for other ways to add flavour such as from spices like cinnamon or ginger.

What are some nutritious and easy-to-prepare meals that the whole family can enjoy?

Jane: Eating healthy as a family doesn’t need to be time consuming. Look for meals that include a lean protein source, lots of vegetables and a healthy carbohydrate option, such as pasta. Healthy meal options may include stir fries, spaghetti bolognaise with added vegetables or a side salad, tuna pasta bake with added vegetables, fish, chicken or beef tacos with lots of vegetables.

Addressing common nutritional challenges

What are the best ways to address common nutritional deficiencies seen in the elderly?

Jane: Older adults are at risk of becoming malnourished which means they do not have the proper amount of nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals and will often have unplanned weight loss and muscle wastage. For older adults who have poor nutrition, they tend to become sick more often and take longer to recover from illnesses.

Ways for older people to sustain a healthy diet is to optimise nutrient rich foods that are high in energy and protein. Energy found in food assists with maintaining weight and protein helps with maintaining muscle mass. Additionally, supplement drinks can provide additional nutrients for older adults when they are not able to consume enough food or meet their energy and protein requirements through eating.

for older adults who do not have a big or good appetite having smaller meals more frequently is encouraged with snacks between meals. This can be thought of as six small meals throughout the day and can be easier than managing a few bigger meals per day. Prioritise nourishing fluids, for example having milk over water to increase the overall energy and protein intake for the day.

What are some tips on overcoming picky eating in children?

Jane: Overcoming picky eating in children can be challenging, but with patience and consistency, it is possible to encourage healthier eating habits. One key strategy is to be persistent in offering healthy food options. Even if a child initially refuses a certain food, continue to present it in different forms and at various meals. Sometimes, it can take multiple exposures to a new food before a child becomes comfortable with it.

Another effective approach is to involve your child in the food preparation process. Allowing them to participate in activities such as washing vegetables, mixing ingredients, or even choosing a new fruit or vegetable to try at the grocery store can spark their interest in the food they are helping to prepare. This hands-on involvement can make them more excited to taste and enjoy the food they helped create.

Role modelling healthy eating behaviours is also very important for children to follow at a young age. Children often mimic the habits of their parents and caregivers, so demonstrating a positive attitude towards healthy eating can influence their own attitudes and preferences. Eating a variety of nutritious foods and showing enthusiasm for trying new foods can encourage your child to follow suit.

How Dietitians work with other Allied Healthcare Professionals

How can Speech therapy and Dietetics work together to manage swallowing difficulties in clients?

Jane: Speech Pathologists may need to recommend a client has thickened fluids to reduce the risk of aspiration. Dietitians can work with the Speech Pathologist to recommend thickened fluids that the client enjoys ensuring they are not at risk of dehydration.

The Dietitian can also make recommendations for the appropriate food that a client or resident can consume based on the Speech Pathologist’s plan. The Dietitian can ensure the food is nutritious and appealing and provide practical strategies to ensure the food is safe for the client to consume.

What role does dietetics play in supporting physiotherapy and occupational therapy?

Jane: Dietitians play an important part in the client’s physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions by supporting the client in getting the right nutritional diet. Nutrition is very important for people in the recovery and rehabilitation process, and it is important for older adults to avoid undernutrition and sarcopenia (the breakdown of muscle) during the recovery process. Usually, one of the main issues with older adults is eating enough nourishing foods and this is even more of an issue during the recovery process.

Adequate intake of protein and energy throughout the day helps ensure muscles are provided with the right nutrition to be able to recover and re-build and prevents further undesirable breakdown. So it is important for the Dietitian to work with the Physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist as resistance training exercises have also been shown to help reduce muscle loss and increase muscle strength.

What does a dietetics sessions look like in the home care and residential aged care services space?

Jane: A Dietetic session will look like:

The dietitian will take a detailed medical history, including taking information on the clients past medical history, blood test results and medications.
Information on the persons current food and fluid intake will be recorded, along with information on their likes and dislikes or any current nutrition supplement drinks they may currently be taking.
A nutritional diagnosis and goal will then be created in line with the client’s needs and expected outcomes.
A personalised plan with food-first interventions will then be created with the client to help them reach their goals and optimise their health through nutrition.

Our Dietitians work across the Home Care , Residential Aged Care , and NDIS space and are also accessible via telehealth. If you are interested in working with our Dietitians who are based all over Australia, complete our referral forms which can be found here .

Speech Pathology: Navigating Communication Challenges at Every Age

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 01:31:42 GMT

In Australia, it is reported that 1.2 million Australians have a communication disability. And with communication a fundamental human right, we feel that it is important to raise awareness of the communication challenges people in our community face and how our dedicated team of speech pathologists at Vivir Healthcare empower people to ‘communicate their way’! To celebrate Speech Pathology week coming up this August, our Speech Pathologists have provided fascinating insights on the role of a speech pathologist and how they support their clients and their families with their communication challenges – no matter their age.

The role of a Speech Pathologist in supporting people with communication challenges is important.

Speech Pathologists, also known as Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) or Speech Therapists, are skilled allied health professionals who specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders. They work with individuals across all age groups to address a wide range of issues, from speech and language development in children to communication challenges following stroke or injury in adults. Their goal is to help individuals improve their ability to communicate effectively, which is crucial for social interaction, education, independence and overall quality of life.

There are some common misconceptions about speech pathology:

“Speech Pathologists only work with speech problems.” - In reality, Speech Pathologists address a wide range of issues, including language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders.
“Only children need speech therapy.” - People of all ages can benefit from speech pathology services.
“Speech Therapy is just about talking.” - Speech Therapy encompasses a wide range of areas, including listening, understanding, reading, writing, and using language effectively.
“Once therapy starts, progress will be quick.” - Therapy is a process that takes time, patience and consistent effort from both the client and the Speech Pathologist.

Speech Pathology interventions differ between children, adults, and the elderly.

Across different age groups, communication challenges vary significantly and speech pathology interventions as a result are tailored to the specific needs of each age group.

In children, the common issues our speech pathologists address include speech delays, articulation disorders, stuttering, and language development disorders. Children might struggle with forming words correctly, using language appropriately, or understanding others. Their therapy sessions often involve play-based activities and interactive exercises to engage them and make learning fun. Early intervention is key for this age group, focusing on developing foundational speech and language skills.

Adults can face communication difficulties due to health conditions or injury like stroke, traumatic brain injury, or progressive neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. These can result in aphasia (difficulty with language), dysarthria (difficulty with speech), and cognitive-communication disorders. Age-related conditions such as dementia and hearing loss can also impact communication.

Interventions for adults might include more structured speech exercises aimed at relearning skills or compensatory strategies to manage communication challenges. Therapy is often more intensive and specific to the type of communication disorder they are experiencing.

For elderly people, speech therapy may focus on maintaining their current abilities and slowing the progression of the disorder. Techniques often include memory aids, cognitive exercises, and strategies to enhance communication despite physical limitations.

Family support plays a key role in supporting the speech pathology interventions for their loved ones.

Family members play a crucial role in supporting speech pathologists and the overall success of speech therapy on their loved ones. Their involvement can provide emotional support, reinforce strategies learned during therapy sessions, and create a supportive environment for practice. For adults and the elderly, family members can assist with therapy exercises and help apply communication strategies in real-life situations, ensuring continuity and effectiveness of treatment.

For children especially who participate in speech therapy sessions, parents can integrate language-building activities into daily routines. Our speech pathologists recommend that following five strategies for parents to support their children's communication skills:

Read Aloud: Reading to your child regularly helps build vocabulary and language comprehension.
Engage in Conversations: Encourage your child to express themselves, ask questions, and describe their experiences.
Play Together: Use playtime to introduce new words and concepts in a fun, relaxed setting.
Model Good Communication: Demonstrate clear and effective communication by speaking slowly, clearly, and using proper grammar.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child’s efforts and successes to build their confidence and motivation.

Speech pathologists work with other allied healthcare professions to provide the best care to their clients.

Speech Pathologists often collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to provide holistic care. For instance, they may work with Dietitians to address issues related to swallowing disorders, such as dysphagia . Dietitians can recommend appropriate dietary modifications and nutritional supplements while Speech Pathologists focus on improving swallowing function. This teamwork ensures that clients receive comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of their health and well-being.

Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists (OTs) also often team up to provide comprehensive care for children, especially those with complex needs. Speech Pathologists assess communication skills, speech, language and swallowing, whilst OTs evaluate motor skills, sensory processing, and daily functional abilities. Together, they get a full picture of the child’s needs. They set shared goals, like improving social communication and sensory regulation to ensure the child’s therapy session addresses multiple developmental areas. By working together, they provide well-rounded support that enhances their development and empowers families to support their progress and growth.

Progress in Speech Pathology is measured through regular assessments and observations. Success is often determined by achieving specific, individualised goals set at the beginning of therapy. These might include improvements in speech clarity, language usage, or swallowing function. The timeline for improvement varies greatly depending on the nature and severity of the disorder, the age of the client, and their level of engagement in therapy. Generally, clients can expect to see gradual improvements, with milestones being deservingly celebrated along the way!

Our Speech Pathologists love what they do

One of our Speech Pathologists has shared their client success story which demonstrates the integral work Speech Pathologists around the world do.

“A referral was received to see a woman with “swallowing changes” due to her Parkinson’s disease . On initial assessment, the client spoke of rapid change to her voice, she had developed stutter like speech behaviours. She was finding it was getting increasingly difficult to communicate, and people had difficulty understanding her. When eating, she felt like foods took a long time to go down.

On our initial appointment, I talked through simple diet modifications that would improve her swallow safety. Knowing the importance of food and quality of life, I talked her through how we can modify her favourite foods – for example using slow cooking techniques, ensuring foods are well sauced, eating lots of fish.

In our second appointment I introduced her to techniques that aimed to improve her fluency (stutter free speech) and her voice strength. By the end of our third session, the client was able to apply these strategies for up to 30 second speaking tasks. I played her a recording of her voice at initial assessment, and a recording of her voice at the third session. The look on her face as she listened and heard the difference – it made me heart sing. I knew she felt moved by the change. It is why I love what I do.”

If you are looking for a Speech Pathologist to support you or your loved ones, please get in touch with us today by filling out our referral form ! Our Speech Pathology team can be reached all around Australia through our telehealth service – so no matter where you call home or if you have trouble travelling to visit a Speech Pathologist in person, our Speech Pathologists will be available to come to you.

Physiotherapy for Pain Management: Part 2 – Our Success stories and approach to pain assessment and treatment

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 07:30:00 GMT

In part two of our Physiotherapy for Pain Management blog series, we take a deeper dive how physiotherapists approach pain assessment and treatment and whey they may often take an interdisciplinary approach to support a client in managing their pain. We again sat down with Vivir Healthcare’s Clinical Coordinator for Physiotherapy, Jyoti Chatla to explore the important role physiotherapy plays in pain management where she also shares one of her client success stories! If you have not ready part one of Physiotherapy for Pain Management blog series, you can read it here.

What role does client education play in physiotherapy for pain relief and prevention?

Jyoti: Client education is one of the major components and an integral part of chronic pain management. Pain is a complex, unpleasant feeling and is highly subjective in nature and has strong emotional response associated with it. Due to our experiences with pain with day-to-day living, we form ideas and concepts in our mind which can be dependent on our beliefs, upbringing, or our surroundings and our past experiences.

Clients suffering with chronic pain have several questions related to their condition and need reassurance and education to address their concerns. It is also not uncommon to see clients with chronic pain having ideas or misconceptions such as exercise is harmful, or physical activity is going to aggravate pain, pain is not treatable with exercises, and their condition is not treatable and will need surgery. At times, clients with chronic pain learn to associate pain with movement as being harmful to their body and develop avoidance behaviours in anticipation of pain or risk of reinjury. This in turn leads to a vicious cycle where a client due to their fear of pain with movement avoid movements and activities leading to inactivity and ultimately risk of greater level of disability. This has an impact on their physical state, and it also affects their mental health, sleep, and lead to chronic fatigue.

Client education starts from explaining to the client about the complex nature of chronic pain which extends beyond the timeline of normal tissue healing and is not generally associated with a physical injury or illness. Education and information about why pain with movement is not always damaging or harming their body and does not mean further risk of reinjury or increase in pain is a crucial step for clients with chronic pain. With education, we aim to impart the knowledge to the client that it is ok to move and gradually increase their tolerance of pain to movement by gradually exposing their body to more movement with time to avoid the downward spiral of inactivity. Gradually with exercise and activities, their threshold for pain improves and they will be able to move more with less pain. Certainly, client education is important to develop the client’s positive attitude towards exercise and physical activity.

In addition, education about the importance of activity pacing, self-management strategies such as use of heat and cold packs, relaxation, use of proper body mechanics can improve confidence of the client to help them manage their pain.

Can you share a specific success story where physiotherapy has made a significant difference in pain management for one of your clients?

Jyoti: One of my clients, a 50-year-old lady, used to work as an admin staff and generally led a sedentary lifestyle. She had been experiencing chronic lower back pain for several years. The pain was affecting her ability to perform daily living activities, including work and leisure activities. She had tried various treatments, including medications and chiropractic adjustments, but she never experienced any long-term relief.

She eventually decided to see a Physiotherapist after her friend recommended her to try this treatment because of her own positive experience.On subjective examination, her pain was localised in the ow back area. There was no radiation of pain to her extremities. She didn’t have pain with rest but sitting for more than 15 minutes or standing and walking more than 10 mins were painful for her. On examination, we identified that the client had muscular imbalances, poor posture, and lack of core strength. She had asymmetric tightness in the muscles in both her extremities and had weakness in her posterior chain muscles.

Her treatment was a combination of manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations to alleviate muscle tension and to improve joint mobility. Additionally, we prescribed her specific exercises to strengthen her core muscles, posterior chain muscles and exercises to improve flexibility in her tight muscles. We started the strengthening programme at a very low intensity as much as she could tolerate and progressed to body weight exercises in a functional pattern.

As her pain levels improved, we commenced the client on a walking programme. We requested her to maintain a diary and record her daily walks, distance/ time she could manage to walk, symptoms that she experienced and how long the symptoms lasted. We educated her with self-management strategies such as bracing her core muscles, taking rest pauses to recover from pain. She was given a home exercise programme that she could complete at home focusing on strengthening and flexibility exercises. Her walking duration improved gradually as her confidence and motivation levels improved and she was able to walk 45 minutes to 1 hour without any complaints of pain.

We also checked her desk and seating set up at work and gave her some recommendations to make the setup ergonomically sound . She was educated about the importance of avoiding prolonged static postures since our muscles and joints are designed to move and not to stay in one position for long duration. We gave her a handout with pictures of exercises that she could do when she was in her office, which were easy and could be performed in an office setup without specific equipment required.

The client continued to maintain her regular walking programme and all the exercises that were given to her. She was not experiencing pain anymore and was happy with the overall outcome she had. She was also looking forward to engaging in activities that she has previously avoided due to fear of discomfort.

How important is interdisciplinary collaboration (e.g., with Occupational Therapists, Dietitians) in managing pain through physiotherapy?

Jyoti: For the best outcome for clients, it is important for a Physiotherapist working with clients with chronic pain to collaborate with other allied health professionals such as Occupational Therapists and Dietitians for overall holistic approach to treatment.

Chronic pain has a strong impact on clients’ lives and their well-being. Due to complexities associated with pain, clients can experience difficulties with their daily living activities, their participation in the community and even their occupations and leisure activities. Occupational Therapists can complete a thorough assessment of a client’s activities, their occupational demands, and the impact of their surroundings and environment on their experience of pain. Due to their expertise and knowledge about adaptive equipment and assistive technologies, Occupational Therapists can work closely with the clients suffering with chronic pain and identify any modifications or adaptive equipment that can make day to day tasks easier for the client. They can also recommend assistive devices / technologies and suggest and make changes to their environment to enable the client to engage in their activities of daily living (ADLS) which promotes independence and therefore feelings of satisfaction amongst clients.

There is a growing body of scientific evidence which has shown that poor nutrition, unhealthy dietary behaviours, and sub optimal nutrition play a strong role in occurrence, development, and prognosis of chronic pain. Clients with chronic pain have several challenges due to their mobility and strength, mental health, irregular sleep habits due to which access to healthy nutritious meals can be a challenge. A well-balanced diet is important for a client with chronic pain to gain benefits from physical activity and exercises. In addition, clients with chronic pain are at risk of various lifestyles diseases and comorbidities associated with reduced mobility, due to which diet is important. Dietitians can work closely with the client, understand their challenges, their requirements and recommend strategies and dietary recommendation personalised to their needs.

How does Vivir Healthcare approach pain assessment and treatment planning during initial client consultations?

Jyoti: Vivir Healthcare Physios complete a comprehensive assessment on their initial appointments. The initial client consultation starts with subjective examination where the clinician asks the client questions about the difficulties they are experiencing in their day-to-day activities, their occupation and leisure. Physiotherapists will collect in depth information from their client about their pain such as the location of pain, severity, type of pain, the aggravating and relieving factors, and changes in levels of pain with time of the day and if the pain is associated with any other kinds of symptoms. Baseline level of pain is documented using pain scales which is used to monitor during follow-up sessions to understand how the treatment planned for the client is helping them. Subjective assessment also includes understanding how pain is affecting the clients’ ADLS and their participation in the community in their occupation, hobbies, and leisure. This information helps the us physiotherapists to get a better understanding of their client’s problem.

The next step in the initial consultation includes completing a thorough physical examination, where we will assess client’s range of motion, strength, balance, their gait. Physiotherapist will also complete some special tests to identify musculoskeletal causes of pain. Standardised outcome measures are recorded at baseline which are re-assessed periodically by the physiotherapist to ensure that the treatment plan designed by the physiotherapist is effective at bringing about some change in client’s symptoms and their function.

Finally, Physiotherapists sets goals in collaboration with the client. Based on the above information and examination, Physiotherapists then develops a personalised treatment plan for the client which includes patient education, manual therapy, exercises. Treatment plans are individualised as per the clients’ goals, their baseline levels of function and exercise capacity and are reviewed and monitored periodically, are adjusted as required to ensure client is progressing safely and has the best possible outcome. Physiotherapist will also give you self-management strategies and a tailor-made home exercise programme with pictures and instructions to help client in between the sessions with physiotherapists. The physiotherapist will guide you through a graded approach of return to activities.

What advice do you have for individuals seeking physiotherapy to manage their pain but are unsure about where to start?

Jyoti: If you are suffering with chronic pain, you should consider seeing a Physiotherapist. In Australia, Physiotherapists are first contact practitioners and therefore you do not usually need a referral from a GP before you see a Physiotherapist.

However, if you would like to claim Medicare rebate, you will need to consult a GP to get a referral via Chronic disease management plan (CDM) or Enhanced Primary care programs (EPCs). CDMs or EPCs is a Medicare rebate system to help refund part of the cost of attending a private allied health service. Each eligible individual can claim 5 sessions per calendar year.

If you have private health insurance, check your policy if it covers Physiotherapy treatments.

If you are over 65 years of age you may be eligible for government funded aged care services, you need an assessment to find out if you are eligible for these fundings. Using this funding you can have access to Physiotherapy services.

If you are already on some form of aged care funding, speak to your case manager who can arrange Physiotherapy services for you.

The next step is to find a Physiotherapy service provider that you would like to use. Vivir Healthcare offers mobile Physiotherapy services and come to your home for all sessions . The first session is an initial consultation during which the physiotherapist will talk to you and take full history of your condition to understand your condition, complete a physical examination and set goals in collaboration with you. Based on this information, they will design treatment plan that will be individualised to you as per your circumstances and goals. The subsequent sessions will be follow-up sessions with your Physiotherapist focussing on the treatment, who will closely work with you and monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment if required to ensure you get the best possible outcome.

If you would like to book in one of our physiotherapists to help you manage your pain, fill out our referral form here .

7 Wellness and Financial Benefits of Clinician Home Visits – Our Home Care service

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 03:47:50 GMT

With the Australian population living longer and fuller lives, the desire to maintain our independence and way of life in our homes and communities is growing. Our Vivir Healthcare Home Care service recognises the importance of this for our health and well-being and the meaningful roles our Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists and Dietitians play in providing tailored healthcare to their clients in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. Below we explore the benefits of clinician home visits that bring peace of mind to clients who find it difficult to access necessary care.

1. Convenience and Accessibility

For many individuals, especially the elderly, those with mobility issues, medical conditions, or no mode of transportation, traveling to and from medical appointments can be a challenge. Our clinician home visits eliminate this barrier as they will happily travel directly to your location to deliver you a targeted care plan with sessions. This convenience reduces the physical and emotional strain on you and your family, ensuring that you receive timely and consistent care without the added burden of transportation.

2. Financial Savings

Home care services can also offer financial benefits. Regular visits to healthcare facilities can accumulate substantial costs in terms of travel expenses and time off work for yourself and even your family members who accompany you to your session. Home visits reduce these indirect costs, making it a more cost-effective option. Additionally, by focusing on preventive care, early intervention, and home modifications, our home care services can reduce the need and chance of more expensive hospital admissions and emergency room visits.

3. Enhanced Personalised Care

One of the foremost benefits of allied health home care services is the level of personalised care clients receive. When clinicians visit their clients at home, they can more easily tailor their approach and sessions based on the individual's living environment and daily routines. For our Occupational Therapists , identifying potential home modifications is easier, allowing for customisations based on clients’ movements around their home, enhancing safety and independence. Our Physiotherapists can develop exercise routines that integrate with the client’s home layout and complement their daily routine and lifestyle. These affordances, only possible through a Home Care service, ensure that the therapy provided is specific to the client’s needs and practical for everyday life.

4. Peace of Mind for Families

Clinician home visits provide peace of mind for family members who may worry about their loved ones’ ability to access, travel to, and receive adequate care. Knowing that professional, compassionate, and personalised healthcare is being delivered at home allows families to feel more secure about their loved one's well-being. Having sessions at home also encourages greater and more active family involvement and provides opportunities for our clinicians to educate your loved ones about your progress.

5. Improved Health Outcomes

Receiving care at home often leads to better health outcomes. Our clinicians can closely follow their clients' progress in the comfort of their own homes and implement any necessary adjustments while addressing environmental challenges. Clients are more likely to adhere to treatment plans when they are comfortable and less stressed. Home visits by healthcare professionals can also help in the early detection of potential health issues. For example, a Dietitian might notice signs of malnutrition or dehydration during a routine home care session that might otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive approach can prevent minor issues from becoming major health problems, thus improving overall well-being.

6. Enhanced Quality of Life

The goal of our home care service is not only to address immediate health concerns but also to enhance the overall quality of life for our clients, empowering them to reach their goals. Our clinicians help clients maintain their independence, which is crucial for their mental health and well-being. For example, our Speech Pathologists can provide therapies that improve communication skills, fostering better social interactions and reducing feelings of isolation. Our Occupational Therapists can help clients engage in meaningful activities within their community, promoting a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

7. Comprehensive Support

Our allied health services offer a holistic approach to client care. By having a team of diverse specialists such as Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, and Dietitians, our clients are reassured that they will receive comprehensive support that addresses various aspects of their health and well-being. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all health needs are met in a coordinated and efficient manner.

At Vivir Healthcare, our Home Care services are dedicated to bringing high-quality Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology, and Dietetics services to the comfort of your home. By offering personalised, convenient, and comprehensive healthcare, we aim to support our clients like you in leading healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives.

Interested in making an enquiry or referral about our Home Care services ? Fill in our form here .

5 Fun Activities Residential Aged Care Facilities can do to Celebrate Christmas!

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 00:45:00 GMT

Christmas is a delightful way to bring the joy of the holiday season, especially for elderly residents in aged care facilities . Engaging in festive activities not only uplifts spirits, but also provides therapeutic benefits across various aspects of healthcare and well-being. In this blog, we outline five fun Christmas activities and explore how they can complement the resident’s physiotherapy , occupational therapy , speech pathology , or dietetics treatment and management plans.

1. Christmas Craft Workshop:

Organising an afternoon craft session where residents can make Christmas decorations like ornaments, wreaths, and holiday cards are a fantastic way to stimulate creativity and dexterity. Arts and craft activities can enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination where engaging in repetitive motions like cutting, colouring, and folding strengthens hand muscles and improves joint flexibility. Crafting also promotes problem-solving and cognitive functioning – encouraging residents to follow steps and use various tools, aiding in daily living skills. Be sure to have Christmas songs in the background for residents to sing along too as well!

2. Christmas Themed Baking Day:

Hosting a baking day where residents can participate in making and decorating Christmas cookies will be a guaranteed hit! Baking provides an opportunity to educate about healthy eating and Dietitians can modify recipes to include healthier ingredients and toppings, teaching residents about nutritious choices while still enjoying festive treats. Family and loved ones can visit to lend a hand too, encouraging conversations and feelings of togetherness and belonging whilst making fruit mince tarts, Christmas fruit cake, and decorating Christmas themed short bread.

3. Holiday Music Sing-Along

There is no better way to celebrate Christmas in July than breaking out the Christmas records and singing those traditional Christmas carols like ‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Silent Night’, and ‘Come All Ye Faithful’. Singing familiar songs can evoke memories and emotions, helping residents with cognitive impairments connect to their past, as well as helps with speech rhythm, articulation, and breath control. If you have percussion instruments on hand too like castanets, triangles, and bells, this will make the sing-along extra fun as well, and will involve residents who struggle to use their voice. Music can be very therapeutic and uplifting for the elderly, and who knows, you might discover a talented opera singer that are waiting for their time to shine!

4. Christmas Bingo:

Creating a special Christmas-themed bingo game with festive images or words instead of numbers is an enjoyable and inclusive activity. Bingo is a popular game that many elderly people enjoy and can easily participate in. Bingo stimulates cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and visual scanning. It is also a great social activity that promotes engagement and interaction. Calling out and listening for words can enhance auditory processing and speech comprehension. Residents can also practice articulation when calling out "Bingo!".

5. Christmas Photo Booth:

Setting up a festive photo booth with props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and Christmas-themed backdrops creates a fun, inclusive and interactive experience. Taking photos and printing them out as keepsakes can also bring joy and a sense of belonging. Posing and interacting with props can be a gentle form of physical activity, improving balance and mobility. Be sure to also invite the resident’s family too, creating treasured memories for the little ones to remember!

Certainly, these five Christmas themed activities will not only bring festive cheer to your aged care residents, but also provide holistic therapeutic benefits. By integrating fun with functionality, you can ensure that your Christmas is a celebration enhances the well-being of all participants.

My Physiotherapy Career Journey with Vivir Healthcare - Matt W

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 05:27:43 GMT

My career journey with Vivir Healthcare began in 2020 when I started working as a Sydney-based contractor physiotherapist . And yes, you’re thinking correctly – NSW and Sydney experienced the first of many lockdowns pretty soon after! Despite the restrictions, I continued to provide essential home care services and even had the opportunity to explore telehealth . It was truly a privilege to work with clients during this challenging time when they couldn't have any other visitors.

In 2021, I had the opportunity to transition to a full-time role in home care. One of the highlights was regularly seeing several clients in their 90s, helping them improve their balance and mobility. One remarkable client I supported was still climbing up and down 16 stairs at the front of her house at the age of 98!

That same year, I took on the role of clinical lead for our home care clinicians in NSW and ACT. This position allowed me to support and guide new clinicians joining the team as they navigated the complexities of the home care environment. Additionally, I began working in a hybrid role, balancing homecare with residential aged care . This combination was enriching, providing a broader perspective on assessing and managing aged clients in different settings. Building relationships with clients through multiple weekly visits led to engaging conversations about politics, sports, crosswords, and many delightful stories which I really enjoyed as well.

The years 2021 and 2022 were significant for my career growth, with multiple roles offering numerous opportunities to expand my skills. Although juggling time between various responsibilities was challenging, it was equally rewarding to see both clinical results and personal development. To support my work and feed my passion and interest in musculoskeletal injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, osteoarthritis, exercise therapy, and Parkinson’s disease, I pursued further training in aged care, hydrotherapy, Sports Level 1, and Parkinson's disease.

In 2023 and 2024, my primary focus has been in the home care space. During this period, I have had the privilege to support a wide variety of clients from all walks of life — from an incredibly motivated post-stroke client who did 100 squats in response to my request for 10, to a client who loved to sing. My work has ranged from setting mobility goals, such as walking to the local shops, to functional goals like standing up from a chair, and addressing various conditions including post-surgery recovery, lower back pain, and Parkinson's disease. It has been a joy to work with such diverse individuals and to witness their progress.

I love working with and alongside people as they age, building relationships, offering support, and helping to make life easier and more manageable. It is one of the many reasons why I enjoy working at Vivir Healthcare. The opportunity we have to assist people when they are feeling vulnerable and to witness the joy that comes from their progress is incredibly fulfilling.

My journey with Vivir Healthcare has been very rewarding so far, and I look forward to continuing to grow and make a positive impact in the lives of my clients.

We are always on the lookout for amazing Physiotherapists with a passion for 'making lives better' to join our team right around Australia! Check out all our roles on our jobs page here.

Physiotherapy for Pain Management: Part 1 - Strategies for a Healthier, Active Life

lucia.fong@rgfstaffing.com.au (Camilla Yang) — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:06:30 GMT

As National Pain Week approaches in July, now is a good time to shed light on the crucial role physiotherapists play in supporting individuals in managing their pain. Pain, whether acute or chronic, can be a debilitating force that impacts every facet of an individual's life. It can restrict mobility, impede on daily activities and independence. In part one of our Physiotherapy for Pain Management blog series, our Clinical Coordinator for Physiotherapy, Jyoti Chatla discusses the role physiotherapy plays in the management of pain and the key strategies and lifestyle changes we can all do to lead a healthier, more active life that is free of pain.

How can physiotherapy manage chronic pain conditions?

Physiotherapy plays as vital role alongside other medical and allied health interventions in the management of chronic pain.

Chronic pain is multi-factorial in nature and extends beyond the normal expected timeline of tissue healing. Chronic pain has a complex biopsychosocial nature to it and physiotherapists are trained to work with clients experiencing it.

Physiotherapists with thorough assessment can identify underlying factors that could be contributing to chronic pain. Some of the factors which can be improved with physiotherapy include core and global muscle weakness, muscle tightness, reduced range of motion in joints due to restrictions in intra-articular movements, and tightness in surrounding structures of the joints. Clients with chronic pain also go through a phenomenon known as fear avoidance behaviour where due to their pain experience, they avoid movements with the anticipation of triggering their pain. Physiotherapists can work with clients to help them by gradually exposing them to the movements that they may be fearful and avoidant of due to anticipation of pain using pacing strategies, graded exposure to exercises and client education.

Also, there is strong evidence in literature that suggest how exercise and physical activity helps with pain perception, mood elevation and has overall mental health benefits which are crucial in management of chronic pain conditions.

What are some common techniques or modalities used in physiotherapy for pain management?

Treatment modalities depend on underlying impairments that the clinician may have identified during their assessment and are tailored to each client.

Some treatment modalities such as manual therapy, dry needling, soft tissue release are used alongside exercises such as progressive strengthening training, balance, range of motion and flexibility, Pilates and core exercises, and hydrotherapy.

How do personalised exercise programs play a role in alleviating pain and improving mobility?

Every individual is different and have different factors that can contribute to their chronic pain. A physiotherapist’s role is to complete a thorough assessment to identify underlying impairments that could be contributing to a client’s difficulties in their daily activities, participation in the community, work, and leisure. Based on the individualised assessment, the physiotherapist then designs a client specific treatment plan with intensity and frequency suitable for the client – taking into consideration their baseline pain, fitness and exercise capacity, and most importantly their goals.

Physiotherapists can monitor the client’s symptoms and modify the exercises to be more suitable. Physiotherapists ensure that the intensity of exercises are progressed incrementally to ensure the client is progressing, without risk of injuries or compromise in the form of exercise.

Are there specific lifestyle changes that are recommended to clients for pain management?

There are many lifestyle changes that physiotherapists recommend to clients to help them manage their pain including:

Active lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy active lifestyle is crucial for clients with chronic pain. It is a well-known and established fact that the lack of physical activity is one of the major causes of various cardiovascular diseases. Clients with chronic pain are at risk of gradual decline in their level of activities and therefore are at risk of developing various comorbidities. Simple exercise such as brisk walking for 30-45mins per day is very effective. Walking is low impact and low intensity exercise and does not need any additional training or specialised equipment due to which it is easily accessible. There are also various other low impact exercises that can be practiced indoors such as cycling and Tai-chi. Physiotherapists can design a simple home exercise programme which can be easily completed at home. If a client has membership to aquatic centres and enjoy water-based exercises , they can go to the pool and practice under water walking and exercises at safe height. If client enjoys group-based exercise programme, they can enquire in their local gym, councils or local volunteer groups who run such group exercise classes.
Adequate sleep: Rest is very important for the body to recuperate and recover. It is during sleep that our body undergoes healing, restores energy, repairs cells and tissues amongst many other important functions.
Optimum nutrition and hydration: Maintaining optimal nutrition is important for the body to have adequate resources to help repair, recover and restore.
Stress management and relaxation: Stress and low mood has been linked to how an individual with chronic pain experiences or perceives pain. If a client with chronic pain is experiencing stress or has difficulties with their symptoms it is important that they see their GP and talk to them about their symptoms and seek professional help.

What are the key strategies or approaches that promote a healthier, more active life for individuals managing pain through physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy offers a more holistic approach to management of pain. Physiotherapists with thorough assessment aim to identify the root causes / factors that are contributing to a client’s pain and design an intervention in the form of physical exercises, client education and functional rehabilitation to promote a more active lifestyle and gradual return to function.

Physiotherapists may use the below approaches:

Hands on techniques: Physiotherapists use various hand on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue manoeuvres, to help manage pain, improve joint mobility, and promote relaxation.
Individualised exercises: Physiotherapists develop tailor made exercise program for the client to improve their function using exercises targeting muscle strength, endurance, flexibility, joint and tissue mobility, balance, and proprioception.
Exercise progression, monitoring, and adjustment: Physiotherapists monitor client symptoms and document their progress and accordingly adjust the exercises to suit individual needs and goals. Exercises are progressed gradually with a graded approach so the client’s tolerance to movement improves.
Client focussed goal: Treatment designed by the Physiotherapist is focussed and based on individual client goals. They will set SMART goals in collaboration with the client. This helps make the client feel more motivated and focussed when they make progress throughout their rehabilitation process and achieve their goals.
Functional rehabilitation: Physiotherapists includes exercises that follow functional patterns and body movements required to perform activities of daily living such as sit to stand, standing on one leg, reaching, lifting, walking to a certain distance, and climbing stairs. It often involves task specific training in a safe and supportive environment under the guidance and support from the physiotherapist.
Client education: Physiotherapists promote active lifestyle through client education. The aim of client education is to empower the client with the knowledge of the nature of their pain, understand the tissue healing process and the role of activities and exercise in promoting healing and tolerance to pain with movement. Physiotherapists ensure that the client understands and has self-management strategies so that they can manage their own pain using techniques such as activity pacing, use of proper body mechanics, relaxation, and other modalities such as a heat and cold pack. Education will help clients feel more confident and empowered when they feel they are in control of their pain and have the right tools and strategies when they need to manage their pain.

If you would like to book in one of our physiotherapists to help you manage your pain, fill out our referral form here .

My Journey from Dietitian to Clinical Coordinator: A Reflection

Thu, 16 May 2024 11:45:15 GMT

As I sit back and reflect on my career journey with Vivir Healthcare over the past five years, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible opportunities and experiences that have shaped my professional growth in the Dietetics space within the allied healthcare industry . It all began in September 2019 when I landed my first role with Vivir Healthcare after graduating from university as a contractor Dietitian based in Melbourne. It was both exciting and nerve-wracking. Little did I know then that this is how my unique career journey would unfold.

In those early days, I gradually built my caseload, working up to 24 hours. I divided my time between residential aged care facilities and home care , where I connected with residents and clients, learning from their life stories and experiences. Each interaction was a chance to make a difference, however small, in their lives. I really enjoyed the variety in my workload and learning new skills in those service areas Vivir Healthcare delivers.

By December 2021, I was offered a part-time position — which I was grateful for. This stability allowed me to deepen my connections within the Vivir Healthcare clinical workforce, engage and connect with more wonderful clients across aged care facilities and home care, and further expand my skill set with Vivir’s evolving learning modules .

In early 2022, I was approached to cover a maternity leave role as a Clinical Supervisor for the Dietetics team. This new position expanded my responsibilities significantly. My hours doubled to 48 hours a fortnight, split between clinical caseload management, and providing clinical support and guidance to fellow dietitians. This role marked a pivotal moment in my career, where I not only honed my clinical skills but also took on leadership and management responsibilities which I really enjoyed.

The experience I gained during this maternity leave cover prepared me for my next career progression opportunity . In October 2023, I transitioned into the role of Clinical Coordinator for dietetics — a newly created position within Vivir Healthcare. In this role, I provide clinical support and direction to our dietetics team based all around Australia, and trained in aged care, home care, disability , and paediatrics, while also contributing to business development initiatives from a dietetic perspective to ensure we are providing the highest level of dietetics care to everyone we support. It's a role that allows me to blend my passion for patient care with strategic business insights.

What I cherish most about my role is the daily interaction with our wonderful and talented dietetics team. I thrive on fostering an environment where everyone's ideas are valued, and we work collaboratively to enhance our services and grow as a cohesive unit. The insights and reflections shared by my fellow Dietitians, as well as my Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, and Speech Pathologist colleges within the Vivir Healthcare business inspire me and continually push me to evolve both personally and professionally.

Absolutely one of the most rewarding aspects of my career is the relationships I've built with residents in aged care and clients in home care. These individuals have entrusted me with their health and well-being, and I consider it a privilege to advocate for them. Their life stories and shared wisdom enrich my work, reminding me of the profound impact us Dietitians can have in even the smallest ways.

Looking back, I realise how far I've come — from a newly graduated Dietitian to a Clinical Coordinator guiding a dedicated team towards clinical excellence. Vivir Healthcare has been instrumental in my growth as a Dietitian, offering me opportunities that have shaped me into the allied healthcare professional I am today. I am grateful for the trust they have placed in me and excited for what the future holds.

We are always on the lookout for amazing allied healthcare professionals with a passion for 'making lives better' to join our team right around Australia! Check out all our roles on our jobs page here.

Career Progression & Development Opportunities at Vivir Healthcare - Interview with our Clinical Services Manager Tyler Burrowes

Fri, 10 May 2024 11:36:16 GMT

At Vivir Healthcare we are very passionate about career progression and development for our clinicians. We believe in creating an environment of continuous learning, providing our clinicians with practical experience in different areas of allied healthcare support services , and championing learning from one another’s disciplines is what makes us unique. We sat down with our Clinical Services Manager Tyler Burrowes to learn more about his personal career development journey, from locum clinician to becoming a member of the Vivir Healthcare senior leadership team.

1. Can you walk us through your journey at Vivir Healthcare, highlighting key career progression points and development opportunities you've experienced that has help you in your current position today as Clinical Services Manager?

In March 2019 I joined Vivir Healthcare to work clinically as a locum across regional NSW and Queensland. Then in June 2019, I settled in Canberra - initially for six weeks, then three months, then permanently. In June 2020, I took an opportunity to become ACT Clinical Team Leader, and then in March 2021, I became a Regional Operational Manager for Southern NSW. I soon realised that Business Development wasn’t for me, and in June 2021 I joined Vivir’s Shared Services Team where I provided centralised support to the Clinical team and also led our COVID task force to promote safe clinical practice during a very challenging period.

After a great two years, I left in November 2022 to take a role at the Department of Health. But I quickly missed my contribution to Vivir and shortly after leaving, I decided to combine my day-to-day role at the Department with a weekend project advisory role with Vivir – trying to improve scheduling efficiencies and data integrity. In April 2023, I was given an opportunity I couldn’t refuse, and returned to Vivir to work as a Project Lead – where I advised and consulted independently across the Vivir Healthcare business. Then in February 2024 – I moved back to the Clinical team as our Clinical Services Manager.

But throughout the past five years, I have always taken the opportunity to work at Regional Facilities across NSW, Victoria and SA; and pick-up locum work in areas that are hard to service. As recently as six-weeks ago, I was in Young, NSW – filling in for a clinician on Annual Leave and had the best weekend providing care to residents I hadn’t seen in a very long time!

2. What are your responsibilities in your current role?

As Clinical Services Manager, my job is to lead our Department of nearly 500 clinicians to provide safe and evidence-based clinical services that meets government legislative requirements and the assessed care needs of care recipients across Australia. I directly lead a team of 5 brilliant Coordinators (Diet, Speech, OT, Physio and Residential), who oversee our service lines and are dedicated to making Vivir Healthcare an even better place to work.

3. How have your roles and responsibilities evolved over time at Vivir Healthcare? Can you provide examples of projects or initiatives you've led or been involved in?

Significantly. As a team leader, I tried to bring stability to the Canberra team through continuity of scheduling and a stable work pattern. Then in my Shared Services role and the COVID-19 task force, I looked at trying to improve the safety and efficiency of service during a challenging time. Now in Clinical Services, I am responsible for safe and effective practice, and I take that obligation (and opportunity) extremely seriously. I want Vivir Healthcare to be a place where clinicians feel empowered and supported to provide evidence-based care, whilst growing their clinical and professional expertise.

4. What specific skills or competencies have you gained or enhanced during your tenure at Vivir Healthcare?

In my early days, geriatric care and assessment. Working in the Aged Care sector was very new to me, but I was supported by an excellent team leader in Canberra – and I was empowered to make clinical decisions safely and diligently. More recently, I’ve learned how to effectively manage a project from design to after-care as well as system integration and architecture.

5. Vivir Healthcare is known for its commitment to employee learning and development. Can you discuss any development opportunities you pursued while at Vivir Healthcare? How have these experiences shaped your approach to leadership?

Outside of my role with Vivir, I completed a Master of Public Health majoring in Indigenous Epidemiology between 2018 and 2021. While working in the Shared Services team, I was able to apply my epidemiological knowledge to real-world scenarios with management of our COVID task force.

Specific to Vivir, I have tried to attend every Personal Development (PD) session held! From pressure care, to supplements, swallowing, documentation, ADHD and wheelchair prescription – I feel like I have been to everything. I like that Vivir promotes PD cross-disciplinary, allowing every clinician access to PD that can grow their skills. In the next couple of weeks, we’ll have another remote PD on Child Protection, which I am looking forward to learning more about and seeing many of our clinicians at.

6. One of our company perks is flexible work. How do you prioritise your work-life balance?

Flexible work means different things for different people. For me, I love being at the office. I worked from our parent company RGF Staffing APEJ’s Canberra office after taking on a leadership role at Vivir Healthcare – where I was the only Vivir team member – but learned a ton of industry knowledge and skills from our Peoplebank and Chandler Macleod colleagues.

After taking on the role of Clinical Services Manager, I moved to our Sydney office and have been so fortunate to have been supported by Vivir Healthcare and RGF Staffing APEJ to balance my career aspirations with my personal needs.

Personally, I love long distance running. In my early days, my Manager allowed me to work longer weekdays to support weekend training camps. More recently, the access to RGF Staffing APEJ’s office facilities has allowed me to seamlessly transition between my personal life and exercise routine – into the workspace. I know it seems simple, but little things like this can make a huge difference.

And further to this, many of my clinical colleagues have become great friends over the past five years, and we catch-up regularly when I’m in Canberra. These are friendships that have grown from a Vivir Clinical setting which is fantastic.

7. What does Vivir Healthcare’s mission “We look to improve access to healthcare, so that every person can continue living a meaningful life - wherever they live” mean to you?

It was this mission statement that motivated me in my early days. After two years in Private Practice, I didn’t think I wanted to remain in healthcare. But the opportunity to work as a locum throughout New South Wales and Regional Queensland was so enlightening. From Gayndah to Parkes and Mandurah – I truly had the best time. I found creative ways to deliver exercise and rehabilitation in facilities with limited resources; and the residents made my day more than I could possibly make theirs.

I feel access to care in regional areas is really challenging, and the way that Vivir Healthcare strives to provide the best level of clinical care in regional areas is something that motivated me in my early days and motivates me still today.

8. Which one of Vivir Healthcare’s values, ‘make their day’, ‘say it, do it’, even better tomorrow’, ‘stronger together’ speaks to you the most in your current role and why?

While I relate strongly to each, for me – it is ‘say it, do it’.

Our clinicians, our care recipients and our customers want reliability and certainty. I want Vivir Healthcare to be a great place to work, because people get treated well and know they can grow in their time with us.

9. Why is Vivir Healthcare a great place to work?

I absolutely love working with Vivir Healthcare for more reasons than I have time to list. But for me, Vivir does things the right way. We ensure our regional care recipients and facilities get the same level of care and support as the suburbs. We ensure our staff are well trained and deliver care safely and effectively. We ensure that every staff member has equal access to support and knowledge through their coordinator. And we are an organisation that is trusted in the industry. And, I do my absolute best each day, to ensure that every team member has the opportunity to have the same experience with Vivir that I have had.

Are you interested in joining the team? Check our all our available positions today here.

Want to read more about our Clinicians career journey with Vivir Healthcare? Check out all our blogs here .

The incredible work of allied health assistants in supporting telehealth services

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:32:11 GMT

Allied Health Assistants at Vivir Healthcare play an important role in the high level of support we can provide our clients across Australia. While our Allied Health Assistants support our clinicians across Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Speech Therapy in both the community home care and residential aged care settings, their biggest impact is in the Telehealth space . With the rapidly evolving healthcare space, the integration of telehealth services has emerged as a ground-breaking solution to bridge gaps in accessibility and provide timely health care to individuals across diverse settings. Allied Health Assistants take on special responsibilities to facilitate this. In this blog, we explore the role of Allied Health Assistants and how they ensure smooth telehealth consultations with our clients as part of our Telehealth To You Program .

What is an Allied Health Assistant and what are their roles and responsibilities?

Allied Heath Assistants (AHAs) work under the supervision and delegation of an allied health professional (AHP). In Australia, AHAs normally need to have a certificate level qualification in health assistance to highlight they have skills and knowledge to perform in the role.

At Vivir Healthcare our AHA’s and clinicians work collaboratively to provide holistic care to our clients so we can provide our clients with the best outcomes in a timely manner. In particularly, our AHA’s support clinicians with our virtual Telehealth To You (TH2U) service. They play a pivotal role in supporting the delivery of virtual care through hands-on assistance such as assessments and interventions as delegated by the treating clinician and technical expertise.

Some of their roles and responsibilities include delivering exercise and wellness programs, taking environmental measurements, taking client anthropometric measurements, supporting speech assessments and interventions, adjusting equipment, and attending and supporting equipment trials in the home and community.

Allied Health Assistants and Telehealth

Our AHAs undertake a variety of tasks to facilitate telehealth appointments, including setting up video calls, engaging clients during assessments, and supporting communication between the client and the Clinician. Additionally, they follow specific instructions delegated by clinicians, such as taking measurements and capturing photos or videos as required.

Vivir Healthcare prioritises the seamless operation of telehealth sessions by implementing screening procedures at the time of booking to ensure client suitability. Clear explanations of telehealth processes are provided to clients and their support person, along with detailed instructions and technical support to mitigate any potential issues prior to appointments. Once this is all understood, a video link is sent to the client and their support person with appointment details.

Maintaining patient confidentiality and privacy is paramount in telehealth consultations. Vivir Healthcare employs secure platforms like Microsoft Teams for encrypted communication, obtains verbal or written consent prior to services, and ensures that video calls are neither saved nor recorded without explicit permission.

The professional development required by AHA’s need to support Telehealth services

Our AHAs undergo comprehensive training and professional development to effectively support telehealth services. This includes completing discipline-specific modules, participating in one-on-one inductions, and acquiring treatment competencies to ensure proficiency in delegated tasks. AHAs are also committed to upholding the same standards of care in telehealth as in face-to-face consultations. Under the supervision of the treating clinician, they adhere to delegated interventions and maintain regular communication to address any client concerns or queries.

Indeed, Telehealth services have significantly improved access to care for individuals in remote communities, where resources may be scarce or wait times extensive. We have a received a number of referrals in rural Queensland and NSW regions where there are limited Occupational Therapists or long waitlists. And by providing both Telehealth and TH2U services, we have been able to assess high risk clients and provide interventions with a fast turnaround, such as implementation of home modifications (i.e. rails) or equipment to support daily occupations and mobility. By offering timely assessments and interventions, Vivir Healthcare has addressed critical needs to support clients' ongoing care in rural and regional communities in Australia.

In conclusion, Allied Health Assistants play an indispensable role in the success of telehealth services – ensuring accessibility, quality, and efficiency in the delivery of healthcare. Their professionalism and efficiency contribute to smooth assessments, dispelling misconceptions about virtual services and highlighting their effectiveness. And as technology continues to advance, their contributions at Vivir Healthcare will remain essential in shaping the future of our healthcare delivery, transforming lives and communities along the way, no matter where they live.

My Career Journey with Vivir Healthcare – Daniel Corcoran

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:40:23 GMT

As an allied healthcare worker, every part of my journey with Vivir Healthcare has been a great experience, shaping both my professional growth and personal outlook on life. It all began in 2020, when I joined the Vivir Healthcare residential team supporting a Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF) in a small country town named Coraki, just south of Lismore. Little did I know that this journey would lead me to have deep connection with the communities I support as an Osteopath as well as bring me some wonderful career opportunities within the business.

One of the most memorable moments in my career was during the 2022 NSW floods where I was currently supporting RACFs for Vivir in the area. Northern NSW bore the brunt of nature's fury, and amidst the chaos, I witnessed the unwavering spirit of resilience and unity that defines the Australian spirit. It was heartening to see everyone in the region, regardless of background or circumstance, come together, showcasing the strength of community in the face of adversity.

Throughout my tenure with Vivir Healthcare, I've had the privilege of working at a number of facilities from country to coast . Listening to the stories from clients about their lives and how their local areas has changed has been an eye-opening experience. They certainly have a lot of stories to tell! Among the myriad encounters, some of the most memorable have been supporting those who have played professional sport, often representing Australia internationally – and no, I will not name names!

Earlier this year, I embarked on a new chapter within the business, taking on a Clinical Supervisor role. This promotion has been great so far, and I am really enjoying getting to know the clinicians and supporting their career progressions where I can as well as we collectively strive towards our shared mission of making lives better.

As I reflect on my career journey with Vivir Healthcare so far, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me as an allied healthcare worker, leader, and the clients who I have supported. Each interaction, whether with clients, colleagues, or communities have always been positive. I look forward to continuing to work with Vivir in my role and do my bit to help

improve access to healthcare, so that every person can continue living a meaningful life wherever they live.

We are always on the lookout for amazing allied healthcare professionals with a passion for 'making lives better' to join our team right around Australia! Check out all our roles on our jobs page here .

My Career Journey with Vivir Healthcare – Neha Awasthi

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 12:01:14 GMT

It is still fresh in my memory my first interview with Vivir Healthcare in January of 2019, that was within days of arriving in Australia. Needless to say, that the outcome of the interview was positive, and I was offered the role as a Physiotherapist! I received Limited Registration and Vivir was the first company that I interviewed with and my first employer in the lovely land down under.

While working at a residential aged care facility (RACF), I worked towards my full registration and received my General Registration in February of 2021. I soon became a Senior Physiotherapist and then was promoted to Clinical Team leader in August 2021. I was assigned 10 residential sites which gave me a great opportunity to liaise with more than 25 clinicians working at these sites. Every time, I was able to assist a clinician in any way possible whether it was a clinical query or a site issue, I felt immense amount of satisfaction. This was great for me professionally as I had an opportunity to learn from many senior clinicians in the team while at the same time providing support to junior clinicians. Since April 2022, I have been promoted to the role of Clinical Lead – Residential.

In my time with Vivir, I have worked in RACF, Home Care and NDIS. I have also had the opportunity to participate in several projects like running the Sunbeam program in several RACFs and more recently, working as part of Vivir’s Social Initiative Committee, which has been a lot of fun. I feel sense of gratitude every single day because of the nature of my work and the amount of positive difference I can bring in people’s lives. I live by Vivir’s value of “Make Their Day” and “Say it, Do it”. There are many beautiful anecdotes that I can share from the last five years, but the one that strikes in my memory is when I worked at a Regional RACF in Wagga Wagga for two weeks. Vivir Healthcare had just earned the contract for the site and the residents were so appreciative of our work as they had not had a regular clinician for some time due to the challenges caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic. The love that I received at this place encouraged me to say yes to working in regional areas whenever it was possible.

Recently I was able to support a Swinburne University student during their 6 weeks student placement program. Every once in a while, it is great to go back to Anatomy, Pathophysiology and Biomechanics!

Looking back at the time in Vivir, one thing that constantly remained the same is the support from all the Managers and the safe, respectful work environment. The amount of flexibility that is offered to us is a huge bonus for working parents like myself.

We are always on the lookout for amazing Physiotherapists with a passion for 'making lives better' to join our team right around Australia! Check out all our roles on our jobs page here.

Unlocking Wellness: The Transformative Power of Allied Healthcare Services

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:09:54 GMT

In a time where health and wellness are always top of mind, embracing a holistic approach to healthcare has become increasingly essential for Australians of all ages. Think Reformer Pilates, Mediterranean Diet, and Run Club. In a recent poll conducted among our LinkedIn followers, the consensus is clear: the majority agree that integrated healthcare services are extremely important for holistic patient care. We also recognise how our role as Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, and Dietitians positively contribute to mental, emotional, and social well-being. Through our integrated allied healthcare services available nationwide , we embody this ethos, providing transformative health care that addresses every facet of our clients' lives. In this blog, we delve into the significant role of Allied Health Workers and the strength of collaborative care, a principle we wholeheartedly embrace at Vivir Healthcare to support our clients in achieving their goals.

Why Allied Health Workers Matter

With roughly 200,000 registered allied health professionals in Australia, it is fair to say that Allied Health Workers play a pivotal role in the Australian healthcare system and serve as the backbone of patient care. Allied Health Workers, also known as Allied Health Professionals and Allied health Practitioners, are healthcare professionals who are university qualified and or have a national body accreditation. Their jobs are to use best practices to support clients in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of their health conditions – whether that be a severe ankle sprain condition, to recovery from a heart attack.

Their expertise spans a diverse range of disciplines, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, and dietetics. But what sets them apart is their collaborative approach to addressing human health challenges. This is important where individuals are facing increasingly complex health issues that require a multifaceted approach. This is where allied health services like Vivir Healthcare shine. They not only treat specific ailments but also consider the broader context of each client’s life, including their environment, lifestyle, and personal goals. By taking this holistic view, they can deliver more comprehensive

and effective care that truly transforms lives.

For example, one of our clients, Simon* was originally referred to Vivir Healthcare for pain management on his knee and back, as well wanting to maintain his mobility. After conducting a subjective assessment with one of our amazing Home Care Physiotherapists, Jyoti, we learned that his goal was to stand and tend to his raised garden bed. Through collaborative ongoing efforts with Jyoti and working on his lower limb strength and balance exercises, he is cultivating strength, resilience and sharing his passion for gardening!

The Need for Holistic Care through Collaboration

At Vivir Healthcare our team of Allied Health Professionals works seamlessly together to provide integrated care that addresses the diverse needs of our clients. Our Physiotherapists focus on improving mobility and function, our Occupational Therapists assist with daily activities and independence, our Speech Pathologists help with communication and swallowing disorders, and our Dietitians offer nutritional guidance for optimal health.

But it doesn't stop there. Our Allied Health Assistants play a crucial role in supporting our clinicians who are communicating with and treating the client via telehealth , ensuring smooth coordination and continuity of individualised care. Together, we form a cohesive unit dedicated to enhancing the well-being of our clients.

For instance, when one of our Physiotherapists attend to a Home Care client, once they achieve what they can with the client, as part of their review and reporting they will then, in the client’s best interest, internally refer the client to get further support by one of our Occupational Therapists.

What sets our approach apart is our unwavering commitment to personalised care. We understand that every individual is unique, with their own set of challenges and goals. That is why we take the time to listen, understand, and tailor our services to meet each person's specific needs.

Whether it's helping a stroke survivor regain independence, assisting a child with developmental delays, or supporting someone on their journey to better health, we are here every step of the way. By addressing the root causes of health issues and empowering our clients to take control of their well-being, we passionately support every person so they can continue living a meaningful life - wherever they live.

Indeed, in a world where wellness is more important than ever, embracing a holistic approach to healthcare is key. At Vivir Healthcare we are proud to offer allied healthcare services that go beyond just treating symptoms – we are committed to making lives better. With our collaborative team of Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Dietitians, and Allied Health Assistants and personalised approach to care, we are helping individuals in Australia achieve their full health potential.

Interested in learning more about our Home Care services? Click here .

To fill out our In-home referral form, click here .

*Name of client changed to protect their identity

Maitry's Career Journey as a Physiotherapist with Vivir Healthcare

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 12:16:45 GMT

I started my career with Vivir Healthcare in December 2019 as a limited registered Physiotherapist in Tasmania. When I started working with Vivir, I started taking manual handling sessions and it really helped me improve my skills of using mechanical aids with residents. The other thing I learned in Tasmania is the importance of strong work ethics and teamwork. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, our leaders couldn't be on-site with us regularly, but our small and tight-knitted team performed very well. This experience helped me develop a very positive and strong work ethic which also includes good communication and being of greater support for my colleagues. My public speaking skills also improved too during this time, strengthening my confidence.

When I started, I was struggling to deal with residents and especially residents with dementia. But eventually I developed my patience through practise and further education, and now I really enjoy working with and supporting residents experiencing cognitive decline. This is a good change in my behaviour and great for my personal and professional development which I am liking and enjoying. I like working in Residential Aged Care because residents are very loving and caring. Some of the residents really take care of you like their grandkids and give you all their precious life lessons.

After 10 wonderful months in Tasmania, I was then offered a relocation opportunity . I decided to move to Young, a town in the Western Slopes region of NSW. I really enjoyed working in Young because I got a very helpful Team Leader, Tyler. I worked there for over 12 months and then I moved to the beautiful Blue Mountains in Leura NSW. I have been working in Leura for more than 24 months now and enjoying every moment working here and getting to know the local community. I have also achieved General

Registration as a Physiotherapist since moving to Leura!

With the support of Vivir, I have also started my training for Home Care and NDIS , so I can support more clients. And I have

successfully learned how to take group exercise classes and develop both group and individual exercise plans.

Working with a diverse range of residents in the aged care space, I realise how much of a positive difference a Physiotherapist can make in an elderly person's life. It has changed my point of view towards looking at life. Life is very precious, and I intend to enjoy each and every moment. When I see residents reminiscing about their life, I feel like we need to gather more memories to reminisce. Working in Residential Aged Care with Vivir Healthcare has given me so much and played a pivotal role in my life and career for the better.

We are always on the lookout for amazing physiotherapists with a passion for 'making lives better' to join our team right around Australia! Check out all our roles on our jobs page here.

Interview with Susannah Neame on Vivir Healthcare’s Cultural Safety Framework

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 12:47:26 GMT

At Vivir Healthcare, our goal is 'to improve access to healthcare, so that every person can continue living a meaningful life - wherever they live'. We acknowledge that this is a journey and will be achieved by working to enhance, rather than diminish, individual and cultural identities; our philosophy is to empower and promote individual, family and community well-being. To explore this further, we sat down with Susannah Neame, our Virtual and Indigenous Operations Manager to learn more about Vivir’s Cultural Safety Framework.

Vivir Healthcare (VH): As an allied healthcare provider supporting people of all ages, what motivated Vivir Healthcare to create a Cultural Safety Framework and why was it important for one to be developed?

Susannah Neame (SN): It is well documented that there is a gap in healthcare provision for Indigenous communities. Vivir is at the forefront of innovative service delivery and has the capability and clinical capacity to review and re-frame its processes and clinical delivery into such communities across Australia. For any service line, a monitoring framework is required - a Cultural Safety Framework specifically references Vivir’s commitment to provide culturally safe care and a pathway for Indigenous workforce development.

The Cultural Safety Framework will assist communities, health services, health care providers, and professionals evaluate our commitment and delivery of culturally safe allied healthcare to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

VH: Why is cultural safety in health care for Indigenous Australians important?

SN: Safety is about how care is provided, rather than what care is provided. Cultural safety requires providers to deliver safe, accessible, and responsive health care that is free of racism and avoids disinformation. For Indigenous Australians, cultural safety in health care is essential as it seeks to ensure that care is not only safe but also respectful, inclusive, and culturally competent.

The emphasis on how care is provided highlights the significance of tailoring health care practices to align with the unique cultural, spiritual, and social backgrounds of Indigenous individuals and communities. It goes beyond addressing immediate health concerns and aims to establish a foundation of trust between healthcare providers (like Vivir Healthcare) and Indigenous communities. This approach not only contributes to improved health outcomes but also aligns with the principles of equity, justice, and cultural humility in healthcare delivery.

VH: What goals do we want to achieve with this Cultural Safety Framework by 2025?

SN: With the support of the entire Vivir team, in alignment with our Cultural Safety Framework, by 2025, we are motivated to achieve the following:

To develop genuine partnerships with communities and organisations enabling the co-design of service frameworks and delivery of care in a collaborative and sustainable manner;
Increase our capacity to service through responsive and appropriate delivery;
Create a team that embrace and carry forward holistic considerations when working with communities; and
Share our knowledge on culturally appropriate service frameworks through articles and presentations.

VH: What are the key focus areas of our Cultural Safety Framework?

SN: Our Vivir Cultural Safety Framework covers six key focus areas. They are:

Intergenerational Trauma and Mental Health
Awareness and Respect
Community Engagement and Collaboration
Workforce Diversity and Representation
Culturally Appropriate Healthcare Models
Holistic Health Approach

VH: What progress has Vivir made so far in line with our Cultural Safety Framework and other RAP commitments?

SN: We have been working closely with RGF Staffing APEJ’s RAP Manager Jackie Reilly to get a clear understanding of how we can best develop and execute our Cultural Safety Framework as well as work collaboratively with our Indigenous Communities. We are ensuring representation of Indigenous artwork and flags on documentation and marketing material, working with our Talent Acquisition team on recruitment strategies within communities to support healthcare provision as well as attending, conferences like the Indigenous Allied Health Conference (IAHC) to expand our learnings. We are also in the process of co-designing health services such as Clinical Yarning, and outcome questionaries, and are establishing remote hub services in Northern QLD.

VH: How have Vivir trained our clinicians in delivering allied healthcare services in a culturally safe and inclusive manner?

SN: At the moment, our Clinicians are receiving Cultural Safety and Cultural Awareness training, Clinical Yarning training, and discipline specific Indigenous Awareness training. Not only are these trainings providing career development opportunities for our wonderful clinicians but also expanding their knowledge of the diverse cultural landscapes they encounter in their work. This not only fosters a more respectful and inclusive healthcare environment but also enhances their ability to deliver stronger patient-centred care.

You can read our Cultural Safety Framework in full here , and our Reconciliation Action Plan here .

My Vivir Healthcare Career Journey as a Physiotherapist

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 13:05:09 GMT

My Physiotherapy career with Vivir Healthcare has taken me all over Australia. I first started with Vivir in 2017 in Sale Victoria where I supported one of our client’s Residential Aged Care Facilities for over two years.

I was keen for a change of scenery, so in November 2019 I moved to Queanbeyan NSW to provide Physiotherapy Services to aged care residents in the local area. I was in Queanbeyan during the COVID-19 pandemic, so I really got to explore the local area during this time of lock down, and it was a pleasure to still be supporting people in Residential Aged Care homes when it was safe to do so.

My most memorable experiences with residents would be when I started organising and facilitating group exercise sessions to improve their strength and dexterity. Seeing all the residents moving, laughing, and having fun with their fellow aged care residents in the group – all while actively participating in the exercises that are keeping them fit and mobile makes my day and reminds me why I wanted to become a Physiotherapist. Also, receiving their comments that they are always looking forward to their next session every week gives me great joy and satisfaction.

In May 2023, I wanted to move to Queensland and Vivir happily supported this. I was able to relocate to another facility in Cairns to continue my role as a Physiotherapist. I am really enjoying Queensland so far and I am so thankful to Vivir for supporting my relocation.

Working with Vivir Healthcare has given me a lot of opportunity to grow professionally from working with other allied health professionals, managing different cases, organising physio programs for our wonderful residents, and completing all functional assessments. I also appreciate the constant support from the Vivir Healthcare office support team which makes this business a great career launch pad for recent allied healthcare graduates, but also for allied healthcare professionals who are seeking career progression opportunities, work flexibility and training and development.

We are always on the look out for amazing physiotherapists with a passion for 'making lives better' to join our team right around Australia! Check out all our roles on our jobs page here

The Vital Role of Physiotherapists in Fostering Community Health and Happiness

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:12:28 GMT

When it comes to community health and well-being, physiotherapists emerge as unsung heroes, playing a crucial role in keeping our society mobile, healthy and able. At Vivir Healthcare, we see firsthand the impact that physiotherapy has on individuals and the collective vitality of our community. We thought we would delve into the significant role physiotherapists play in keeping our community healthy, and how their expertise improves quality of life, reaching into the heart of what makes a community thrive.

Holistic Health Approach:

Physiotherapists are champions of a comprehensive approach to health, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors that influence well-being. By focusing on the entire body and its interconnected systems, physiotherapists listen to, and address their client’s main health concerns, whether that may be pain management or regaining their functional activity. Through tailored exercise-based therapy and addressing any acute injuries (such as sprains and strains) or post-operative rehabilitation, physiotherapists empower individuals to take charge of their health, fostering a patient-centred mindset.

Personalised Care for Diverse Needs:

One of the remarkable aspects of physiotherapy is its versatility. Physiotherapists are equipped to treat a diverse range of health needs across all age groups . From paediatric care, addressing chronic pains like lower-back pain or neck pain, to specialised programs for older people requiring falls prevention intervention, these allied health professionals bring targeted care to every life stage. This personalised touch not only ensures effective treatment but also fosters a sense of individualised attention that is vital for holistic care and well-being.

Community Accessibility:

Accessibility to healthcare is a cornerstone of a thriving community. Physiotherapists bridge the accessibility gap by offering services that extend beyond the confines of traditional clinics. At Vivir Healthcare, we take pride in bringing friendly and professional physiotherapy services directly to our clients’ doorstep – whether that be their own homes or retirement village.

Home-based physiotherapy services offer a unique advantage , allowing individuals to receive care in a familiar and comfortable setting. This not only reduces stress and anxiety associated with clinical settings, but also facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's lifestyle, aiding in the development of tailored individualised care plans.

Our physiotherapists are based all over Australia and are committed to removing transportation barriers for our clients, making expert care available to individuals who might be time poor, or face physical and financial challenges in travelling to seek healthcare.

Rehabilitation and Functional Improvement:

Physiotherapists are instrumental in the rehabilitation process, especially for individuals recovering from surgery, sports injuries, disability or chronic conditions. By focusing on functional improvement, physiotherapists go beyond simply treating symptoms - they empower individuals to regain independence in their daily lives. This emphasis on functionality contributes to a community where everyone can actively participate in and contribute to the various facets of life.

Active Lifestyle Promotion:

Community vitality is deeply connected to the overall physical and mental well-being of its people. Physiotherapists, with their expertise in movement and function, promote an active lifestyle. Whether it is through exercise programs, ergonomic assessments or injury prevention strategies, physiotherapists inspire and guide clients to embrace physical activity, fostering a healthier quality lifestyle.

Emotional and Psychological Well-being:

The impact of physiotherapy extends beyond physical health – it also encompasses emotional and psychological well-being. Chronic pain and physical limitations can take a toll on mental health. Physiotherapists with their holistic approach, address these interconnected aspects of health by promoting a sense of well-being that encompasses the whole person. By addressing mental health through movement and therapeutic interventions, physiotherapists contribute to maintaining emotionally resilient communities.

Continuity of Care:

In a community setting, continuity of care is paramount. Physiotherapists, often working within the same community, establish strong therapeutic relationships and rapport with their clients. This continuity ensures a deeper understanding of individual health histories, preferences and goals. It fosters a sense of trust where individuals feel supported and understood throughout their health journey.

Telehealth for Enhanced Care:

The integration of telehealth services in recent years has enhanced the overall reach of physiotherapists to provide care to their clients in rural and remote areas. Whether our clients are in metropolitan, remote or regional areas, our Vivir Healthcare Telehealth Services offer access to physiotherapy services through the utilisation of our Allied Health Assistants, supporting our Physiotherapists who are behind a digital screen providing expert and tailored care in the client’s own home.

Indeed, physiotherapists play an important role in supporting our community to be healthy and happy. At Vivir Healthcare our physiotherapists are fostering health, happiness, and resilience to all our clients who need our support. In providing our clients with convenient, at-home physiotherapy services , we can deliver a tailored treatment plan to help our clients reach their own healthcare goals with a focused approach to well-being.

Interested in engaging with our at-home community physiotherapy services? Reach out to our team here to book in an appointment.

Celebrating the abilities of people with a disability this IDPwD

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:17:26 GMT

Every year on the 3rd of December is International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). Officially announced by the United Nations in 1992, IDPwD is a day observed all over the world as it aims to promote and showcase community awareness and acceptance of individuals with a disability, but most importantly celebrate their achievements. The 2023 theme for IDPwD, ‘United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by persons with disabilities’, calls on everyone to collaborate in creating a more equitable and just world for individuals with disabilities.

Disability in Australia

In Australia, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, more than 4 million people in Australia have a disability , with half of those with a disability being people who are 65 and over.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) currently supports more than 610,000 participants.

How we support Australians with disability

At Vivir Healthcare, we are acknowledging this special day not only to recognise and assist in closing the barrier and stigma of disability, but to also show our support as a registered NDIS provider for the provision of allied health services . The Allied Health services that we provide to NDIS participants aims to promote inclusion, as well as raise awareness about the challenges faced by person with disability.

Our Australia-wide team are made up of passionate, friendly, and talented Speech Pathologists , Occupational Therapists , Physiotherapists , and Dietitians who collaborate with participants, families, and care workers / support coordinators to deliver the best possible outcomes to help the individual reach their goals. In most cases, our clinicians are available to conduct home visits and can also connect and provide tailored support via our telehealth services across dietetics, speech pathology, occupational therapy and physiotherapy.

We work with participants of all abilities. Our patient-centred approach not only helps us deliver tailored support to individuals, but to provide the upmost individualised care so they can maintain their engagement and independence in all areas of daily living in their community.

Contact Vivir Healthcare about your NDIS needs

Overall, IDPwD is about promoting the rights of individuals with disabilities because we all have the right to be an active member our community. If you’re interested in learning more about the disability NDIS services we provide, click here . To submit an NDIS referral form, click here.

How to nail your interview as an Allied Health Professional

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 13:25:21 GMT

Interviewing for a career in the allied health field can be an intimidating task. From researching the job and organisation to practicing responses to anticipated questions, the process requires due diligence and thoughtful preparation. However, with proper knowledge of what it takes to succeed as an allied health professional, you can reduce your anxiety and come away from interviews confident that you’ve highlighted your skills appropriately. Continue reading this post for insider tips on how to ace every interview opportunity!

Research the organisation and ask yourself what skills and qualifications you have that match their job requirements

As you research the organisation you're interested in, it is important to take note of their specific job requirements and think about how your own skills and qualifications align with them. Ask yourself, what unique attributes do I bring to the table that would make me a good fit for this role? You may have additional qualifications in a relevant field, or experience working with a specific program, or have a degree in a relevant field. Even if you do not have every requirement listed in the job description, don't get discouraged. Highlight the skills you do possess and think about how you can leverage them to make a valuable contribution to the business. Taking the time to assess your own strengths and match them with a potential employer's needs is a wonderful way to set yourself apart in a competitive job market.

Prepare your resume in advance - make sure it is up to date, organised, and comprehensive

Your resume is your personal marketing tool that highlights your skills, experiences, and qualifications to potential employers. It is always a good idea to prepare your resume in advance and keep it up to date. This means that you must make sure that it is well-organised, comprehensive, and easy to read. It is important to highlight your achievements and describe your responsibilities in a clear and concise manner. A good resume should be tailored to the job you are applying for and should always be accompanied by a well-crafted cover letter. By taking the time to prepare and update your resume, you can ensure that you are presenting yourself in the best light to potential employers.

Practice answering typical interview questions

Going to a job interview can be nerve-wracking, but there is an easy way to calm your nerves and prepare for the big day: practice! By going through common interview questions, such as "what are your strengths and weaknesses?" or "why do you want to work for our company?", with someone you trust, you can get comfortable with delivering confident answers. Plus, your practice partner can give you helpful feedback on your responses, allowing you to refine your answers before the actual interview.

It is also important to practice more specific, healthcare oriented questions for when you are being asked about your clinical knowledge. Practicing responses to common clinical questions relevant to the role you are interviewing for will help you feel prepared and confident in demonstrating your skills and abilities. With a bit of practice, you can walk into your interview with confidence and ace those tough questions!

Dress to impress - choose professional clothing that makes you feel confident

When it comes to dressing for work, it is important to choose professional clothing that not only meets the dress code, but also makes you feel confident. When you look good, you feel good - and that confidence can translate to better performance in the workplace. If in doubt, it is always better to overdress for a situation if you are unsure of the exact dress code. Whether it is a sleek black blazer or a crisp white button-up, finding pieces that fit well and make you feel put together can make all the difference. So next time you are getting ready for work, take a moment to assess how your outfit makes you feel. If it is not boosting your confidence, it might be time to switch things up and find a wardrobe that truly empowers you.

Be sure to bring several copies of your resume, references, and other documents as required by the interviewer

Preparing for a job interview can be nerve-wracking, but being organised and prepared can set you up for success. If you’re interviewing in person, one important aspect is to ensure you have several copies of your resume, references, and any other documents required by the interviewer. This not only shows that you are organised and responsible, but it also allows for easy reference during the interview. Do not assume that because you have already emailed your resume through that the person interviewing you will have a copy on hand! Additionally, having extra copies ensures that you are prepared in case there are unexpected changes to the interview panel or if additional interviewers are added.

Many companies have moved to remote interviewing, which is advantageous in the fact that you don’t have to risk traffic, or being unable to find a physical location, however, there are key considerations you should make for a virtual interview- ensure you have a quiet place to interview, free from distractions, and test your internet connection ahead of time. If you do not have a reliable internet provider, find somewhere that does, this could be a library, or shared office area. Remember, the more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel, and the better your chances of acing that interview!

A job interview is an opportunity to demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the position. As such, make sure that you take the time to research the organisation and their requirements and have your resume ready ahead of time. Additionally, practice common interview questions so that you feel more confident at the actual interview. Moreover, arrive early, dress to impress, and show enthusiasm for the role. Most importantly, bring any extra documents requested by the interviewer – such as references or right to work documentation. With these steps in mind, there is no reason your job interview experience won’t be a positive one. So go out there - ace your job interview and get hired!

Enhance your career with Vivir Healthcare

If you’re an allied health professional looking for a rewarding career with a quality provider of allied health services, committed to making lives better, we’d love to hear from you! Head to our jobs page for the roles we are currently hiring for.

Forklift Luke's Incredible Journey to Arnhem Land

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 13:38:35 GMT

Have you ever had an experience that is both humbling and exhilarating? That’s how people who have experienced Garma Festival describe it. Garma Festival is Australia’s largest Indigenous gathering, a vibrant 4-day celebration of Yolngu life and culture, held in remote northeast Arnhem Land.

Hosted by the Yothu Yindi Foundation, Garma showcases traditional miny’tji (art), manikay (song), bunggul (dance) and storytelling, and is an important meeting point for First Nations peoples from all over the Northern Territory, as well as from some remote locations including Grude Island, Tiwi Islands, and the surrounds.

The festival’s overriding cultural mission is to provide a contemporary environment for the expression and presentation of traditional Yolngu knowledge systems and customs, and to share these practices in an authentic Yolngu setting.

Vivir Healthcare Volunteer at Garma Festival 2023

This year’s festival was held in August, and Vivir Healthcare’s Northern State Operations Manager, Luke Ellis, along with 6 other team members from across our parent company, RGF Staffing APEJ, had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of taking part in an 11-day immersive volunteering program. Our team members spent their time assisting the Garma site crew setting up and packing down the festival (including 2000 tents!), as well as a range of other tasks from hospitality and logistics to administration and site management.

Luke assisted in warehousing and logistics and spent so much time on forklift that that he quickly gained the nickname ‘Forklift Luke’, which stayed with him throughout the festival. And which will now be immortalised in our blog.

We asked Forklift Luke for some of his highlights. Here’s what he had to say…

Witnessing the Live Q and A Program

One of the highlights was witnessing a live Q&A program where experts shared their insights on various aspects of First Nations culture, history, and contemporary issues. The discussions were thought-provoking and enlightening, broadening my understanding of the challenges and triumphs of Indigenous communities.

Meeting Valerie, an Aboriginal Elder

Perhaps one of the most moving encounters was meeting Valerie, an Aboriginal elder. Her warmth, wisdom, and artistic talents left a lasting impression on me. I was fortunate to purchase one of her beautiful artworks, a piece that now serves as a cherished memento of our meeting and a symbol of my connection to her culture.

Taking Part in a Healing Ceremony

Participating in a healing ceremony was an incredibly powerful experience. The spirituality and traditions that enveloped this event were a testament to the resilience and strength of First Nations peoples. It was a privilege to be included in this sacred practice and to learn about the significance it holds within their culture.

Helping Build the Largest Cinema in Arnhem Land

Contributing to the construction of the largest cinema in Arnhem Land was another remarkable experience. It was a tangible way to support the local community and foster cultural exchange through the medium of film. Knowing that this cinema would become a hub for storytelling and community gatherings made the hard work even more rewarding.

Bush Medicine Educational Walk

Exploring the world of bush medicine during an educational walk was both enlightening and practical. Learning about the diverse array of plants and their traditional uses underscored the importance of preserving this knowledge for future generations.

Opening and Closing Bungul Dances

The grand finale of the event was marked by the captivating Bungul dances. Being a part of the opening and closing ceremonies was a breathtaking experience. The energy, colors, and stories conveyed through dance were truly awe-inspiring.

Vivir Healthcare, in collaboration with their parent company RGF Staffing APEJ, aims to participate again in Garma’s volunteer programs. Providing more employees with this truly unique opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Yolngu people and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions. It will also allow us to continue fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange , aligning with our commitments in our Reconciliation Action Plan .

Get fit while you sit!

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 13:47:45 GMT

A healthy and active lifestyle is important for everyone, regardless of mobility levels and abilities. Seated exercises are a revolutionary approach to fitness that enables individuals with mobility issues or limitationsto stay active.

Let’s have a look at some seated exercises that are easy to start with and require nothing more than a sturdy chair. Remember, never push yourself beyond what is comfortable and if anything feels ‘off’, stop what you are doing!

Toe Lifts

Sit up straight with both feet flat on the floor, stretched out in front of you.
Lift the toes of both feet, leaving your heels on the floor.
Replace your toes to the floor and gently lift your heels.
Lower your heels and repeat starting with your toes.

Heel Slides

Sit up straight at the edge of your chair, holding onto the arms of the chair for stability.
Starting with your knees bent naturally, slowly point one leg forward whilst keeping the other bent.
Slowly bring your extended leg back, keeping the sole of the foot on the floor.
When your leg returns to the starting position, switch legs.

Knee Lifts

Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor.
Slowly lift one knee toward your chest, and then lower your leg back to the floor.
Repeat with your alternate leg.

Knee Extensions

Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor, and your knees together at a right angle.
Straighten one leg out in front of you as high as is comfortable and hold for one second.
Slowly lower your leg back to the bent position.
Repeat on the other leg. Do a few extensions of each leg.

Shoulder Rolls

Sit up straight with your feet flat on the ground.
Shrug your shoulders up toward your ears, and slowly rotate your shoulders in a circle towards the back, all the way back to the top.
When you reach the top, reverse the direction, rolling your shoulders forward.
Repeat this movement in both directions.

Shoulder Circles

In a seated position, place your fingertips on your shoulders as if creating wings.
Circle your shoulders backwards several times.
Reverse the direction, and circle forward several times.

Overhead Press

Sit with your back straight and feet flat on the floor.
Bend your arms up so that your wrists are in line with your shoulders, facing the front and making a W shape.
Slowly raise both arms up straight and hold for a second.
Return arms back to their W positions. Repeat.

Seated Row

Sit on the edge of your seat with your back straight and feet flat on the floor.
Stretch your arms in front of you, with your thumbs pointed toward the ceiling and your elbows slightly bent.
Draw your elbows back, squeezing your shoulder blades together, until your upper arms are in line with your body.
Extend your arms again, and repeat.

Seated March

Sit at the edge of your seat with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor with your knees bent.
Left one leg up a high as is comfortable with your knee bent.
Place your foot back down.
Repeat on the other leg. Repeat on each side.

Seated Star Jumps

Sit up straight, towards the edge of your seat.
Extent your arms to the side and then above your head as you would with a standing star jump.
Return your arms to your side again.
Repeat and increase your speed to a level that is comfortable, being mindful not to bang the arms of your chair!
Seated exercises are a great way to stay active and enjoy some exercise without putting yourself at risk. There are also several ways to increase the difficulty level or resistance of the different exercises using hand weights and dumbbells as your strength and endurance increases.

Talk to Vivir Healthcare

If you’re interested in finding out more about exercises for people with mobility concerns, talk to one of our supportive physiotherapists at Vivir Healthcare . We offer services in residential aged care and home care services including under the NDIS and privately.

The role of physiotherapy in managing Parkinson’s disease

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:00:50 GMT

Parkinson’s disease is a progressively degenerative neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, and approximately 219,000 people in Australia. Parkinson’s disease, and assisting people living with the disorder, is of personal interest to me, as my late grandfather has this condition and I witnessed firsthand the impact it had on him, and our family.

Understanding Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson's disease primarily affects the substantia nigra, a region at the base of the brain, and was first identified in 1817 by Dr James Parkinson. The substantia nigra houses black pigmented cells responsible for producing vital neurotransmitters, including dopamine. A decrease in dopamine levels over several years is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease, although the exact cause of this reduction remains unknown.

The role of dopamine

Dopamine, along with the basal ganglia, plays a crucial role in coordinating body movements, such as walking, writing, and putting on shoes. When the basal ganglia malfunctions in Parkinson's disease, various movement-related issues arise, marking the onset of symptoms.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

The signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease begin to present when dopamine levels reduce to one fifth of normal dopamine markers. The signs include tremors, rigidity and stiffness, poor balance, poor posture, short, shuffling steps, and a type of sudden freezing mid gait, as well as bradykinesia, a slowness of movement. Aching and stiffness are also symptoms that are commonly reported. All symptoms can affect both sides of the body, but sometimes affect one side more than the other.

Tremors are the most common early symptom, starting unilaterally in the upper limbs. This type of tremor is often described as a ‘constantly running motor’ which increases with anxiety, decreases with activity, and becomes absent in sleep.

Rigidity and stiffness lead to a sense of increased effort during movement, causing muscular pains. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease have reported that their limbs feel heavy and weak, but still maintain the same level of strength and power.

Postural instability and poor balance can result in unsteadiness, limping, and stooping. Consequently, this creates an increased fall and trip risk for individuals with the disease.

Bradykinesia manifests as slow initiation of movement and a lack of spontaneous motion, leading to progressively smaller handwriting and tremors commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease.

The Role of Physiotherapy

Upon diagnosis, the focus turns to managing the disease. While there is no cure, treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and promote a healthy lifestyle. Medication typically involves dopamine replacement, with levodopa being a common choice.

Physiotherapy, along with occupational and speech therapy , plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with Parkinson's disease. Physiotherapists at Vivir Healthcare work to enhance mobility, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness while addressing rigidity, posture, and balance issues. This individualised approach helps patients maintain independence and safety.

In addition to therapy, individuals are encouraged to engage in regular physical activity to improve mobility and delay secondary symptoms. Support groups and counselling provide emotional support for individuals and their families, fostering understanding and friendship among those facing similar challenges.

While surgery was once an option for Parkinson's treatment, drug therapy like levodopa has become more prevalent. However, maintaining activity levels, emotional well-being, and a near-normal lifestyle remains crucial. Physiotherapy serves as a vital component in ensuring individuals with Parkinson's disease can retain their independence, mobility, and safety.

At Vivir Healthcare, our dedicated Physiotherapists are able to support clients with Parkinson's disease, whether in Residential Aged Care or in the comfort of their own homes through our Home Care Service . If you are interested in learning more about our physiotherapy and other allied health services, please fill out our contact form . We are here to help you or your loved one on the journey of managing Parkinson's disease.

Managing Professional Development as an Allied Health Professional

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 14:07:43 GMT

Allied Health Professionals must maintain a level of knowledge, education and certification to meet the requirements of an association, professional body or registration. There is a range of education and learning options to support these professional considerations.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a structured approach to managing skills and many professions require a minimum level of CPD to maintain professional registration. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) defines CPD as “how health practitioners maintain, improve and broaden their knowledge, expertise and competence, and develop the personal and professional qualities required throughout their professional lives.”

What do I need to complete in CPD?

Each profession’s mandatory level of CPD differs – please see each discipline’s minimum mandatory requirement below.

Exercise Physiologists: Accrue 20 points Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points each calendar year, inclusive of a minimum of 15 points from the Further Education category.

Dietitians: A minimum of 30 hours of CPD each year.

Occupational Therapists: The accumulation of 20 CPD hours including 5 hours of interactive learning by the 30th of November each year is a mandatory requirement for all Occupational Therapists with general registration.

Osteopaths: a minimum of 25 hours of CPD in each annual registration period (1st of December to the 30th of November), including four hours of mandatory topics approved by the Board.

Physiotherapists: A minimum of 20 hours of CPD must be completed annually including a declaration that your CPD activity meets the requirements of the CPD standard.

Speech Pathologists: A minimum of 20 hours of learning, which includes at least 2 hours of cultural learning and 2 hours of professional support, to maintain certification.

Tips on maintaining CPD Requirements

Join your professional body: Professional Bodies such as the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Osteopathy Australia can provide the tools and resources to maintain your CPD requirements each year. With online learning, free workshops, magazines, conferences, working groups and online diaries/trackers, Professional Bodies make keeping up-to-date easy and enjoyable.

Understand your discipline’s requirements: Many disciplines have sub-requirements within the minimum number of points or units required to maintain your registration. For example, Exercise and Sports Science Australia updated their requirements in 2019 so that a minimum of 15 CPD points must be dedicated to “Further Education”. Understanding the specifics of your discipline greatly supports ensuring the CPD you complete meets the criteria and will be accepted.

Take advantage of free professional development: Many organisations and groups provide free education that can count toward your CPD requirements. Equipment and Mobility stores, companies (e.g. Nutritional Supplement providers), Local, State or Federal Government bodies, tertiary institutions, insurance organisations or not-for-profit groups advertise professional development to demonstrate the latest evidence, products and innovations relevant to your discipline. Following such groups on social media, signing up to email notifications or regularly checking their calendar is a great way to stay up to date with free professional development opportunities in your field.

Follow your interests and passion:Education is more enjoyable when you follow your passion. Many disciplines have special interest groups or advisory groups affiliated with their professional body. Becoming involved in these groups or simply attending professional development sessions that spark interest is a great way to progress your career while also following your passion.

Combine Professional Development training with a vacation or adventure: Professional Development training and conferences are held all over the world – sometimes in some unique and memorable destinations. Combining Professional Development training and conferences with an adventure is a great way to maintain your CPD requirements whilst having a memorable experience. Travelling for professional development is also a great way to improve networking in your field!

Fin an employer that provides internal professional development to its team members!

At Vivir Healthcare, we provide regular professional development to our team – across all disciplines. Furthermore, the majority of our Professional Development is recorded and uploaded to our Vivir Learning platform – so you can watch this later and in your own time.

Vivir Learning is our Learning Management System (LMS) for Vivir Healthcare's clinicians. Vivir Learning provides a modern layout, greater accessibility across devices, and an improved user experience. Vivir Learning gives easy access to our course library, webinars, and resources. It also provides a clear overview of professional development completed so you can track your PD hours/units ahead of registration time.

Apply for one of our open roles to potentially join the Vivir Healthcare team and gain access to our free Learning Management System.

Speech Pathology: much more than just words

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 14:17:19 GMT

Speech Pathology is the study, diagnosis, and treatment of communication disorders, including challenges with speaking, listening, language comprehension, reading, writing, social skills, stuttering and using the voice.

Speech pathologists, also known as speech therapists, work with individuals who have difficulty communicating due to developmental delays, stroke, brain injuries, learning disabilities, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dementia, hearing loss, and any other problems that can affect speech and language. People who struggle with eating and swallowing food and drink can also benefit from the assistance of a speech pathologist!

Speech pathology is an incredibly rewarding and varied area of allied health with speech pathologists working in hospitals, schools, residential aged care homes, and disability support services in the community .

We've put together some simple exercises commonly used by speech pathologists that you can try at home. These exercises work on mouth and tongue muscle control which are key elements to communication and speech improvement.

Tongue Up & Downs

Open your mouth and poke your tongue out. Stretch it up toward your nose and hold it for 2 seconds, then toward your chin and hold it for 2 seconds. Repeat these movements 10 times.

Tongue Side to Side

Open your mouth and poke your tongue out to touch the right side of your mouth. Hold this for 2 seconds. Then move your tongue to the left side of your mouth and hold for 2 seconds. Repeat these movements 10 times.

Tongue In & Outs

Poke your tongue out as far as you can. Hold this position for 2 seconds and move your tongue back into your mouth. Repeat this movement 10 times.

Breath control

Inhale your breath over the count of 4. Hold your breath to the count of 4. Exhale over the count of 4. Hold for the count of 4. Repeat this exercise 10 times.

Pucker Up

Start with your mouth in a relaxed position and then move your lips as though to make a kiss face (also known as duck face). Hold your lips like this for 2 seconds and relax your mouth. Repeat this movement 10 times.

Smile

Smile as wide as your cheeks can go and hold for 2 seconds. Relax your mouth for 2 seconds. Repeat this movement 10 times. It can be beneficial to do this exercise in front of a mirror to monitor progress.

Consonants & Vowels

If you are having problems with one consonant, particularly post stroke when /r/ and /t/ can become quite difficult, try pairing this sound with your vowels and saying them out loud. For example, ra, re, ri, ro, ru, or ta, te, ti, to, tu. Repeat this 10 times.

Read Out Loud

A great way to practice and improve speech is to real aloud. This can include reading anything from text messages and emails out loud, to reading a book out loud.

Word Repetition

A simple way to practice problematic words is to repeat them as much as possible to increase muscle memory and your ability to pronounce them correctly. When you come across a word you struggle with, try repeating it several times and make a note of it to practice repeating later.

Converse

The best way to practice your speech is to use it! Have conversations with friends, family, and even strangers to increase your confidence with speaking. If you’re self-conscious, start small, and work your way up to longer, and more focused conversations.

While these exercises are safe to do at home, we recommend individuals work with a qualified speech pathologist to develop a care plan specific to their needs with exercises tailored to overcoming their determined obstacles. If you’re interested in discussing the services we provide at Vivir, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

If you’re a speech pathologist looking for a rewarding career with a quality provider of allied health services, committed to making lives better, we’d love to hear from you! Head to our jobs page for the roles we are currently hiring for.

Why the world needs more Occupational Therapists

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:26:53 GMT

In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide holistic care is on the rise. Among these valuable experts are occupational therapists (OTs) , who play a vital role in improving the lives of individuals with physical, mental, and developmental challenges. Given the name ‘occupational’ therapy, most people assume that it is a therapy specifically focused on the workplace, however, occupational therapy stretches far beyond the boundaries of employment. Occupational Therapists are allied health professionals who play a vital role in helping people overcome injuries or physical limitations to ensure that they can participate in their daily routines, or the tasks that ‘occupy’ them. Occupational therapists provide a range of services including assessing, diagnosing, and treating physical or psychological conditions that limit an individual’s ability to engage in meaningful activities. OTs are holistic practitioners and problem solvers who work with people of any age to help them maintain, regain, or improve their independence.

Helping people recover

Occupational therapists play an essential role in helping individuals recover from injury or illness. They assist in determining the best exercises, movements, and activities that can aid in restoring strength and improving flexibility. Occupational therapists work together with doctors and other allied healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for every client. The therapy is vital as it helps clients feel comfortable and confident enough to continue to carry out their activities of daily life after trauma.

Enhancing mental health

Occupational therapists can work with clients with both physical and mental health concerns. An occupational therapist may work with a client to develop coping strategies for people overcoming their mental health issues or improving confidence and self-esteem in social situations. Occupational therapists in mental health use individual and group programs and activities to enhance independence in everyday activities and can include working with individuals to develop skills to live more independently, become an active part of their community, learn to handle stress and different emotions, develop coping skills, develop communication skills, and structure their daily life. Occupational therapy interventions focus on improving the patient’s ability to participate in meaningful activities and is essential in giving individuals a sense of purpose and daily routine, which can improve their overall well-being and mental outlook.

Improving quality of life

Occupational therapists work with individuals to ensure they live fulfilling, satisfying lives. OTs provide clients with the skills and equipment necessary for carrying out their daily activities and hobbies, and interests that bring them joy. Occupational therapy ensures that these individuals with disabilities, injury, or illness are as independent as possible, thus improving their overall quality of life. Occupational therapy is an essential part of ensuring the individual can keep up with their daily routines and maintain human connections and allows them to play an active role in society.

Assisting everyone

Occupational therapy caters to people of all ages, including children, adults, and the elderly. Occupational therapists can provide early intervention for children diagnosed with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, physical disabilities such as spina bifida, sensory and attention issues, developmental and learning delay, and other medical and surgical conditions. Occupational therapy with children and young people is focused on learning and play, and includes daily activities like getting dressed, going to school, making friends, and taking part in clubs and groups.

Overall, occupational therapists work with young people to ensure that they experience a smooth transition to adulthood, facilitating excellent health outcomes. They work with adults to promote their physical health, mental health, and quality of life, and they work with seniors to improve their overall wellbeing while ensuring that they are safe in performing activities of daily living.

Collaborative and interdisciplinary approach

At Vivir Healthcare, our occupational therapists work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. This interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive and coordinated care for clients. Our OTs collaborate with physiotherapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and other allied health professionals to create tailored treatment plans that address the unique needs of the individual. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and allows OTs to learn from and contribute to a diverse range of healthcare perspectives.

Further your career with Vivir Healthcare

Vivir Healthcare is a leading allied health provider that offers quality services in residential aged care , home care , and across the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sector . As part of Vivir Healthcare, occupational therapists can work with a diverse range of clients, each with their unique needs and goals. We value the expertise and knowledge that occupational therapists bring to the team and recognises the importance of this specialised skills, ensuring a supportive environment for OTs to further develop their skills and knowledge.

Whether it's supporting the elderly in residential care facilities, assisting individuals with disabilities in their homes, or providing services under the NDIS, occupational therapists at Vivir Healthcare have the chance to make a significant impact on people's lives.

Occupational therapy and occupational therapists are a largely unknown field in allied health that most people don’t hear about until they need it for themselves or a loved one. But as we’ve discussed, occupational therapists play a vital role not only in the physical health but also in the mental health of their clients. Occupational therapy interventions aim to build the confidence of individuals by helping them to identify their strengths and abilities, enabling them to better achieve their goals. It also helps patients develop practical strategies for managing difficult emotions and situations that may arise in daily life. With so many different areas of work, and so any individuals in need of holistic assistance, considering the career path of an occupational therapist is not only rewarding, but a valuable contribution to society.

If you are interested in ways to study Occupational Therapy, head to the Uni Guide for a comprehensive look at courses and universities in Australia. If you’re an OT looking to work with a company who is committed to making lives better, get in touch with the Vivir team.

Maintaining Pride in Aged Care

Thu, 25 May 2023 14:41:29 GMT

Navigating the aged care system can be overwhelming for anyone, but when you’re part of a minority group who has historically experienced violence, isolation, and stigma, this process becomes even more daunting. Quite often when we think of Pride Month or the LGBTI community, we think of the history of the people who came before and fought for the rights and equality of the community, the parties, the marches, the glitz and glitter of the celebrations. What we don’t consider is what happens when the LGBTI community ages and requires more care. How do they remain true to themselves and their queer identity when entering a system that largely regards sexual identity as a non-event?

Here’s a guide to some of the best LGBTI resources for the aging population.

The Silver Rainbow Project

The Silver Rainbow project aims to enhance the experiences of LGBTI individuals as they grow older and navigate the Australian aged care system. Australia leads the way as the first country to implement a National LGBTI Ageing & Aged Care Strategy.

Through this project, LGBTIQ+ Health Australia works to educate service providers, policymakers, LGBTI individuals, and the broader community on how to cater to the unique needs of LGBTI elders. Additionally, they assist in connecting LGBTI elders with valuable services and resources. The collective goal is to ensure that aged care services are inclusive and accommodating of the diverse genders, bodies, sexualities, and relationships of older Australians.

Rainbow Tick Standards

The Rainbow Tick Accreditation Program supports health and community organisations to understand and implement LGBTI safe and inclusive service delivery. It provides national recognition for those that meet the Rainbow Tick Standards.

Becoming Rainbow Tick accredited supports organisations to ensure they provide inclusive care and support, in a safe and quality environment. It reassures members of the LGBTI community that they are welcomed and understood.

10 Questions to ask about LGBTI needs in residential aged care

This is a fantastic resource created by LGBTIQ+ Health Australia written by doctors, nurses, and other experts with experience in aged care. It provides a list of questions that can help people who do identify as LGBTI find a suitable provider. This resource can give people peace of mind that they have covered all bases when trying to find the best provider to fit their needs and preferences.

My Aged Care

My Aged Care, the gateway to finding aged care packages, services and residential aged care, has a specific section for assisting people within the LGBTI community looking for services. They also provide fact sheets on navigating their website and search options to find inclusive providers.

Fact Sheet: Aged Care for LGBTI Elders

Fact Sheet: Finding LGBTI inclusive home care packages

As a provider we are always trying to better ourselves and our commitment to diversity. If you are part of the LGBTI community and you’re concerned about finding a provider that values understanding and a commitment to best practices, talk to us about how we can help.

Osteopathy in Residential Aged Care

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 14:47:27 GMT

As the Australian population ages, the demand for quality care in residential aged care facilities is increasing. Elderly residents in these facilities often face various health challenges that require specialised attention through a multidisciplinary approach. Osteopaths can play an essential role in improving the health and well-being of elderly residents in aged care facilities.

What is an Osteopath?

Osteopaths are highly skilled and experienced professionals who have completed a minimum of 4.5 to 5 years of tertiary study and are trained to assess and treat with a holistic approach to care. Osteopaths conduct clinical evaluations, including anatomical, neurological, orthopaedic, functional, and movement-based assessments.

AN-ACC Funding & Osteopathy

With the introduction of the AN-ACC funding model , osteopaths can play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for residents within residential aged care.

AN-ACC (Australian National Aged Care Classification) is a new funding model that was introduced in 2022. This model aims to provide funding for residential aged care facilities based on the complexity of care needed by each resident. The model considers the resident's clinical complexity, cognitive impairment, behaviour, and mobility. AN-ACC provides more equitable funding for residential aged care facilities, leading to better care for elderly residents.

One of the significant advantages of the AN-ACC funding model is that it recognises the importance of allied health services, including osteopathy. Osteopaths can provide essential services to aged care residents, particularly in the areas of musculoskeletal health, pain management, improving function and maintaining activities of daily life (ALDs).

Some examples of where osteopaths can play a role:

Falls Prevention

Mobility

Acute and chronic pain

In summary, osteopaths can play a crucial role in the care of elderly residents in aged care facilities. With the AN-ACC funding model, osteopaths can provide essential services to residents, improving their quality of life and preventing serious injuries through the use of holistic treatment and management programs .

Autism and Occupational Therapy

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:52:59 GMT

Occupational Therapists use a holistic approach and perspective to work with individuals to support them to promote health, well-being and independence. This is done by enabling and empowering people with a disability, injury or disorder to complete their activities of daily life. This includes self-care activities, social activities or supporting with study and/or employment.

The term ‘occupation’ is used to describe all the everyday things we do in our life roles, but also the things we do to be who we are, the things we do to create a meaningful life and to engage with wider society and culture (OT Australia).

Vivir Healthcare occupational therapists are able to support both children and adults with autism to improve how they communicate, relate to others and complete everyday life tasks important to them.

What is Autism?

Autism also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterised by difficulties in social skills, communication, interests, and repetitive or restricted behaviours and can also include difficulties with activities including sensory processing difficulties.

ASD is sometimes accompanied by other forms of disability including learning or intellectual impairments and whilst Autism is a lifelong condition, occupational therapists can help people with ASD to develop their skills, strengths and adapt their environment to improve functional independence and support people achieve their NDIS goals and live life to its fullest.*

*Information on What is Autism is available at www.autism.org.au

How can Occupational Therapists support someone with Autism?

At Vivir Healthcare, we understand that each person is an individual and our occupational therapists ensure that each assessment and support provided is tailored to each person ensuring a full holistic approach to occupational therapy. We can complete various assessments such as Initial Assessments for ongoing support, Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA) to identify all support needs and recommendations to achieve these and Supported Independent Living Assessments (SIL) if further assessment to support housing is required.

We work closely with the individual with ASD, parents, family members, teachers, employers, and other health professionals such as speech therapists to implement strategies that can develop, adapt, modify or regain skills that someone with ASD finds challenging and help them to work towards achieving their NDIS goals. This includes the completion of an initial assessment allowing the Occupational Therapist to assess areas such as cognitive skills, interactions with others, motor skills, sensory processing and emotional regulation. This helps identify both strengths of the participant and barriers that prevent them from achieving independence in meaningful activities and identifies the level of support needed to overcome these challenges. Every person experiences ASD differently, has different support needs and as a result, requires different skills at each stage of their life from childhood through to adulthood which is reflected in Vivir Healthcare’s assessments and approach in supporting the person with ASD.

Through the use of assessments completed in person (at home, school, work or place of choice) or through the use of telehealth, Vivir Healthcare OTs develop a therapeutic program to help the person achieve their goals. During any ongoing therapy sessions, the participants Occupational Therapy goals and therapeutic intervention provided are reviewed and modified as the person progresses and goals are achieved. Examples of goals and skills may include:

The improvement of daily living skills — including but not limited to dressing, toileting, bathing, mealtime skills, development of a healthy sleep routine, cleaning, shopping, using public transport, understanding and managing finances or meal preparation tasks.
Identifying any sensory processing difficulties — including identifying how the person recognises and processed information from their senses, taste, touch, sound, smell, body awareness and movement. It is important to understand sensory processing to allow the OT to support in decreasing the impact of high sensitivities and seeking behaviours.
Communication, play and social skills – exploring taking turns, engaging in social cues, how to play with toys or use I.T. equipment if of an older age, develop social skills to interact with others and build meaningful relationships,
Fine motor skills – improvement of handwriting, dressing tasks such as tying shoelaces, buttons, opening a lunchbox, manipulating small everyday objects or toys.
Gross motor skills – balance, coordination, posture control, body awareness and position in space.
Cognitive functions – including memory, attention, safety awareness, and problem-solving.
Well-being – supporting to engage in the local community, attend social groups, after-school activities and self-help.

Through the implementation and development of the above skills and goals identified, occupational therapists can support someone with ASD by giving them the tools and skills to develop their self-esteem, confidence, independence, self-determination and help them reach their full potential to live a happy and meaningful life.

Clinician of the Year 2022: Kristy Arvaj

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:05:49 GMT

Our Clinician of the Year award provides the opportunity for us to recognise and reward some of our top-performing clinicians. This year we recieved many high-quality nominations and we got to recognise the great efforts of our team.

We encourage our clinicians to keep nominating their colleagues, and send e-Cards for recognition for 2023.

Our Clinician of the Year

After rigorous review of the nominations and overall performance, we are proud to announce Kristy Arvaj as our Clinician of the Year for 2022.

We asked Kristy to respond to some questions to honour the celebration and her role with Vivir Healthcare. Here's what she had to say...

Q1. What do you enjoy most about being an Occupational Therapist?
I love that every day I get the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of people living in our community, no matter how big or small. As an OT and having a holistic approach to healthcare, provides me with the opportunity to work alongside people to develop their goals and prioritise what is important to them, helping them improve their independence, so for me, I find that incredibly rewarding. I also love the variety that comes with working in homecare, as it allows me to continue to learn and problem-solve each day.

Q2. What is your favourite thing about working with telehealth clients?
I have really enjoyed the clinical growth and problem-solving that the telehealth platform has enabled me to explore as well as seeing clients across the country and the variety that it has provided! Interacting with clients via video has been equally satisfying, hearing about their walks of life and connecting with them on a personal level. It has been rewarding to bridge the gap to accessing healthcare and provide occupational therapy services to clients living in remote locations or areas that have long wait times. The clients are always so grateful.

Q3. What does winning clinician of the year mean to you?
I am incredibly humbled to be awarded the Clinician of the Year 2022. I’m grateful for the recognition of my efforts in supporting the implementation of the telehealth service alongside my incredible colleagues and also in my clinical and team leader role. I’m proud to work with such a supportive management and multidisciplinary team which make putting in 110% each day worth it.

Q4. What would be your advice to any new starters with Vivir?
Working in the community for aged/home care clients is an incredibly rewarding job, so if you are passionate about what you do and are after job satisfaction, this is the role for you! In this role, I have found it to be the perfect balance of autonomy and clinical growth while having access to support when needed. Share your experiences with colleagues to develop shared knowledge and use the learned experiences of others to improve patient outcomes.

Quarterly Winners from 2022

We would also like to take this opportunity to recognise our past quarterly winners, from 2022 who were in the running for Clinician of the Year.

Jamilla Catabay (Physiotherapist VIC)
Sophiya Rajwani (Physiotherapist VIC)
Sarika Goel (Physiotherapist VIC)

Congratulations again to Kristy and thank you to all our clinicians for your efforts!

Learn more about our clinician rewards programs and discover a career in allied health .

Dysphagia and Swallowing 101

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:14:31 GMT

Thursday the 16th of March is Swallowing Awareness Day - but why do we need to be aware of swallowing?

Most people will swallow more than 700 times per day, and this is mostly a reflex and occurs without us thinking about it. When we’re awake, we swallow once a minute in response to how much saliva is in our mouth. When we’re asleep that number drops back to three times an hour. Of course, these numbers jump up even higher when we’re swallowing when eating and drinking!

But what happens when someone has difficulty swallowing?

Swallowing difficulties, or to use the medical term Dysphagia, is a condition that affects around 15 to 30% of people aged over 65 living in their own homes , and more than 50% of people living in residential aged care . It will affect 100% of people living with Dementia at some point, 84% of people with Parkinson’s disease and 65% of people who have had a stroke. The more diagnoses someone has, the more likely they are to develop Dysphagia.

Swallowing is a complex process that uses more than 26 muscles!

The act of swallowing begins from when you see the food, you look toward it and this encourages you to salivate. The saliva lubricates the food, helping us to break the food down and prepare it to be swallowed. Our tongue, teeth, lips and cheeks all work together to prepare the food and make it safe for swallowing. When it’s ready, the tongue transfers the food to the back of the mouth in a conveyer belt-like movement. This then triggers our swallowing reflex, which begins to move the food down the throat, while making sure it doesn’t enter the airway. The airway is pulled forward and up, and a little leaflike cartilage called the epiglottis drops into place, blocking off the airway, while the muscles in the back of throat squeeze the food down into the esophagus.

When something goes wrong with any part of the swallowing mechanism, this can result in dysphagia. Next time you take a bite of your sandwich, try to keep your tongue still; or try drinking water without closing your lips.

But why is Dysphagia an issue?

If the swallowing mechanism is disrupted, then food, fluids or medication can enter the airway and end up in the lungs. This can sometimes lead to an infection, which can be so severe it leads to hospitalisation, and sometimes death. Larger pieces of food can cause a full obstruction of the airway, and if these aren’t dislodged, the person can choke to death. Dysphagia can also lead to issues with malnutrition and dehydration, constipation, and reduced quality of life.

How do you recognise Dysphagia?

A Speech Pathologist can assist in diagnosing and treating dysphagia. Signs to look out for include:

Coughing, choking or throat clearing during or following eating and/or drinking
Changes in how the voice sounds after eating and/or drinking
Shortness of breath during or following mouthfuls
Oral and/or nasal regurgitation
Unexplained weight loss
Difficulty coordinating breathing and swallowing
Holding food in the mouth for a long time and not clearing it adequately
Multiple swallows per mouthful
Reduced control of saliva

A Speech Pathologist can manage dysphagia by:

Rehabilitation
Provision of risk management strategies (e.g. positioning, safe feeding)
Modifying food and fluid consistencies
Encouraging improved oral care

You should refer to a Speech Pathologist whenever you are concerned about your own or another person’s eating, chewing, drinking or swallowing. You can enquire about our Speech Pathology services via our contact us page.

A New Years Message: Executive General Manager, Karen Leighton

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 15:18:46 GMT

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a lovely break and spent some well-deserved downtime with your family and friends over the festive period. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated clinical workforce and our extended support office team members who worked, ensuring the continuation of essential services.

Year in Reflection

2022 was certainly another testing year for us all with respect to the continued impact of COVID. These challenges however did not deter the business in pushing forward on the necessary strategic planning on preparing the business for aged care reform.

Introduction of AN-ACC

With AN-ACC (Australian National Aged Care Classification) replacing the ACFI (Aged Care Funding Instrument) funding model across the Residential Sector the key strategy for Vivir was to remodel our service options with the focus on active maintenance and reablement of residents.

Vivir’s successful launch of alternative service options including Allied Health Group Exercise Program which was modelled on the SUNBEAM program provides our trusted customers with the confidence that their residents will continue to benefit from keeping, and improving physical function, health, and wellbeing.

Whilst we embrace the much-needed requirements of Aged Care reform, we stay optimistic that the department will eventually mandate minimum Allied Health Minutes across the residential sector thus ensuring Residents continue to have access and receive the necessary support they need and deserve.

Telehealth Transformation

The pandemic has certainly accelerated the need for digital transformation, Vivir continues to report significant growth on our Telehealth to You (TH2U) and Telehealth (TH) service delivery options within Residential, Community and Disability services.

This innovation has supported reducing wait times for users accessing essential Allied Health support and has provided Vivir with the ability to extend its geographical reach to regional and remote communities Nationally.

Investment in Disability Services

Early last year Vivir continued its investment into strengthening our disability service footprint, with the appointment of Robert Kilpatrick as Vivir’s National Operational Manager, this addition now completes the full composition of Vivir’s Leadership team.

Robert Joins our other five Senior Leaders:

Further Reform in 2023

With the next phase of Aged Care reform where we will see the introduction of the Support at Home program, Vivir will continue to strategically prepare the business as we gear up for more change.

We are excited to welcome this next phase of the reform as further funding will be provided to Senior Australians to ensure they receive the support when and where they need it. We will see further simplification to current practices on accessibility, increased value for money in addition to improved quality and Safety measures .

The new model of care will aim to tailor specific care needs rather than care to fit within a package level. Older Australians will also have a greater choice between what provider they wish to use.

Moving Forward

With respect to our disability service options, Vivir will continue to invest and improve access for participants who are eligible for disability funding. We will be actively working with our strategic partners and end users on providing further education on how they can access and make the most of their funding on therapy services to improve day-to-day daily living activities.

Another focus this year will be supplying the necessary training and development of our dedicated Allied Health workforce to become a hybrid mobile workforce. This move will enable further improvement on service optimisation to meet the demands of our customers across all the sectors we serve.

I think it’s safe to say we have a busy and exciting year ahead – and I for one cannot wait to get started!

Telehealth 2 U and Closing the Gap

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:27:50 GMT

Telehealth 2 You, Allied Health Assistants, and Closing the Healthcare Gap.

In this month’s blog, we spoke to Susannah Neame, Vivir Healthcare’s Virtual and Indigenous Operations Manager to discuss all things telehealth (digital health services), Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) and closing the healthcare gap for Indigenous communities. See the interview below!

What is Telehealth 2 You?

Vivir’s Telehealth 2 You service (TH2U) is an innovative virtual service that supports the delivery of allied healthcare (Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech pathology and Dietetics) to rural or remote locations throughout Australia.

How does it work?

Once Vivir has a contract for services established with a Service Provider a referral can be made via the Vivir Telehealth referral form. The referral form is provided as a PDF or via the Vivir website .

Vivir then employ a local Allied Health Assistant (AHA) to facilitate the assessment. The AHA is equipped with a device that is internet-connected and they work under the guidance of the Healthcare Professional who can virtually assess and document the correct findings and therefore, interventions.

The AHA provides the in-person support during the review by attending the care receivers’ home, community space or equipment store and assists with tasks such as measuring for home modifications (e.g. grab rails or threshold ramps) or overseeing exercises prescribed by the Health Professional.

This service must help reach more and more people who require healthcare but might not be able to receive it so easily. How does Vivir intend for it to help in ‘closing the healthcare gap’?

Closing the healthcare gap is a big driver for Vivir and we are hopeful for what this service can achieve in rural communities.

The TH2U model specifically supports allied health navigation and provision within the Indigenous communities. Vivir are currently undertaking a journey, and in conversations with Indigenous Community Elders and Health Providers to better understand the healthcare wants of aging remote and Indigenous communities.

Vivir have taken a holistic approach to closing the gap; as well as supporting direct healthcare provisions, we are looking to support closing the gap by seeking expressions of interests of those with experience, or keen to work as AHAs, or Aboriginal Outreach workers.

Vivir have training modules to support the upskilling of Indigenous community members and rural community members into this role. The Vivir virtual team are also supported with cultural appreciation, competency and awareness training.

That sounds great, has there been any feedback on the telehealth services so far?

The feedback has been very positive with Service Providers acknowledging the benefits of timely healthcare interventions balanced with the reduced costs due to omitting travel fees. One remote services provider provided this glowing testimonial:

"Etheridge Cares is a remote Community Aged Care and Disability program located approximately 6hr west of Carins. We do not have ready access to Allied Health when it is required and cannot use homecare packages to access the QLD Health Services that do come to the region.

Susannah has been instrumental in walking me through the process of working and accessing Vivir healthcare for our clients. The turnaround time has been very quick and prompt. Our care recipients were surprised that they did not have to wait months to see any allied health services and received their recommended equipment in a timely manner.

I have spoken highly of Susannah and her team to many other community-managed rural and remote programs as well as the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care. We are privileged to be working with Vivir Health Care, Susannah and the team."

- Etheridge Cares, Remote Services Provider

If you would like to enquire about our Telehealth To You program, you can contact us directly online or by calling us on 1300 184 847 .

Launching Our AN-ACC Funded Programs

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:39:32 GMT

Success Story: AN-ACC Restorative Programs

With the recent evolution in National Aged Care funding, the further implementation of exciting and long-awaited reform in the sector, and the launch of Vivir's new service lines being operationalised (since May 2022) and now ramping up across many states, we wanted to provide a progress update on how our workforce is managing this industry transformation.

The transition from ACFI to the new funding model, AN-ACC , has been a journey for many in our business, and so we also wanted to take an opportunity to celebrate this milestone in our business, the hard work from our team members who made these changes possible and the most importantly the results from all of this hard work. For us learning how we make lives better is what make it all worth it. So, without further ado, here is what our clinicians and clients had to say our best our new AN-ACC funded allied health programs...

The Clinician Experience

Find out directly from four of our team members, what it's like in the field with the rollout of our AN-ACC funded allied health programs. Here is what they had to say:

“Vivir's service lines are providing great care for residents across the nation. Our team can easily adapt our care and offering to residents and facility’s needs. No longer are we restricted by language or a definition of care. Instead, we can provide the right level of care to residents, as they need them.

I've worked at four different facilities each month, and each facility has had a different and unique offering, which makes my job more interesting and is better for the residents. It's an exciting time to be working in Aged Care.”

- Tyler, Canberra

“Aged care industry has transitioned to AN-ACC from ACFI this year which allows clinicians to deliver a more evidence-based and patient-centred approach to deal with their individual client's needs to improve the quality of life. As per my experience with residents in aged care they stated they find the new Wellness Program, which includes exercise group sessions and 1:1 session, more useful as they feel motivated with other residents during group exercises and encourage fellow residents. They socialise more often which is good for their mental well-being.

I work across multiple facilities and being able to change what we do for each resident at each facility is great.”

- Asiya, Perth

“As part of the 'Wellness Program' at Mercy Place, Fernhill, we have chosen to run group classes through a holistic approach. By implementing these group classes such as seated exercises, yoga & mindfulness classes and walking groups, our aim is to improve residents’ quality of life not only on a physical level but also on an emotional, social and cognitive level.

With our evidence-based mind & body interventions and pranayama practices (breathing exercises), active participants have reported increased relaxation, confidence, improved balance, posture and body awareness, which will also allow us to create effective outcomes in reduction of falls rates at Fernhill. Our structured group classes, gentle & mindful chair exercises and practices have been a unique opportunity to improve our residents’ emotional wellbeing, particularly after the Covid lockdowns in the last two years.

As Vivir Physiotherapy team, Han, Berna and Aravind, we are also so happy to learn that Fernhill residents have learnt so many practical techniques from our classes so they can incorporate those practices easily and effectively into their daily lives immediately after our group classes without the need of any equipment and in the comfort of a chair.”

- Berna Gungoren, Melbourne

“We transitioned into our Wellness Program from 1st October 2022.

Based on the individual, our care plans can focus on the residents' needs and goals and construct the sessions accordingly with evidence-based exercises and treatments. Residents specifically enjoy one-on-one outdoor walks with allied health team, and it has helped many residents to improve their balance and walking endurance. We can focus on education and correction of their gait pattern and posture to prevent falls and reduce pain. Our focus for non-ambulatory residents is to encourage them to do bedside exercises that help improve bed mobility and prevent the development of contractures.

Group exercise classes are fun-filled classes with evidence-based exercises, different each week depending upon the participants’ mobility and functional status. We offer and construct Parkinson’s specific coordination and balance exercise classes to prevent falls, improve balance and functions to be independent and be able to complete day-to-day tasks and improve quality of life. Evidence-based breathing exercises with “laughter wellness” at the end of each class make our classes unique. “Laughter wellness” brings joy, happiness, positivity on our residents’ faces, it improves their emotional wellbeing and helps to build a good relationship with co-residents. These fun-filled sessions motivate the residents to attend consistently. Vivir clinicians have established a meaningful connection with residents and are truly able to “make lives better” through our ongoing exercise classes.

Vivir Healthcare Support, Operations and Managed Services teams have supported us throughout the process, provided us with the important and informative guidelines and made the transition smoother and easier for the clinical workforce so we could focus on our daily work and provide the best possible care for our residents. Vivir clinicians are having a lot of fun and enjoy conducting and running group exercise classes as well as one-on-one sessions.

We have developed professional and social skills through the unique challenges the Wellness Program provides. The AN-ACC transition has provided us with an opportunity for growth and professional development. We allied health professionals can now focus on any evidence-based practice not just therapeutic massage."

- Nupur, Melbourne

The Client Experience

Our Physiotherapist Nupur spoke to four residents, who wanted to provide specific feedback on their experiences to date. These four residents were previously serviced under the Pain Management model, and have now been receiving Wellness services or Group Exercise Therapy for the past six months under Vivir's new service lines. Here is what they had to say:

"The exercises give us the necessary movements to keep us going. Mentally keeps us alert as we do the movements by counting in 2s, 3s, 5s and so on… (20 by 2, 30 by 3, 50 by 5 and so on). At the end of the session my physiotherapist makes us all laugh in a variety of ways which makes us all very happy."

- Mrs F on Group Exercises

"The exercises helped me a lot. My body is different. I can move easily and have less pain than before. The laughter helps me relax after a good session of exercises."

- Mrs J on Wellness Program & Exercise Classes

"We find ourselves stiff but with warm-up exercises we feel our bones, muscles loosening and relaxing. The standing exercises are beneficial as it helps us to build strength and also confidence. Physio taught us exercises which we can practice daily so we become stronger day by day and gradually pain is manageable and exercises helps us to cope with the bad days."

- Mrs A on Wellness Program and Exercises

"One word – encapsulates it all. Excellence. Why? Before – not raise arms above shoulder. Now swing both round and round and round, Merry go round. Pain – both legs knees up gone. Quintessence of therapy, interact with teacher. 'Body and mind' mot follow the robot. Start with smiles end with joy. Don’t stun or reduce. Twice? 'Icing on the cake'."

- Mr R. on Wellness Program and Exercises

The successful rollout of these AN-ACC funded Restorative Programs is an exciting milestone for Vivir Healthcare. If you’re in aged care and are looking for allied health programs under this new funding model, then contact us at info@vivir.com.au or make an enquiry through our website.

OT Week: What OT Means to Me

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 04:07:42 GMT

This year, OT Week runs from the 24th to the 30th of October with World Occupational Therapy Day being held on the 27th October 2022.

OT Week is a National Week held annually, that provides us with the opportunity to celebrate and talk about all things occupational therapy. Occupational Therapists do an incredibly important job at Vivir Healthcare and work across our Homecare , Disability Services and Residential team.

What OT Means To Me

The theme for Occupational Therapy Week 2022 is “What OT means to me”. This theme enables the entire Occupational Therapy community to shine a spotlight on the care and professionalism OTs deliver to their clients. In the spirit of this theme, we asked seven Vivir Healthcare Occupational Therapists to describe what occupational therapy means to them. Here is what they had to say:

Bavinta, NSW

Being a Community Occupational Therapist in the aged care sector means being a problem solver, counselor, advocate, and clinical expert. To ensure I can promote healthy aging at home through enablement, engagement, and empowerment.

Rebecca, Victoria

“Being an OT to me means I'm privlidged in meeting so many different and inspiring people, being allowed into their lives to help them achieve goals that are meaningful to them. It's incredible that we get to work alongside others and problem solve, share our knowledge and ultimately improve their quality of life- with smiles along the way!

Kathleen, NSW

“Being an aged care Community OT to me, means more than safety and independence and staying at home as long as possible. It's also giving back dignity to people who at times feel they have lost all their identity and purpose as they have aged. I feel so grateful to be able to meet, sit with and talk to all of my clients and to see their huge smiles and sighs of relief even if it was simply making standing up that little bit easier.

Delia, Queensland

“For me, working as an OT for the Vivir Community Team, means connecting with people in their home and supporting them to live their best life."

Lucy, Queensland

Being an OT to me in the NDIS space, means being able to visit people in their location of choice, helping them to identify their goals and ways we can help them achieve this. Helping someone to engage in meaningful activities to promote their independence is a priviage to be a part of.

Dee. Queensland

Being an OT, working in the NDIS space for me, means connecting with people, helping them to identify their goals and advocate for them to make an impactful change in their life.

Elaime, Victoria

Being an OT means to be able to help people to solve practical problems in everyday life with the ultimate goal of restoring their capacity to engage and participate in tasks, activities and relationships. It is seen the world through the lens of inclusion, diversity and creative possibilities.

Thank you to our Occupational Therapists in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria for sharing your statements. And thank you to each of our Occupational therapists, who make a difference throughout Australia. We are so appreciative of your work, and what you do for your residents, clients, participants and the community!

Do you prefer to watch videos? View and share our OT Week video below.

To learn more about Occupational Therapy read our introductory blog on the services OTs provide .

Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 04:12:40 GMT

Physiotherapists can use many different techniques and modalities to help you to achieve your goals, maintain independence, and achieve optimal health and well-being. A physiotherapist can complete a thorough assessment and talk through what your main concerns are, what goals you wish to achieve, and create a personalised rehabilitation program to suit your individual needs.

There are several treatments that a physiotherapist can use to help you to achieve wellness; these include advice and education, encouragement and support, strengthening exercises, range of motion exercises, mobility exercises, balance exercises, walking aid prescription, manual therapy such as massage or joint mobilisations, dry needling, and hydrotherapy.

What is hydrotherapy and how can it help?

Hydrotherapy (also known as water-based therapy, aquatic therapy, or pool therapy) is exercise-based therapy performed in the water, instead of on land. Physiotherapists can provide you with an individualised exercise program, while using the natural therapeutic benefits of warm water.

Hydrotherapy may be used to:

Reduce and manage pain
Decrease load and stress on joints
Encourage muscle relaxation
Improve mobility
Improve cardiovascular fitness
Improve muscle strength
Improve balance and reduce falls risk
Improve swelling and oedema
Improve co-ordination
Improve circulation
Improve joint range of motion

Water-based exercise allows you to exercise in an environment which uses the physical properties of water- such as the changes in density, pressure, buoyancy, and resistance to your advantage.

The effects of the water allow you to perform movements in the pool with reduced load and stress on your joints and muscles; allowing for improvements in strength and mobility while the water supports your weight. The warmth and buoyancy of the water helps to relieve pain and increase the range of motion in your joints. This is especially beneficial for those who find walking or weight bearing activities difficult. The water can also be used to provide resistance to improve muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness for heart and lung health.

How do hydrotherapy sessions work?

Your physiotherapist will complete a thorough assessment before starting hydrotherapy, including a review of your medical history and screening questionnaire to ensure that it is safe to take you into the pool. The physiotherapist will meet you at the hydrotherapy pool. These sessions are one-on-one and the physiotherapist will be in the pool alongside you to guide you through the exercises. Exercising in water can be modified to be as challenging or supportive as you need.

Hydrotherapy can benefit people with varying levels of ability and mobility; most hydrotherapy pools are installed with ramps and rails to make it easy to access the water even if you have reduced confidence on land.

If you would like to learn more about our allied health services , including how hydrotherapy can work for you, please get in touch with our support team today.

Physiotherapy Gym Grand Opening!

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 04:18:52 GMT

Mildred Symon's Gym Grand Opening

Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapists Di Maxwell and Occupational Therapist Lucy Zhang have recently supported the grand opening of Anglicare’s Mildred Symons House Physio Gym.

Entering the facility at Jannali and shown around by site lead clinician Di, you could feel the buzz and excitement of the day from both residents and staff members. The residents all greet Di with smiles and cheeky remarks. Di’s enthusiasm for the new physio gym is infectious.

“This gym will help increase safe mobility by managing pain, improving strength and range of movement. It also creates a supportive positive environment for the residents to encourage each other with their fitness goals."

- Di Maxwell, Physiotherapist, Vivir Healthcare

The physiotherapy gym will further support residents’ self-confidence. The gym has fit balls, hand weights and strap weights, pedal exercisers, mirrored walls with a handrail, shoulder pulleys, theraband and balance disks.

As the time pushes closer to the grand opening, the residents, of all ages and abilities, start to make their way to the gym. One resident is 101 years old and when asked what his secret to a long life is, his response is “to remain active and exercise”.

The clock strikes 10 and the ribbon is cut by Care Manager Sarah Riach to officially mark the opening. Sarah remarks how great it is to see all the residents ready to engage with the gym. A total of 22 residents have signed up straight away for initial appointments; an encouraging sign.

The day is full of demonstrations of their ergonomically designed equipment for older people. The Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapy team, are offering one-to-one program evaluations, health and fitness assessments and the creation of exercise plans to achieve individual residents’ goals.

There will also be small groups three times a week for more intensive activity, such as fit ball, weights, cycling class and standing balance which will complement the ongoing daily gentle exercise classes.

This physiotherapy gym aims to provide residents with the opportunity to establish routine to exercise and improve their wellbeing. Numerous studies report multiple benefits from exercise for residents in aged care facilities, including improved mental health , decrease risk of falls , increase social engagement and improved cognitive function.

At Vivir Healthcare we are all about making lives better so it was exciting to see many residents eager to participate. This gym is a fantastic addition to Mildred Symon's House and we know it will make a difference in the lives of their residents.

Why OTs Use Standardised Assessments

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 04:26:51 GMT

As Occupational Therapists (OTs) working within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) , we complete a comprehensive assessment process in order to ensure that we can fully understand our participants' needs and provide a suitable service

The process of assessment involves the OT’s collecting information and clinically observing the participant’s medical, physiological, social and psychological function in order to understand how best the OT can provide effective intervention within the NDIS framework in line with the participants' needs.

Assessment is usually undertaken with observation of the NDIS participant and their environment. As part of this process, it is likely that our OT’s may use a number of NDIS sanctioned standardised assessment tools (standardised assessments) and outcome measures to complement our clinical observation and comprehensive assessment process.

What are Standardised Assessments and Outcome Measures?

Standardised assessments are formal assessments that have been designed to measure your abilities, functional capacity and different factors such as motor skills, cognitive capacity, sensory processing that may effect your performance and independence in daily life. To ensure consistency in assessment and recommended intervention, the NDIA developed their ‘preferred assessment tool suite’.

These tools are standardised assessments that have been assessed against the NDIS domains of function and identified as ‘best practice’ for therapist use. They can be used to form and validate a diagnosis and/or guide recommended treatments. Some standardised assessments can also be used to measure the improvement in the participant’s presentation as a result of clinical intervention and service delivery. These standardised assessments are commonly also known as outcome measurement tools because they also provide a means to compare the clinical outcome or improvement of the participant.

How is this different from other types of assessments?

As Occupational Therapists we use our clinical observation skills to form part of your tailored assessment based on our knowledge and interactions with our participants. This can include completion of specific tasks with participants however these tasks can be modified according to your level of independence, skill, comprehension or confidence. This contributes to the development and evaluation of goals.

A standardised assessment is another type of formal structured assessment completed by healthcare professionals. These tools are not subjective and must be conducted using a standard format. Following assessment completion, the results will further support and clinically evidence the formation of your goals, therapy plans and/or interventions.

Why do we have Standardised Assessments and Outcome Measures?

Standardised assessments and outcome measurement tools form part of your comprehensive assessment and is a beneficial structure that helps both the Occupational Therapist and their participants. They provide a clear score that can be used to give a picture of where any functional deficits or challenges you experience lie in comparison to other people benchmarking against different attributes such as age. It also helps the NDIA benchmark and assesses the diagnosis and treatments of NDIS participants to ensure the NDIS ACT 2022 (Amendments) criteria is followed appropriately ensuring effective use of your plan funds.

Using Outcome measures as part of the comprehensive assessment process provides the OT with an additional understanding of how the participant has responded to treatment and therapies – this enables OT’s to utilise the same outcome measure at your NDIS Plan review to demonstrate improvement following implementation of your OT interventions. This can further support the requirement for ongoing Occupational Therapy in your upcoming plans.

What are other benefits of Standardised Assessments?

Standardised assessments are also internationally recognised which support healthcare professionals when assessing and developing therapy plans and interventions – If using a Standardised assessment with a child for example, their results may be provided in terms of their percentile rank – this is another way of explaining where their score sits in comparison to other children their age including across continents.

For Occupational Therapists, the standardised assessment support them in building up and incorporating a body of evidence for their occupational therapy practices, recommendations, and therapy plans. It provides your OT’s with more information to make evidence-based decisions about the best course of care and potential interventions.

The incorporation of these standardised assessments is considered the gold standard and best practice providing the optimum assessment outcome for you.

What does Vivir Healthcare use?

Vivir Healthcare utilise the NDIS ‘preferred assessment tool suite’. We elected to employ these tools in addition to other forms of assessment to ensure our comprehensive reports and therapy plans provide evidence of reliability, validity, practicality and work within your daily life.

Our Occupational Therapists discuss the assessment results with you and/or your families and how this contributes to the development of your OT therapy plan.

Using these assessment tools, clinical observations, and ongoing consultation, we can offer a tailored approach and the best support to help you achieve your identified goals and live your life to the fullest.

Examples of Standardised Assessments and Outcome Measures

World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) 2.0

This is a practical assessment that is used to capture the level of functioning in 6 domains of life including Cognition, Mobility, Self Care, Getting along with others, Life activities and participation in the community. This assessment is a generic measure which means it is not targeted for use with a specific condition however allows us as OT’s to utilise the instrument to assess health, disability levels and design and monitor the impact your health conditions have on your daily life.

VINELAND 3 Assessment

This is a leading assessment used in supporting the diagnosis of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through completion of this assessment, OT’s can extract vital information to help develop therapy plans identifying areas that a person can find challenging or where they may present with some difficulties.

CARE AND NEED SCALE (CANs)

The CANs is a clinician rating scale, designed to amalgamate information obtained from a range of sources and is to document support needs required for everyday functional activities and community living. It was originally designed for use with participants in the community who have a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) however can be used to identify the level of support needs you have ranging from very high to minimal requirements.

To know what to expect at a typical Occupational Therapy assessment read our OT 101 guide, you can also explore our website to find out more about our NDIS Occupational Therapy services or contact ndis@vivir.com.au .

To make a referral and book in our Occupational Therapists, complete our referral form here .

Transformation in Homecare

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 04:38:00 GMT

As many of you may be aware, Australia's Aged Care sector, and specifically the Homecare space, is undergoing significant transition with a number of reformed funding models and programs being legislated into effect over the coming years.

Support at Home Program

In addition to the reform relating to the 2023 Aged Care Act, from July 2023, the Support at Home Program will replace the following existing programmes and packages:

Commonwealth Health Support Programme (CHSP)
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme
Residential Respite programs

On March 8, 2022, our Clinical Excellence team participated in a webinar run by the Department of Health, which provided an update on the new Support at Home program's design, challenges, language and what to expect over the coming months. The webinar may be viewed here .

Support at Home FAQs

Why are the Support at Home reforms occurring?

To better ensure Senior Australians get the support they need when and where they need it
To make in-home Aged Care easier and simpler to use
To increase value for money
To improve accountability for quality and safety

What will the Support at Home Program improve?

The new program will focus on supporting individuals, tailored care, clarity, regulation and competition. It aims to do this through the following:

Tailored care specific to the individual's needs rather than care to fit within a package level, model or formula
Assistive Technologies, Goods and Modifications can be purchased for the individual's needs, when they need them, rather than only being available after a certain level of funds have been saved up
Service providers will be paid quicker at the point of delivery and with streamlined reporting obligations
Individuals will have greater choice between providers

An Integrated Assessment Tool

A new assessment tool is being developed to better match services to an individual's needs. The new tool will replace existing assessments such as: ACAT, RAS and NSAF and will be applicable for home care, residential aged care, transitional care and respite.

The way the assessment is conducted will depend upon the answers provided to each question, in a trigger-point model.

The assessment's outcomes will provide classes of funding for the individual's assessed care needs for a range of domains including:

General and Personal Health
Functional Decline
Cognition
Behaviour
Medical Conditions
Carer Support

Further information on the new Integrated Assessment Tool will be released through 2022, with its expected launch to be in July 2023.

Changes for Clinicians & Clients

Individualised Assessment Outcomes

Following their assessment using the new Integrated Assessment Tool, the individual will receive an Individualised Support Plan. The plan (outlined in an example below), will provide a guide on the service required and the frequency (or funding associated)- against each domain.

The Support Plan will be created by the assessor, with assistance and guidance from the individual. Much of this plan will consist of " frequency and level of support " rather than a " dollar value ". However, some domains will continue to list requirements in monetary figures (further information below) .

Home Modifications and Goods, Equipment and Assistive Technologies (GEAT)

The Department is still working on a plan to make access to Home Modifications and GEAT easier and cheaper to access for all. They have confirmed, that no longer will individuals need to " save " and/or " accumulate " enough funds to receive these important supports to maintain independence. The requirement for these supports will be within the new Integrated Assessment Tool, but consultation on this is ongoing.

Short Term Restorative Care (STRC)

Presently, the STRC package is available for up to eight weeks. Under the Support at Home Model (which STRC will be integrated into) , services will now be available for up to twelve weeks with a greater focus on reablement and restoring one’s independence. Under the integrated model, should an individual require ongoing services at the end of their initial twelve-week period, they will undergo a reassessment which may recommend ongoing reablement or greater support services to match the individual's needs.

Unspent Funds

No longer will unspent funds be able to be accumulated and/or pooled. Similarly, providers will only be paid for the services delivered. If an individual were to go on a holiday and not require cleaning and/or in-person rehabilitation services, the individual will not accrue this money for "future use" and the provider will not be paid for a service not delivered.

Care Manager

The termed role " Case Manager " will be replaced by " Care Manager " under the Support at Home Program.

Regional and Remote Clients

Grants (yet to be formally announced) will be available for clinicians and providers to deliver services to clients residing in remote and/or difficult to service areas.

There are a number of workshops relating to the Support at Home Program and the upcoming reform to the Aged Care Act, to be announced throughout the remainder of 2022.

We expect these changes to fundamentally change how services are funded, managed and delivered in the Homecare space; with improved quality and accessibility to Vivir's Allied Health services and care being fundamental to these changes.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please reach out to our team .

Introduction to AN-ACC Framework

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 04:42:49 GMT

What is AN-ACC?

The Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) framework is the newly proposed residential funding and assessment model that will ultimately replace ACFI. The new model aims to improve upon ACFI’s shortfalls by introducing an improved funding and finance landscape where resident assessments, subsequent funding and staffing requirements are approached from a holistic perspective.

From the introduction of this classification, a resident’s physical capacity, cognitive capacity, mental health needs and behaviour will be better accounted for.

The move from ACFI to AN-ACC will be a significant shift in the way Aged Care is both delivered and funded for in Australia. Whilst there are still many questions as to the mechanics of the roll-out, one thing is certain in that care for all older Australians will be viewed through a very different framework post AN-ACC implementation.

We have previously also answered some brief questions about the AN-CC in this article .

How will AN-ACC impact our Service lines?

The AN-ACC model will influence the Residential space specifically, having little to no impact on the delivery of NDIS and Homecare services. The fundamental difference will be seen in the lack of minimum care minutes required for allied health. In contrast to ACFI where specific allocations of allied health time were mandated, AN-ACC will only regulate for nursing care minutes.

In short, this places further emphasis on providers of allied health to market their range of services to best accommodate to the needs of residents in aged care facilities.

In response to this change, Vivir has already developed a suite of new service offerings to cater for the ongoing need for allied health intervention within homes. These new services will look to address the assessed needs of care recipients and cater for all population types – targeting all levels of functional ability through a comprehensive set of evidence-based programs. You can view our current residential offerings here .

When will AN-ACC come into play?

The AN-ACC model will take effect from October 1st, 2022. Although not formally passed through legislation, industry expects this to pass post federal election given the model currently enjoys bipartisan support. Naturally, both aged care and allied health providers alike will need to be prepared for the Oct 1st date well in advance on the commencement day. As such, we are already seeing a strong appetite from aged care providers to move in advance of the transition date and uptake new services as quickly as possible.

How will AN-ACC impact clinicians?

Our clinicians will continue to be the core focus of our business. Vivir enjoy a wealth of experience and knowledge within our workforce, and we are excited about the many new opportunities that are coming. Given the need for new service offerings in place of existing ACFI based programs, many clinicians will be able to facilitate the changes to allied health service delivery and be part of the changing landscape of the sector. Vivir’s support team will be releasing more information in the coming months on what to expect and how to participate in this exciting change.

How will AN-ACC impact clients?

As discussed, our clients are already preparing for the new finding landscape the AN-ACC model will bring. This means a move away from ACFI based programs and an appetite to introduce a suite of new programs Vivir are offering. Along with new allied health program opportunities, our clients will also be managing a myriad of other changes to their business model that will affect their day-to-day operations. Ultimately, the way care is delivered to older Australians will significantly change from Oct 1st, 2022.

As always, Vivir remains ready to facilitate this change with our existing clients and partner with those wishing to take the next step in delivering exceptional allied health care to their residents. Get in touch to find out more.

Supporting Speech: A Case Study

Mon, 16 May 2022 04:51:18 GMT

Speech and Language Pathology Case Study

Betty* was living independently in her home, until a stroke left her unable to move from the floor for three days before she was found. She was unable to communicate in a functional manner that ensured her safety in her own home, and she moved into a residential aged care facility.

When she was initially assessed for her swallowing, the Speech Pathologist also noticed Betty’s overt communication difficulties and referred her for ongoing services.

Reason for Referral:

Coughing on everything she ate/drank
Placed on thickened fluids and a pureed diet (which she was refusing)

Assessment

1. Documentation Review

Prior to meeting Betty, the Speech Pathologist’s approach included a detailed assessment of Betty’s medical history including a review of:

MRI-brain and CT-brain scans
Hospital discharge summary
Speech Pathology handover from her hospital admission
Documentation completed by nursing and medical staff

2. Dysphagia (swallowing) assessment.

Cranial Nerve Examination
Oral Trials

Upon meeting Betty, the Speech Pathologist noticed that she was having significant difficulties communicating. Despite having clear speech, Betty spoke only one or two words at a time, and often these words did not match the context (e.g. saying cup instead of plate) . This indicated that Betty would benefit from another form of assessment.

3. Language Assessment

Expressive (ability to convey language)
Receptive (ability to understand spoken or written language)

Assessment Results

Betty’s chest had remained clear since her admission, indicating that no food or fluid had gathered bacteria after accidentally making its way into her lungs (no evidence of aspiration pneumonia) . Her brain scans indicated that she had experienced a left-medullary stroke. The location of this stroke was reflected in her cranial nerve examination where Betty demonstrated some right-sided weakness resulting in a facial droop.

She also showed increased coughing during conversation, and a significant amount of saliva in her mouth the more she attempted to speak. As reported by the nursing staff, she coughed inconsistently when provided with both food and fluid, regardless of if the fluid was thickened or the consistency of the food changed (e.g. pureed) .

In her language assessment, Betty demonstrated that she was able to understand everything that was said to her, she was just unable to effectively respond verbally. She was able to produce automatic responses (e.g. her name, the days of the week, counting) however was unable to name items, despite identifying that she ‘knew the name’, commonly referred to as the name being ‘on the tip of the tongue’.

A staff member entered the room during the assessment and did not speak to Betty at all as she performed her regular clinical observations (e.g. blood pressure, temperature) . Betty grabbed the pen from the Speech Pathologist and wrote ‘no one speaks’ on the assessment booklet.

Treatment

Betty’s intervention plan included weekly therapy for her communication that consisted of:

Initial introduction of compensatory strategies to allow Betty to get her basic wants and needs met within the context of the facility
Staff training as to Betty’s communication capabilities and the degree of understanding she had
Intervention targeting her word retrieval and her ability to construct sentences (e.g. Betty wore pants vs. pants wore Betty)
Introduction of an augmentative and alternative communication device with software that allowed Betty to press a button represented by a picture and for the device to produce the selected word

Her coughing with meals was assisted by differential diagnosis of the cause of her coughing. Her glossopharyngeal nerve had been damaged by her stroke, resulting in referred damage to Betty’s parotid gland which was producing too much saliva. As her mouth and throat filled with more saliva, Betty coughed to clear it. The Speech Pathologist consulted with her neurologist, and Betty received botox injections to her salivary gland, causing it to function more effectively. This stopped her coughing during meals and in conversation.

Outcome

After one year of therapy, Betty was using her communication device to augment her own speech. If she was unable to convey what she wanted, she would use the device to do so, allowing her to begin to interact with other residents in the facility.

She developed a strong friendship with a group of four other women within the facility, who played Scrabble at 10am every Tuesday. She was able to regain autonomy with her communication, and care staff were more patient with her, rather than assuming that her difficulty communicating did not mean that she was unable to understand.

Betty continued to receive botox injections every 3-6 months and experienced no further episodes of coughing with meals, and was able to eat and drink as to her preference.

If you found this case study valuable then we encourage you to read our Physiotherapy case study . To talk to us about this case study or any Speech Pathology queries please contact us .

*Some names have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals

ANZAC Day Activities for Seniors

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 04:57:08 GMT

ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance that commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in military operations.

Commemorating ANZAC Day provides an opportunity for older Australians to:

reflect on the past
take part in cultural customs
be recognised for sacrifices they may have made
express their appreciation for the lives they have had due to the sacrifices many have made

All of this can improve social skills, community engagement, communication skills, self-esteem, and stimulate cognition.

But sometimes it can be challenging to think of easy activities for seniors, or people living with disabilities, to participate in for ANZAC Day; that is why we have created our Top 6 List!

Whether you're running a residential aged care facility or caring for someone at home, these engaging ideas make participating in this year's ANZAC Day as easy as baking an ANZAC biscuit.

Top 6 Senior Friendly Activities for ANZAC DAY

1. Engage Residents in a service

Ask if any residents wish to read a poem at the service about the war, recite the Ode or participate with other parts of the service. Many residents will not respond to open calls, so be sure to approach Veterans individually. They may be more comfortable with a personalised approach.

2. Wreaths for a crafts activity

Craft activities can be a fantastic way to engage all residents and share stories in a welcoming environment. Wreaths are flowers and leaves woven into a circle. They are traditionally laid on graves and memorials in memory of the dead. However, they are used as a symbol of bravery, strength, and triumph - and are staples of ANZAC Day commemorations each ear.

3. Baking ANZAC Biscuits

ANZAC biscuits are made using rolled oats, flour, sugar, butter (or margarine). ANZAC Biscuits were sent by civilians and women's groups to soldiers abroad during World War I, because the ingredients were all non-perishable when combined, the biscuits kept-well during naval transportation. Though sold at supermarkets to raise money for the RSL, they can be made easily at Residential Aged Care Facilities and are very enjoyable when freshly baked.

4. Reminiscing sessions
Reminiscing can be an extremely important way of managing emotions and milestones for those living in Aged Care. Many residents are veterans, war widows, or widowers, and ANZAC day particularly can reignite many memories or emotions. Reminiscing can really help aged care workers get to know their residents better, while it also helps the person telling the stories to feel listened to, valued and important.

5. ANZAC Day themed Paintings

When people think of ANZAC Day, they have many images on their mind. Using paintings to share one's understanding, experience and history with ANZAC Day is a great way to get to know residents better, and allow them to share what they see when they think of ANZAC Day. Painting is a skill more accessible to many residents than crafts, so the quality of outcomes will likely lead to some fascinating artwork to demonstrate throughout a facility.

6. Bring a guest speaker in

Inviting an active military guest speaker to share current stories relating to the military can be an extremely unique and enlightening experience for residents. With many residents being veterans or married to a veteran, their understanding of what a military person experiences in 2022 may be very different to the reality. Ongoing education has been shown to be extremely important in healthy ageing, and what better way to engage your residents than sharing experiences and creating an open dialogue around their different experiences.

If you enjoyed our list of ANZAC Day activities then be sure to check out our Top 6 Easter Activities for People Living with Dementia .

Occupational Therapy 101

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 05:04:31 GMT

Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy , Osteopathy ... it all becomes a bit confusing. We break down the A-B-Cs of Occupational Therapy so you know what to expect from your first consultation.

What is Occupational Therapy?

The role of Occupational Therapy is:

To promote health and well being through occupation (mum, dad, husband, carer)
To enable people to participate in the activities of everyday life
Working with people and communities to enhance their ability to engage in the occupations they want to, need to, or are expected to do, by modifying the occupation or the environment to better support their occupational engagement

How do Occupational Therapists work?

Assessment

The occupational therapy process is based on initial and repeated assessments. The occupational therapist, together with the person they are working with, focus on individual and environmental abilities and problems related to activities in the person's daily life.

Assessment includes the use of:

standardised procedures
interviews
observations in a variety of settings
consultation with significant people in the person's life

Planning

The results of the assessment are the basis of the plan which includes short and long-term aims of treatment.

The plan should be relevant to the persons:

development stage
habits
roles
lifestyle preferences
the environment

Intervention

Intervention focuses on programs that are person-oriented and environmental. These are designed to facilitate the performance of everyday tasks and adaptation of settings in which the person works, lives and socialises.

Examples include:

teaching new techniques
providing equipment that facilitates independence in personal care
reducing environmental barriers
providing resources to lessen stress

Collaboration

Occupational therapists recognise the importance of teamwork.

For a holistic approach they cooperate and coordinate with:

other professionals
family members
caregivers
volunteers

Occupational Therapists will work with you to improve your well-being so we encourage clients to be open and honest with their clinician to ensure they get the best out of this valuable service.

If you want to learn more about Occupational Therapy, or would like to arrange an assessment, please get in touch with our support office today.

'The Great Reshuffle': Healthcare Recruitment

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 05:19:41 GMT

Kicking into 2022 we have witnessed further fluctuation across the Australian workforce, and while many industries are dubbing it 'The Great Resignation’, we explore a different perspective to this fluctuation, and how the Aged Care industry can use these changes to benefit themselves and their clinicians.

Let’s call it ‘The Great Reshuffle’ instead.

As we navigate our way through life post lockdown, one thing is clear, we are asking ourselves to reconsider what is essential. Along with the rest of the Australian workforce, clinicians are reprioritising what they want from their employers. They are searching for solutions to clinician burnout, a greater work-life balance, and further learning and development.

This gives Aged Care Facilities and other allied health employers the opportunity to revisit and update their Employment Value Propositions to entice candidates who may have not considered them previously.

Clinician Burnout

Feeling overwhelmed and at risk of burnout is the most common challenge experienced by healthcare workers. With Aged Care facilities in lockdown, residents at high risk, shortages of PPE it’s no surprise clinicians have felt overworked and anxious. By reviewing contracts and working with current clinicians to find a solution you can reduce turnover. For attracting potential candidates looking to escape burnout at their current position offer more flexibility in roles. For example, is there an opportunity for a full-time role to be part-time?

If you are a Vivir Healthcare Allied Health Professional and are experiencing burnout please reach out to your clinical lead or support team .

Better work-life balance

With burnout becoming a greater concern for candidates the importance of work-life balance has been amplified. Ultimately candidates are looking for flexibility and better working conditions, but our Talent Acquisitions Team has witnessed this translate into changes in job preferences.

Hiring Insights for Allied Health 2022

Our talent acqusitions team have witnessed an increase in clinicians:

electing to have permanent part-time contracts or work casual hours
preferencing regional, community or aged care facility (with feedback it offers a better work-life balance)
exploring a different sector (e.g. clinicians increasingly interested in our community or NDIS sectors as they offer more flexible rosters)
clinicians who had exited aged care sector returning on a casual basis
as graduates opting to start their career in Aged Care

While some clinicians have reshuffled across into new sectors, others have elected to leave their employers for new careers. However, we have witnessed an increase in graduates joining the social assistance industry contributing to the 'reshuffle' of Allied Health Professionals, as graduates apply for jobs that were once unavailable.

To respond to this shift, we have revisited our own Vivir Graduate Support to further tailor and structure our graduate support .

Adapting to a new landscape

While healthcare vacancies look set to climb, this brings opportunities for those already in aged care and for those looking to move across. At Vivir Healthcare we have revisited our Employee Value Proposition to offer our clinicians greater flexibility with work-load, location, and further opportunities for development.

Here are some ways we are offering more to our clinicians:

Internal promotions
Now is the time to speak with your team leader to review and further develop your career plan
Training and/or upskilling
Take advantage of Vivir’s $700 PD allowance and start looking into that course you’ve been meaning to do
Changing your contract to fit around your lifestyle
Looking for increased flexibility? Speak with your team leader to see what options are available
Start working from home
Speak to our recruitment team about our telehealth opportunities
Escape to regional Australia for 6 weeks
Vivir will pay for your travel and accommodation for clinicians who want to take a temporary contract

Being agile and offering your employees greater flexibility will allow your 'Great Resignition' to be a reshuffle leaving your business stronger and more prepared for 2022.

What is the Allied Health Group Therapy Program?

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 05:32:35 GMT

The Allied Health Group Therapy program in Residential Aged Care Facilities across Australia

Why was the Allied Health Group Therapy Program introduced?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, outbreaks in aged care facilities have led to full lockdowns in Residential Aged Care Facilities, where residents were restricted to their rooms. Normal exercise and access to the outside was not possible. This led to a significant level of deconditioning amongst residents in facilities that were forced to implement full lockdowns.

What is the Allied Health Group Therapy Program?

The Allied Health Group Therapy program led by a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or exercise physiologist in Residential Aged Care Facilities across Australia’s East Coast, aims to improve physical functioning of residents; who are or have been at risk of deconditioning due to COVID-19 lock downs in 2020. Vivir Healthcare were successful in a tender to deliver the Allied Health Group Therapy program across Victoria and New South Wales.

What is the Allied Health Group Therapy Program trying to achieve?

The supervised Allied Health Group Therapy program aims to support the immediate and ongoing achievement of physical activity guidelines for residents of Residential Aged Care Facilities impacted by full lockdowns. Implementation of the prescribed group program has been shown by Sallis et al., (2021) to significantly improve physical functioning (strength, endurance, and balance), and subsequently has been linked with a decrease the impact of deconditioning and reduced risk of developing severe COVID-19 related illness.

Breakdown of the Allied Health Group Therapy Program

Context

The Allied Health Group Therapy program is based on the Sunbeam program, developed by Dr. Jennifer Hewitt, Physiotherapist, Researcher, and Educator from the University of Sydney. The Sunbeam program consists of individually prescribed progressive resistance training and balance exercise performed for 1 hour twice per week for 50 hours, in groups of 4.

Program

At the beginning of each program’s rollout, the Allied Health Professional (AHP) will assess each resident and prescribe an individualised exercise dosage to accommodate his/her preferences, co-morbidities and abilities. Each resident’s program and dosage is reviewed on a regular basis to maximise their outcomes.

Resistance Training

Resistance training exercises are set at an individually assessed load where the resident completes 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 15 repetitions for each exercise at a self-determined “moderate” intensity. Once the resident reports this load to be easy, either the resistance is increased, or the number of sets/repetitions are increased, to make the exercise more challenging.

Examples of resistance training exercises may include:

Seated knee extensors
Seated Hip adduction, Sit to Stand (Leg Press)
Seated Elbow Extension (Triceps Activation) with use of body weight, resistance or weight
Resistance training can also be tailored for a facility gym, if available.

Balance exercises

Balance exercises are challenging enough to result in improvement but is conducted in a safe and controlled environment. The Allied Health Professional may place a table in front of one resident and a chair behind them while standby assistance may be required for another resident.

Balance exercises may be made more challenging by:

reducing the base of support (feet apart/together),
reducing hand support (holding on to a support table with two hands, one hand or no hands)
performing with eyes closed.

We are extremely excited about what the Allied Health Group Therapy program has accomplished so far. We have received great feedback on the program’s effectiveness, scope, social interaction and versatility from our residents and our team. Following our successful tender process and the program’s roll-out during the second half of 2021, we hope to expand our Allied Health Group Therapy Program in the future.

Resources

Brownie, S. and Horstmanshof, L. (2012) ‘Creating the conditions for self-fulfilment for aged care residents’, Nursing Ethics, 19(6), pp. 777–786. doi: 10.1177/0969733011423292.

Hewitt, J. et al. 2019. ‘An economic evaluation of the SUNBEAM programme: a falls-prevention randomized controlled trial in residential aged care’, Clinical Rehabilitation, 33(3), pp. 524–534. doi: 10.1177/0269215518808051.

Hewitt, J. et al., 2014. Does progressive resistance and balance exercise reduce falls in residential aged care? randomized controlled trial protocol for the sunbeam program. Clinical Interventions in Aging, p.369.

Hewitt, J. et al., 2018. Progressive resistance and balance training for falls prevention in long-term residential aged care: A cluster randomized trial of the sunbeam program. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 19(4), pp.361–369.

Sallis, R. et al., 2021. Physical inactivity is associated with a higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes: A study in 48 440 adult patients. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 55(19), pp.1099–1105.

8 New Years Resolutions for Seniors

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 05:37:38 GMT

Whether you're in an aged care setting, a carer supporting a client, a loved-one of an elderly person, or are just searching for New Year's resolution suggestions, we have come up with 8 New Year's resolutions to improve wellbeing.

Resolutions to Improve Well-being

Try Something New
Challenging yourself by taking up a new activity or reading a new book can be extremely rewarding. Adventure does not have to involve climbing mountains or learning a new language. Every day can be an adventure if you simply aim to try something new.
Complete a Daily Form of Exercise
Consult with your Allied Health Professional to receive an insight into what type of exercise might be appropriate for you. Exercises can be completed independently, or with assistance.
Embrace Technology
Technology can be daunting, or it can be a gateway to a whole new world. Technology can be excellent for staying in contact with family and friends, learning new skills, watching your favourite television shows or even completing brain teasers.
Set a Weekly Activity Goals
Many Residential Aged Care Facilities and community groups offer daily activities, so establishing a weekly goal to attend a set number of activities can be a fantastic way to try new things or learn a new skill.
Share Your Memories
Sharing your photos, stories and milestones from your younger years can dramatically lift your spirits and others’. Your memories can be shared with your family, friends, care staff and the Vivir team.
Make a New Friend
Social engagement and participation are extremely important for older adults, so why not make a new friend? Research has shown that enhancing social engagement can lead to better cognition and overall health and decreased risk of disability and depression.
Speak About Your Feelings
Only good things can come from sharing your feelings, whether they are good feelings or bad. Many seniors have grown up in an era where holding your cards close to your chest was the norm. However, if you are experiencing symptoms of hopelessness or depression, we have learned that the best thing we can do is reach out for help! There are many support services available.
Learn More About Your Own Health
Health is a state of physical, mental, and social well-being and not simply the absence of disease. You can learn about your own health by asking your Doctor, Carer, or Allied Health Professional questions. Your health providers can support you in developing simple steps to feel better and achieve new goals and milestones each day.

New Year's resolutions help us enter into the next chapter of our lives on a positive foot. It gives us goals to achieve and creates the framework for the rest of the year. At Vivir Healthcare we believe it is important to set achievable goals that support health and wellbeing.

Clinician of the Year 2021: Tahlia Colebrook

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 05:51:04 GMT

Our Clinician of the Year award recognises a clinician within our company who we feel has best exhibited our values, has shown great care with their clients, has received high commendations from their colleagues, and has demonstrated a strong performance within their profession throughout the year.

The ‘Clinician of the Year’ is selected by an internal panel from our winners of our ‘Clinician of the Quarter’ competition, who were nominated by their peers for their hard work and dedication.

The winner of ‘Clinician of the Year 2021’ is… Tahlia Colebrook!

Tahlia Colebrook is one of our hardworking Speech Pathologists who operates across our Home Care and NDIS sectors. Tahlia stood out to our panel for her leadership of our Speech Pathologists nationally, her steady line of loyal advocates singing her praises, and her dedication not only to providing care to her clients but to supporting her colleagues.

“Tahlia has worked tirelessly throughout 2021 under a shortage of Speech Pathology resources in Eastern Australia. Not only did Tahlia cover referrals across NSW and the ACT, Tahlia did an exceptional job of mentoring our new Speech Pathologists, creating resources for key clients and developing educational materials to support the Speech Pathology team going forward. Under challenging circumstances, Tahlia has provided exceptional clinical performance and demonstrated great leadership and perseverance.”

-Nomination Submission for Tahlia

Q&A with Tahlia Colebrook

We spoke with Tahlia about the services she provides, her award wins this year, and her professional advice for any budding clinicians. So let’s crack into it…

Q1. What do you enjoy most about being a Speech Pathologist?

Having the ability to be that one person in the day for someone that is able to stop and listen to what they have to say. Living in a residential aged care facility can be so isolating, as we’ve seen snowball during the lockdown, and being able to break down barriers and develop rapport with different people who want to be able to connect with another person, is so incredibly rewarding. Allowing someone to reclaim their identity and to improve their quality of life through eating, drinking, and communicating. To allow them to feel valued through the words you say to them and how you treat them is so important, and something that is unfortunately not often able to be prioritised in a residential aged care facility setting. Being a Speech Pathologist allows me to prioritise this and to help my clients feel like themselves again.

Q2. What is your favourite thing about working with homecare clients?

Being able to visit people in their homes means that you are privy to the life experiences that have made them who they are. I feel so honoured when they share with me the relationships and accompanying stories that have shaped the people that they are. Working with homecare clients means that you get to find out what they like and dislike, and then are able to shape your intervention to motivate them to engage. I’ve been taught to knit by a client this year, I’ve spent hours discussing poetry, and I’ve learnt some Greek. Being able to connect with someone by sharing their passions allows therapy to be so much more rewarding and enjoyable for both myself and my client.

Q3. What does winning clinician of the year mean to you?

I am so incredibly grateful to be recognised as Clinician of the Year for 2021. Being able to be acknowledged in a wider domain for the work that I do with my clients, improving clinical confidence and competence for the wider Speech Pathology team, as well as for education and Quality Improvement for some of our providers; demonstrating how much is involved with Speech Pathology in Aged care and homecare, and how much more needs to be done for change to happen. Winning Clinician of the Year shows me that my effort is valued and important in shaping the role and understanding of Speech Pathology in this domain, and inspires me to continue on that journey.

Q4. What would be your advice to any new starters with Vivir?

Passion is one of the most important things you can have in our line of work. Working in aged and homecare can be very challenging, so having the passion to advocate for your clients is so important. You do your best for them when you are passionate about what you do.

Sharing your passion helps other people develop theirs, and so my advice for our new starters would be to engage as much as you can. Share what you know with everyone you work with. Your number of years experience doesn’t necessarily equate to proficiency – a Speech Pathologist who has been in the field for 40 years has so much knowledge to bring to a team, but equally as a new graduate that enters the field with the most up-to-date research and methodologies that can be hugely valuable when shared.

Catch Up With Karen Leighton

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 06:01:07 GMT

We spoke to Karen Leighton, our friendly Executive General Manager, about life with Vivir Healthcare during and after lockdowns.

Originally from Wales, Karen relocated to Australia in 2014. Since then, she has built on her expertise in recruitment and healthcare, starting at our parent company Chandler Macleod and quickly rising through the ranks to now lead Vivir Healthcare. With over 17 years in the healthcare industry, Karen is leading Vivir to expand its reach to support more Australians on their rehabilitation journey.

So, let’s crack into it…

Q1. How has Vivir Healthcare been impacted by the pandemic?

When the pandemic hit one of the greatest impacts for Vivir was our inability to gain access to our customers to provide essential allied health services. We quickly realised that, if alternative service delivery methods were not made available, this would have a significant impact on our customers' health, social, and emotional wellbeing.

Vivir responded to these challenges by increasing our investment in our digital landscape with the successful launch of our telehealth platform. This investment has further enabled us to promote our allied health services through our telehealth communications further enabling us to reach more of our regional and remote communities across Australia.

We faced additional challenges across our residential services when the government mandated single site policy which impacted our ability to utilise our clinical workforce across all the sectors we serve. The health and safety of our clinical workforce remains our top priority, and the recent investment in our current mobile scheduling platform has certainly supported us to further mitigate some of these onsite risks. The platform enables us to balance the safety protocols with service demands through the provision of real-time updates to our people on the ever-changing developments of COVID.

Q2. How has your work life changed since the start of lockdowns?

Q3. With the dropping of restrictions what are you most excited about?

Now that international borders have opened, I am thrilled to be spending some quality time back in Wales with my family and friends who I have not seen for almost three years. I am delighted to be heading back to my homeland for this reunion at the end of this month - Christmas is certainly coming early for the Leighton’s this year.

I’m also excited we are now able to continue our overseas recruitment campaign and look forward to welcoming more overseas clinicians to the Vivir family in the coming months.

I’m incredibly thankful to my Vivir team for all of their hard work and dedication to our customers these past few months in what will be a year none of us will forget in a hurry. I’m happy to see everyone enjoying some time out of lockdown and making plans to reconnect with loved ones both near and far.

Q4. What do you see for the future of Vivir Healthcare?

Vivir has a very bright and eventful future. We are working on several projects this year.

One major project is preparing the business to support the newly proposed residential funding and assessment model, which will ultimately go live in October 2022. Our Residential Operational and Clinical Excellence teams are innovating new and desirable programs to discuss with our customers that are built on a foundation of achieving quality outcomes for older Australians.

Simultaneously we are continuing our journey of service diversification with a greater focus and investment across our disability services to further enable access to all participates of all ages.

In addition, we are seeing greater requirements from our customers in the provision of our home care services. Our Home care Operational Teams are responding by continuing to design new pathways to attract and retain the right workforce to meet this demand.

Lastly, off the back of the successful launch of our Vivir telehealth platform, we are also working to further promote access to allied health services to our wider Indigenous communities throughout Australia.

We are very excited for the future of Vivir Healthcare and look forward to improving the lifestyle and wellbeing for even more Australians who require allied health support.

Osteopaths: A Vital Role to Play in Aged Care

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 06:10:48 GMT

Choosing an Osteopath to play an active role in the care and support of an older family member can significantly improve their happiness, wellbeing, and treatment outcomes.

What can Osteopaths offer patients?

Osteopaths receive a minimum of five years of Tertiary education in Anatomy, Physiology, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Rehabilitation. Furthermore, Osteopaths are trained to recognise patterns in movement, posture, and activities of daily living that may cause pain or altered motion over weeks, months, or years. This unique perspective and desire to bring set and achieve new goals makes Osteopaths a great option to aid in one’s journey.

Case Study: The Rehabilitation Journey

Following a serious fall at home , Josette* was discharged from hospital into a residential aged care facility in December 2020. When Josette arrived at her new home, she was assessed by an Occupational Therapist for a new walking frame. Whilst undergoing the fitting of her walking frame, Josette explained that prior to her fall she’d experienced knee and ankle pain, which had led to her developing a limp, which she attributed to losing her balance during her fall.

Josette’s Occupational Therapist referred her to an Osteopath within their facility for entry into the Pain Management Program and to assess her suitablity for additional one-to-one Osteopathic services under Vivir’s On-Call program.

Diagnosis

The Osteopath’s assessment included a detailed medical history assessment including:

A review of her X-Rays
A post-hospital discharge plan
A lower-limb neurological examination
A balance screening
An orthopaedic examination of her ankle, knee and lower back

The Osteopath discovered Josette’s history of ankle pain had led to muscular atrophy on the lateral side of her ankle, and hypertrophy on her contralateral (opposite) hamstring.

During Josette’s orthopaedic lower back examination her Osteopath discovered she had a history of untreated lower back pain, which had been due to a nerve root impingement and disc herniation in her lower back, and led to increased muscle contracture and sensitivity in her thigh. This diagnosis also explained the worsening of her existing limp. Josette was re-assessed by her Osteopath upon each visit and goals were reviewed and reset every week.

Treatment

Through a tailored treatment plan over the course of eight weeks, that consisted of:

Gentle knee articulation
Soft tissue massage
Stretching and conditioning exercises targeting muscular imbalance and previously untreated back pain

Josette’s treatment plan was supported by:

Post-hip-surgery rehabilitation from her hospital-physiotherapist
Vivir’s Pain Management program
A custom-prescribed walking frame from Vivir’s Occupational Therapist

Outcome

Josette was able to regain her mobility over the course of three months. She was able to walk with significantly less pain and tie her shoe-laces, a goal she begun working toward during week three of her treatment plan.

Josette's Osteopath played a vital role in supporting rehabilitation ensuring that she received tailored care specific to her needs.

For more information on how Vivir’s Osteopath’s can help you please contact us .

*Some names have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals

Want to learn how Physiotherapists can support your journey to recovery? Read about Viktor's rehabilitation journey here .

NDIS Physiotherapy 101

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 06:17:02 GMT

Physiotherapy has been proven to reduce pain, improve quality of life and support people to achieve their own personalised goals.

Physiotherapy is so much more than giving a participant an exercise. At Vivir our physiotherapists are here to help educate, motivate, and support you by giving you the tools you need to gain greater independence and live your life the way you want to.

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a holistic approach to improve your movement and function; by using a combination of education, rehabilitation, and therapy techniques.

What conditions can physiotherapists treat?

Physical disabilities
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Acquired brain injuries (ABI’s)
Neurological (Strokes, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
Cerebral Palsy
Genetic conditions
Spinal cord injuries
Intellectual disability

How can a physiotherapist help me?

Physiotherapists will listen to you and set a rehabilitation plan that is both realistic and achievable. They will empower you to make choices and take the time to explain each component of your program, and how this links to you achieving your goals. They will help you gain confidence and independence to manage your condition as independently as possible.

What's involved in physiotherapy treatment?

Assessment:

A physiotherapist will come to your home and complete an assessment. They will talk with you and your support coordinator to find out exactly what your main concerns are and your goals you wish to achieve. The physiotherapist will complete a thorough review of your home setup and look to see if there is anything else you may need to help you with day-to-day tasks. They will assess your range of motion, strength, balance, pain, mobility, and anything else they think is appropriate.

Interventions:

After the physiotherapist has completed a thorough assessment, they will develop a personalised rehabilitation program for you. They will discuss what the program will consist of and most importantly how this relates to you achieving your goals.

Education:

Actions you can do daily to help you work towards your goals
Activities to try minimising (if there is something you can change that is aggravating you)
How specific exercises given relate to improving your functional requirements
Ensuring correct technique with exercises

Motivation:

Supporting you when you need that extra bit of motivation
Encouragement and driving you to succeed from the program

Home Exercise Program:

Exercises to improve range of motion at joints (stretching, using wall, pulley)
Strengthening & endurance exercises (bodyweight, weights, theraband)
Functional exercises directly related to your goals (climbing steps, putting heavy items on a high shelf, sit-stands from chair)
Balance exercises (depending on level of ability this may include, changing visual cues, surface, adding movement)
Hydrotherapy

Aids/ Equipment:

Walking frame or walking stick
Exercise-based equipment (theraband, weights, exercise bike, pedals

Manual Therapy:

Soft tissue massage
Joint mobilisation
Stretching
Functional mobilisation

Outcome:

After our physiotherapists have completed a thorough assessment and developed a unique rehabilitation program for you, they will continue to support you throughout your program. The physiotherapist will review your plan regularly with you, continuing to ensure that this is the best approach. They will adapt the program as needed and spend time with you improving your confidence and independence. By doing this, the physiotherapist is helping you to achieve what is most important to you and achieving your goals whatever they may be.

To find out more about how we can support you achieve your rehabilitation goals get in touch with us today.

We are an approved NDIS services provider, if you are an NDIS participant and wish to take advantage of our services, you can complete our online NDIS participant form to start receiving care.

Vivir Learning Launches!

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 06:26:44 GMT

We are excited to announce the launch of your new Vivir Learning platform as part of our rollout to improve the overall Professional Development experience for our clinicians.

What is Vivir Learning?

Vivir Learning is our new Learning Management System (LMS) for Vivir Healthcare's clinicians. It provides a modern layout, greater accessibility across devices, and an improved user experience.

What does Vivir Learning offer?

Mandatory courses
Professional Development courses
Course recommendations based on your previous learning history
Webinars
Policies & resources
Your course progress

Vivir Learning also provides our clinicians with:

A better user experience
Easy access to our course library, webinars, and resources
Clear overview of PD completed
Easy overview of course categories

Clinicians can access their courses on their mobile or tablet device by downloading the ‘Learn Mobile App’ and inputting the ‘www.vivirlearning.com.au’ URL. The app is available for both iOS and android devices.

How Has Vivir Learning Performed So Far?

We spoke to our Clinical Excellence Manager, Annika Schramm, who led the launch of this platform, and asked her a few questions on how the system has performed so far.

What does Vivir Learning offer to our new and your existing clinicians?

Vivir learning offers an easy and straightforward onboarding process with courses that can be completed across devices. It also provides us and new starters with good visibility around their progress.

Our existing clinicians are able to easily access our library of existing courses and resources, participate in webinars, access recommendations to see the newest or most relevant courses, and access a record of all their learning activity for future reference.

What has been the feedback since the launch of Vivir Learning?

The feedback has been great! In particular, we've had a very positive response around the user experience and ease of access of the learning materials.

If you have a suggestion on how Vivir Healthcare can improve their clinician experience, we'd love to hear from you! Please visit our contact us page to find out how you can get in touch.

Falls Prevention: Part ll

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 06:35:32 GMT

Read part one of our Falls Prevention blog series here .

Falls in Aged Care

Unfortunately, due to the needs and health status of residents in aged care , falls are a common occurrence. Whilst most falls are preventable, it is inevitable that falls will occur from time to time. Falls can be categorised as “witnessed”, where the resident falling was witnessed by a staff member or “unwitnessed” usually when the resident is found suddenly at a lower level or on the ground. Some falls can be classified as “assisted” where the resident was noted to lose balance and an aged care staff member or clinician has intervened to help them to gently come down to a lower level.

What to Do During a Witnessed/Unwitnessed Fall

Do not lift or move the head or neck, especially in the occurrence of a head strike
Do not attempt to lift or get the resident back to standing
Provide reassurance to the resident and if appropriate ask about any sites of pain
Signal or request for another individual to retrieve help and assistance - try to not leave the resident alone if possible
If a resident has suffered a skin tear, this will need to be attended to immediately, especially if the resident is on medication such as Warfarin
If you have witnessed a fall from afar, handover all relevant details and information to the nurse in charge and check whether you are required to document this in the resident's file
Staff may require for your input and assistance to complete an Incident Report and as much information as possible should be provided to support this process
Incident reports are valuable for review and can prompt for further investigation when completing post-falls assessments as they aim to provide a comprehensive and holistic consideration as to what may have caused/contributed to the fall (i.e. resident was not wearing glasses at the time of fall)

Fall Prevention Strategies

Aged care facilities across Australia are instructed by best practice guidelines to reduce and prevent rates of falls. Engagement of residents and their family members as much as possible during the provision of intervention will strengthen the successful uptake of fall prevention strategies.

The four main domains of best practice include:

Implementation of standard falls prevention strategies
Identifying risks for falls
Implementing interventions to reduce the risks associated with falls
Preventing serious injury from occurring to those that do fall

Residents experiencing significantly high rates of falls and are prone to acquiring significant and traumatic injury as a result, may benefit from referral to a Falls Specialist for review and recommendations.

Falls prevention strategies and areas for follow-up in aged care:

Vision:

If a resident experiences a fall, it would be beneficial to follow up if they are due for an eye test. In addition, clinicians should check whether the resident's glasses are well fitted, clean, and worn when mobilising around the facility.

Footwear:

Residents should always be encouraged to wear comfortable and well-fitted shoes
Residents may require an appointment with a podiatrist if any concerns arise over the condition of their feet, foot pain or footwear

Exercise:

Fitness: Regular daily exercise that concentrates on strength, balance, and improvement of gait
Strength: As residents age, muscle volume and tone are lost, therefore strengthening exercises focusing on the legs, will help residents to maintain their strength and lower their risk of falls
Balance: Improving balance may support a resident to be more likely to react in a stable and safe way if they were to lose their balance

Vitamin D/Diet:

A healthy diet has significant benefits for a resident’s overall health and wellbeing. Vitamin D is required for the absorption of calcium which in turn helps to strengthen bones. Therefore, it would be valuable to follow up whether the resident would benefit from Vitamin D supplementation.

Lighting:

Should be adequate in any accessible area to the resident. Lighting shouldn't be too dim or bright and light switches should be easy for residents to reach in their bedroom.

Steps:

Steps should not be slippery and should always have handrails installed.

Carpet/Flooring:

There should be limited to nil rugs present on walking areas and any areas where the carpet is not level, fraying, ot sticking out should be addressed and noted for maintenance.

Access:

Frequently used items should be kept within arm’s reach at a low level, thus not requiring the resident to reach up or bend to access needed items.

Clutter:

Clutter should be removed from high traffic areas or areas regularly accessed by the resident.

Fear of Falls:

Support and reassurance should be provided to residents that are at risk or have developed a fear of falls.

Medication:

Residents may require a review by GP and or pharmacist of their psychotropic medication and whether doses need to be altered to improve residents' safety (i.e. if a resident appears over sedated and therefore unable to mobilise safely on their own).

Grab Rail:

Grab rails should be available in all bathrooms, near all toilets, and in showering facilities.

Over-seat Toilet Frame:

Over-seat toilet frames should be assessed for meeting the appropriate height of residents to ease with transfers on and off the toilet.

Hip Protectors:

Residents who are mobile and agreeable could benefit from wearing hip protectors. Hip protectors are most valuable with high compliance and acceptance from the resident.

Tips for working with elderly residents when addressing falls preventions:

Involve family members where feasible and appropriate
Anticipate potential challenges and barriers that may prevent residents from engaging with your falls prevention methods and develop strategies to assist them to overcome these barriers
Discuss falls prevention with the resident and determine what is a priority for them and what changes they are keen to make
Provide information in a simple, clear, and useful manner that is easy for residents to comprehend and execute
Highlight the importance of preventing falls as maintaining their independence for longer

Read part one of this blog series to discover factors that can increase the likelihood of falls and the impact falls can have.

Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapists offer training to aged care facilities staff instructing on best practice to create a safe environment for residents that decreases the opportunities for falls to occur.

Get in touch with our friendly support team to find out more about our training services or enquire about our clinician service offering.

Falls Prevention: Part l

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 06:57:40 GMT

What is a Fall?

A fall is described as an incident where an individual inadvertently comes to rest on a level lower to them such as the ground (DHHS, 2017-2020). A fall occurring in an aged care facility is often categorised as a witnessed or unwitnessed fall. Furthermore, falls can be described as “assisted” if occurring in the presence of staff who helped guide the resident safely to rest on the floor or nearby safe lower surface.

Aged and Falls

The risk of falls increases with age, therefore elderly adults in residential aged care are at an increased risk of suffering from a fall (Hill & Barker, 2012). Furthermore, falls-related injuries that require hospitalisation also increase with age

Although the risk of falls increases with age, it is important to emphasise that falls are preventable and should not be viewed as part of the ‘normal’ ageing process (Aged Care Online, 2019)

There is usually more than one variable/factor that accounts for why a fall has occurred. Therefore, it is imperative that a multifactorial approach is taken when completing post-falls reviews, assessments, and recommendations.

Particularly, it is necessary to combine a comprehensive review of the resident’s physical status and their surrounding environment (Hill and Barker, 2012)

When is a resident more at risk of falls?

Below we outline factors that may increase the likelihood of falls occurring in the elderly. These factors may be related to the physical capacity of the individual, their immediate environment, lifestyle habits and choices, and psychological considerations. It is important to consider these factors during a post-fall review of the resident to facilitate holistic and effective follow-up.

Factors that increase risk of falls in the elderly

Person Comorbidities:

Certain health conditions can increase the likelihood of falling as they may cause changes to the individuals mobility, strength and balance. For example, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy as a result of Diabetes, Stroke and Cardiovascular Disease. Additionally, an extended period of medical illness also increases the risk of falls.

Incontinence:

Residents experiencing incontinence are likely to have falls when attempting to access the bathroom.

Medications:

The amount and type of medications a resident takes can increase their risk of falls, particularly the following:

Anti-psychotics
Analgesics
Sedatives

Health Status of an Individual:

The physical health of the resident, particularly their overall strength, balance and gait and level of frailty, muscle tone, diet, and whether they are acutely unwell, contribute significantly.

Sensory Decline:

Reduced capacity to interpret sensory feedback and signals can make it harder for residents to stabilise themselves effectively in both static and dynamic positions.

Foot Pain:

Foot pain whilst standing or mobilising can increase the risk of falling. Foot pain could be caused by insufficient footwear, sensory loss due to peripheral neuropathy, and pressure ulcers.

Postural Drop:

Transferring from lying, sitting, and then standing too quickly can result in a significant drop in blood pressure causing a resident to feel dizzy, disorientated, and leading to a fall.

Past History of Falls:

A significant history of falls for a resident makes them more likely to experience a fall-related incident in the future.

Vitamin D Deficiency:

Deficiency in Vitamin D prohibits its ability to absorb calcium into the bones, thus leaving individuals frail and brittle, and more likely to experience a fall.

Lifestyle:

Reduced Physical Activity:

Reduced physical activity can lead to loss of muscle volume, tone, and loss of bone density. Thus reducing residents' overall strength and conditioning, making them more prone to falls.

Footwear:

Footwear should be well-fitted and in good condition to reduce the risk of falls. Shoes with thick soles tend to diminish the residents' ability to detect their position of their foot, therefore increasing their risk. Material of sole of foot and amount of tread may reduce risk of sliding on slippery surfaces.

Environment:

Unfamiliarity with a new setting, flooring and surfaces, may take time to get used to and this may cause some residents to lose their balance easily, resulting in a fall

Hazards in the immediate living environment:

Hazards in the immediate environment can pose as a physical risk for falls:

Clutter
Obstructed pathways
Slippery surfaces

Hazards may also affect the resident’s senses and ability to perceive hazards in their environment:

Poor lighting through not enough natural light or dimmed/broken light fixtures within the structure of the building
Equipment and gait aids that require repairs or unable to utilise brakes effectively pose a high falls risk to the elderly

Psychological

Delirium: Loss of sense of orientation and awareness of reality. The resulting confusion can make a resident more likely to fall.
Cognitive Impairment: Residents particularly with Dementia are at higher risk of falls and are likely to remain on the floor, post a fall for a significant period of time.
Mood and Emotions: Fear, anger and frustration may make a resident less focused on surroundings, their gait, and safe mobility.
Developed Fear: Particularly if a resident has a history of falls this may lead to a developed fear of future falls.

Impact of Falls on the Elderly

The impacts of falls on the elderly are substantial to themselves and can impact those around them including staff, family, and the wider health care system.

Common consequences from falls include:

Injuries and fractures to hip and thigh
Femur fractures
Head injuries
Wrist fractures
Increased morbidity
Mortality
Reduced independence
Increased financial burden for costs associated with therapy, rehabilitation, and intervention
Potentially reduced quality of life
Increased support reliance and support required from family, carers, and clinical staff
Developed fear of falls, lost confidence in mobilising, thus increasing the risk of immobility by spending more time in bed (ACSQHC, 2009)

Part two of this blog series will explore what carers and aged care workers can do to lessen the likelihood of falls for residents. You can read part two of this blog series here.

Vivir Healthcare offer training to aged care facilities staff instructing on best practice to create a safe environment for residents that decreases the opportunities for falls to occur.

Graduates: How to Apply for a Job in Healthcare

Thu, 20 May 2021 07:25:57 GMT

At Vivir Healthcare we provide opportunities for graduates to kick-start their career in allied health.

While we openly offer the opportunity for graduates to gain experience, we still find some graduates hesitant to as they’re uncertain of what exactly they should submit.

Graduates are left thinking: ‘With no experience in my profession, how do I complete a resume or a cover letter?’

How to Write a CV & Cover Letter with No Work Experience

In this article I will offer my expertise on what recruiters in the healthcare industry look for in a graduate’s CV and cover letter when they apply for their first job . So, let’s get started...

Should I bother writing a cover letter if I have no work experience?

Writing a cover letter gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself to a prospective employer. Your cover letter is a one-page document which outlines your motivation for applying and should focus on your key skills and, if possible, your experience.

Often, I am asked if recruiters/hiring managers read cover letters. On average a hiring manager will take 6 seconds when reading a cover letter. In my experience, it is a mixed bag, some recruiters/hiring managers want the starter and will take the time to read a cover letter, whilst others will skip straight to the main course and only want your resume. My advice would be to play it safe and develop a cover letter to cover all bases and ensure you are appealing to all.

If you are a healthcare graduate and currently do not hold any relevant work experience, don’t fret, you can still add your:

Motivation and interest in the role
Academic qualifications
Registration or timelines for completion
Any compliance checks which have already been obtained e.g. Police Check, First Aid etc.
Any soft skills you maintain that would support you in the role
Any future career aspirations which might be relevant to the role
Finally, thanking the reader for taking time to view your application

What non-professional “experience” is still valuable in a CV?

After your contact details, the first thing I like to see on a resume is a personal statement or summary. This part of your resume allows you to introduce yourself, your experience and persuade the recruiter/hiring manager you are the best person for the role.

From my experience a short summary between 50-200 words is enough to highlight your career aspirations, skills and who you are. Soft skills (e.g. strong work ethic, having an empathetic personality, being a team player etc.) can be illustrated on your resume however I find demonstrating your passion to work in the health sector helping people get better is far more valuable. Furthermore, any voluntary experience within the care sector can be highly regarded.

What are the top things my industry looks for in an allied health graduates CV?

It may seem obvious, but your education is probably the most important aspect of your resume when applying for a role as a graduate. Highlighting your qualifications both academic and vocational is essential and valuable for applicants with minimal work experience.

The magic rule of listing your education is to detail where you have studied and the dates in chronological order. Many allied health providers, hospitals, and private practices value the clinical placements a student has completed during their degree. Therefore, it is important to list these on your resume as positions you have undertaken as previous experience. Demonstrating previous experience gives you a head start, especially if your placements are relevant to a role you are applying for.

Should I add references if I have no professional experience?

As a recruiter of many years, I have seen thousands of resumes with reference sections. Some resumes have no references and others have too many. My key piece of advice to graduates is to use a favourite educator or educators. You can also use older students you have shared classes with, a manager from the past, or family friend you have done some work for.

The key here is to only list two or three references and ensure they’re aware you have listed them on your resume, and that they may receive a call.

Looking for more employment advice? Get in touch with us today to discuss allied health opportunities in aged care.

Diabetes in Aged Care

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 07:32:21 GMT

Diabetes is a growing concern in the aged care setting. It is now estimated that up to 25% of residents in an aged care setting can have diabetes and this number is likely to grow due to our ageing population.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when the body can no longer control the amount of glucose in the blood which leads to high blood glucose levels. Glucose is classified as a carbohydrate. Examples of carbohydrate foods are breads and cereals, rice, pasta, potato, dairy foods, fruit, cakes, biscuits, soft drinks and juices. Over a long period of time, uncontrolled diabetes can cause complications such as heart disease, foot ulcers, kidney failure and vision loss.

There are two types of Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body destroys the cells that produce insulin. This is a less common form of diabetes and only 10–15% of people with diabetes have this type. Type 2 diabetes is the more common type and affects 85–90% of all people with diabetes.

Diabetes in an aged care setting

It can be challenging to manage diabetes in an aged care setting as it can be a balancing act between controlling blood glucose levels, optimising quality of life and preventing malnutrition or unwanted weight loss amongst residents. Unnecessary dietary restrictions that can result in a decreased food and fluid intake and place the resident at an increased risk of malnutrition is not recommended. The main goal should be on meeting the individual’s dietary requirements and promoting enjoyment of meals instead of focusing on tight control of blood glucose levels.

Diabetes and diet myths in aged care

‘People with diabetes can’t eat sugar’ – False.

It is a common misconception that diabetic residents should avoid sugar. However, residents should be able to enjoy sugar in moderate amounts, such as having jam on their toast, a glass of orange juice with breakfast, sugar in their tea or coffee, and their desserts.

‘Residents with diabetes should be provided with a diabetic diet’ – False.

A well planned and balanced menu should be provided to all aged care residents. Residents with diabetes do not need to have special foods such as artificial sweetener or sugar-free lollies, jams or drinks. Research has now shown that residents with diabetes should enjoy a balanced and liberal diet and do not need to follow a separate ‘diabetic diet’.

Diet tips for Residents with Diabetes:

Ensure there is an even distribution of carbohydrate containing foods at each meal and snacks. This should be consistent with the regular menu that is offered to all residents.
Avoid hypoglycaemia. Hypoglycaemia occurs when blood glucose levels fall too low and can arise in residents who take some oral hypoglycaemic medications or are receiving insulin. Common dietary causes of hypoglycaemia can include missing a meal or snack, long periods of time without eating or a low intake of carbohydrate foods. Hypoglycaemia can occur overnight but a way to help avoid it occurring can be to ensure a suitable snack before bed is provided, such as a milk drink, sandwich or yoghurt and fruit.
Ordinary jam, honey, regular ice-cream, sugar with tea/coffee, the main dessert, cakes and muffins should all be offered to residents with diabetes. Diet products are not necessary.
Fresh fruit should always be available.
Keep hydrated. Drinking adequate amounts of water is important for residents with diabetes as being dehydrated can negatively impact on blood glucose levels.

It is always important to get individualised dietary advice for residents with diabetes from an Accredited Practising Dietitian .

To talk to one of our friendly representatives about our dietetic services please contact us today.

Easter Activities For Seniors with Dementia

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 07:37:28 GMT

Take this Easter holiday as an opportunity to brighten the day and mind of an elderly resident, friend or family member living with dementia.

Becoming involved in festive activities can stimulate positive memories, encourage engagement and self-expression.

For those caring for people with mental health conditions like Dementia, it can be challenging to find activities that are stimulating, but not overwhelming. That is why we have compiled a list of our favourite Easter activities for people with Dementia.

6 Easter Ideas for Seniors with Dementia

We spoke with our clinicians working in aged care facilities and these are some of their favourite Easter ideas for their residents and seniors living with dementia:

1. Painting and dying eggs

Art therapy stimulates the brain, it provides an opportunity for self-expression away from verbal communication, and encourages the painter to engage. While colours and lines stimulate cognition, painting also requires some level of hand-eye coordination, concentration, and creativity to participate. Painting hard boiled eggs with paint and dye requires little time and still gives them that same feeling of accomplishment and independency.

2. Distributing Easter Eggs

Whether they have homemade baskets on their room doors that residents can distribute eggs into or there are grandchildren visiting who would enjoy a chocolate treat from a resident, this is an Easter activity that a person living with dementia can perform with the right support. Helping with socialisation, following instructions and becoming engaged, this activity can also trigger positive memories.

3. More Easter crafts for seniors

From making bunny ears to gift baskets to Easter cards. Depending on your residents’ cognitive level these crafts can be fun, festive and stimulating. People living with dementia often struggle with self-expression, a feeling of being trapped and are unable to communicate their emotions. Simple and safer Easter arts and crafts can be therapeutic for people exhibiting dementia symptoms.

4. Staff and visitors to wear Easter props

The bright colourful additions of Easter props can be fun for residents and staff, whether it’s bunny ears, a large stuffed carrot, a homemade Easter selfie frame or Easter masks. Residents can also join in on the dress up and if you have a polaroid camera (or a smartphone) you can set up a little photo booth. A great way to make a happy memory for residents and their relatives.

5. Easter church services

For many who grew up spending Easter in church services, having the option to attend a church service in their facility or attend mass at a local church can be a comfort. While the commercial Easter activities are a great opportunity to stimulate and engage residents, for many the opportunity to express their faith during this religious holiday is cardinal.

6. Share memories

A sometimes challenging but rewarding activity for people with dementia is to have them recall memories. This is a form of reminiscence therapy and can help reduce stress for people with dementia as they recall positive memories. Have your residents share what they do with their family for Easter and why Easter is important to them.

If you enjoyed our Easter activities, then check out our suggestions for Christmas. Click here to read 12 ways you can bring cheer to your facility this Christmas.

Our entire team at Vivir Healthcare wish all our clinicians, residents, support staff, clients and readers a happy, safe and memorable holidays this Easter long weekend.

Free Ebook: Mental Health in Aged Care

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 07:50:29 GMT

Beyond Blue reported approximately 35% of residents in aged care experience mental health conditions, particularly depression.

Mental Health and Caring for the elderly

The Aged Care Environment

The National Mental Health Commission has recommended to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety to hold a public hearing focused on the way aged care facilities manage mental health services.

Ensuring your colleagues are equipped to manage and remedy anxiety, depression and mental health conditions in an aged care environment is necessary to improve the quality of life and overall wellbeing of residents.

This handy guide offers a 101 resource for managing mental health conditions within aged care facilities.

Speak With Us

For more information about our allied health services and how we can support you in delivering comprehensive and quality care call 1300 184 847 to speak to a representative today.

12 Ways You Can Bring Christmas Cheer to Your Facility

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 08:01:15 GMT

The holiday season is a challenging time for some seniors, but with a little extra effort you can make it special for your residents.

Christmas Activities for Seniors

Here are 12 of our top activities to spread the cheer in your facility this year:

Upgrade staff uniforms with festive shirts
Get your residents and staff into the Christmas spirit with Christmas T-shirts. Stores like Lowes, Best&Less, and Big W have affordable Christmas themed shirts that make this an easy and fun way to bring cheer. This can also be a subtle and effective way to boost staff morale, which as we know results in a cheerier environment for residents.
Don your Santa hats, elf ears and reindeer antlers
A similar solution to number one, but with more flexibility. Staff, residents or visitors can throw these on easily and join in the Christmas spirit. You can find these simple hats and headbands at the Reject shop, most dollar stores, and Kmart. It’s a bit of fun and great for visitors’ photos and facility photos.
Fill the space with Christmas carols
Don't have Christmas CDs or a stereo? Grab a portable speaker from home and connect it to your mobile phone or office computer. Use Spotify to access every famous Christmas Carol in pop culture history. Even access Christmas carols in different languages or from different countries to include staff and residents from different cultural backgrounds.
Tip: If you only have the free version of Spotify, sign up for their three-month free trial to avoid the ads. Just remember to cancel after the holidays. If you forget to cancel, you'll be charged $11.99 a month until you do cancel.
Hang Christmas wreaths on all the residents' doors
Activate the mind and the spirit by holding a Christmas wreath workshop. Residents can utilise their fine motor skills, be mentally stimulated by the creative challenge and get in the Christmas spirit. Once you’re done you have the added bonus of decorations for your facility that visitors can admire.
Tip: Workshops are a great photo opportunity for social media or any holiday newsletters to residents' family and friends.
Get a fresh pine Christmas tree to decorate with your residents
Go the extra mile and get a fresh pine tree for your residential aged care facility. Smell is said to have a stronger link to memory than any of the five senses. For residents with cognitive decline, this is an opportunity to trigger positive memories. The seniors of Australia did not grow up with plastic trees, so on this special holiday let them decorate a pine tree as they did as children, or as they did with their children.
Tip:Is your facility’s Christmas budget tight? Approach a large corporation like a supermarket and see if they will donate a Christmas tree. Offer to share photos of the residents and their families enjoying the decorations and the tree over the holiday season.
Hang Christmas stockings on residents’ doors
Surprise residents on Christmas morning with a visit from Santa Claus. Hang stockings on the door and let them wake to a stocking stuffed full. Some ideas for seniors stocking stuffers for aged care residents are:
- Gingerbread man
- Christmas cracker
- Pen and notepad
- Pencils and colouring book
- Coin purse
- Liquorice
- Mints
- Stress ball to squeeze (good for grip strengthening exercises)
- Candy cane
- Santa’s hat or xmas headbands
- Dried fruit and nuts
- Comfortable socks
- Deck of cards
Hold a Christmas card workshop
Many residents may not have the ability or capacity to get gifts for their visitors, this doesn’t mean they wouldn’t want to give something to them on Christmas. Set up a Christmas card workshop so residents have the opportunity to create something sentimental to give their family or friends over the holiday season. This will test their cognitive thinking and fine motor skills.
Make Christmas cookies, gingerbread men and houses
Stimulate all the senses and hand-eye coordination by holding a Christmas cookie workshop. Let residents express themselves by decorating with different colours and lollies.
Tip:For residents who may find this challenging pre-prepare your gingerbread men or houses and have them just act as the decoration squad. Most of the big supermarkets also sell kits to make it simpler.
Set up a virtual chat for families and friends
Since the pandemic the vast majority of Australians have become familiar with video calls. For some of your residents separated from family and friends overseas, a virtual call with loved ones would be the ultimate Christmas gift.
Tip 1:See if your facility can invest in a Google home hub (or similar technology). Once your hub is setup add your residents’ contacts to make video calls easy. If you do this, we also recommend investing in headsets so they can easily hear and be heard; just remember to sanitise the headset.
Tip 2: If setting up virtual calls is too challenging; you could encourage family and friends to send short pre-recorded video messages to the facility to play for the residents. You could even send short video messages back from residents.
Run a Secret Santa note exchange
An exciting activity for residents, the Secret Santa Note Exchange can be coordinated by your lifestyle therapists. Similar to Secret Santa, residents are assigned someone to write an anonymous Christmas note to. They are instructed to write something nice about the recipient and a Christmas blessing.
For example:“You have a lovely smile, and you are always kind towards the other residents. Thank you, and have a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
This is an easy option that has been popular with our residents in the past.
Put on a Christmas skit
Get staff and volunteers involved to put on a Christmas play or skit. Decorate the space, put on costumes, and fill your facility with vibrant Christmas cheer. We all know facilities are busy, so if this is not a realistic option reach out to some local community choirs or drama groups. See if they would be willing to volunteer their time and talent to perform at your facility.
Create a Christmas Spirit Board
Have residents build a Christmas Spirit Board by cutting and adding images that create a collage of pleasant Christmas memories. They could also contribute photos, sayings, handwritten messages and drawings. This is also popular with visitors, particularly any children who want to spot their grandparents Christmas collage contribution.

There are many ways you can make the holiday season festive at your facility this year. Another option is to provide disposable cameras, turning memories into mementos, like the good ole’ days. Adding some tinsel to the décor is another simple and cost-effective addition.

The important thing is to consider your residents and their capabilities , and finally putting aside the time to smoothly prepare your facility for the holiday season.

Aged Care Funding in Australia Q&A

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 09:12:05 GMT

Aged Care Funding 101

For years our experienced Head of Shared Services, Michael Gaggiano, has navigated the tricky world of aged care funding and is now providing us with answers to some common questions he receives.

So, if you’re searching for funding options to support homecare or aged care residents this aged care funding 101 is the perfect introduction to cut through the jargon.

Funding Options FAQs

What is aged care funding in a nutshell?
Aged care funding refers to the financial support offered to people living in aged care facilities. This is offered via the residential aged care facility (RACF) each individual resides in.
Where does aged care funding come from?
Aged care funding is provided directly from the Australian government. A significant part of the Australian federal budget each year is dedicated to supporting older Australians via this instrument.
What is the current aged care funding instrument in Australia?
Across all Australian residential aged care facilities, the current funding tool used is called the Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI).
Are there different aged care funding options?
Whilst the majority of financial support is provided via government paid funding programs, additional payment schemes are also sometimes used. These can be through a user pay system, NDIS payments, The Department of Veteran Affairs or EPC (medicare sessions).
How does aged care funding work?
Each person who enters a RACF is assessed for their individual care need. Many categories are considered but all fall within three broad domains:
a) Activities of daily living
b) Behaviours
c) Complex health care
Depending on a resident’s care needs, an appropriate amount of funding will be provided.
What does ACFI actually pay for?
The funding instrument is designed to offer financial support to older Australians within aged care by providing an amount of daily funding specific to the individual needs of the resident. The greater a resident’s care need, the greater amount of time and staff members will be required to care for this resident.

Specialised machinery such as lifting hoists, standing machines and gait aids may also be required. In these ways, ACFI is able to directly pay for these services. Additional services are also paid through ACFI for programs such as exercise, pain management and allied health services.
What is AN-ACC?
AN-ACC stands for the Australian National Aged Care Classification and is the latest proposal by the Australian government to offer a newly designed funding instrument for financial support to residents in care and the aged care providers that care for them.
Why is AN-ACC being introduced?
The Australian government are always trying to improve the way healthcare is delivered in the aged care sector. As part of their ongoing commitment to provide better care to older Australians, the government has actioned multiple trails and studies to determine the most effective and cost-efficient way to deliver care. The result of these findings has been the proposed AN-ACC model.
Will ACFI be replaced by the AN-ACC funding model?
There is no formal confirmation that the Department of Health will implement the AN-ACC model. Qualifying AN-ACC assessments are being completed through 2021, after which the government will release its findings and future funding plans.

Read more about the current Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) and find out how we can help you meet accreditation standards click here .

Building up the Physiotherapy Community

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 09:16:02 GMT

Shabreena Mavi, one of our seasoned physiotherapists, details below how and why she takes her involvement in the physiotherapy community to the next level.

Passion for physiotherapy & aged care

I am an APHRA registered physiotherapist, currently working as a Clinical Manager and Team Leader with Vivir Healthcare WA . I am passionate about my field and driven to improve the wellbeing and care of older people. Wherever I see gaps in treatment or care, I see an opportunity for improvement. That is why I have always put my hand up and become involved in platforms that allow me to improve services and care for elderly population.

Contributing to our allied health community

In Australia, I have been involved in training and mentoring graduate physiotherapists and occupational therapists in aged care and in private practice; even having acted as a university placement coordinator in WA. I currently volunteer with Mentors Group in WA, to provide support for members of multicultural groups who would like to get involved, or are seeking employment, in healthcare.

Creating dialogue for allied health in aged care

Most recently I have joined the GPA committee (Gerontology Physiotherapy Association) in Western Australia. Part of the APA (Australian Physiotherapy Association), the GPA aims to open discussion and exchange of knowledge in regard to concerns and issues raised in aged care and looking for better solutions and best care for our elderly population. This involves monthly meetings, discussing agendas related to Physiotherapy.

As we all know, you cannot approach Physiotherapy as a one-size fits all. With elderly population in particular there are so many variables that can affect how we approach treatment. I strongly believe that through open dialogue we are able to build our expertise and discover new approaches to treatment – and that is what I hope to accomplish as a member of the GPA and also be a voice for them to be able to get the best service and care.

Investing in physiotherapy and aged care

Training aged care physiotherapists and clinic-based physiotherapists offers me the opportunity to share this knowledge and experience. I have found fulfilment in contributing to the growth of our clinicians.

It is no secret physiotherapists are heavily in-demand; I often find private practice and aged care homes are strained to find someone APHRA qualified to fill vacancies and provide essential care for their residents and clients. By supporting graduates and overseas clinicians establish themselves, and by contributing to the development of evidence based rehabilitation and treatments for the elderly, I not only build on my own expertise but improve care for many seniors nationally.

Physiotherapy: Beyond Building Physical Strength

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 09:20:05 GMT

Working in aged care means an interesting, diverse and challenging caseload. As a physio, it is always most rewarding to use clinical skills to assist a person with physical recovery.

After a significant stroke, in hospital Viktor* and his family were told that there was little chance that he would regain any real quality of life. However, they held on to hope as the hospital’s physiotherapist reassured them that it was possible for Viktor to become stronger.

Viktor was serendipitously placed at physiotherapist Nora Tran’s residential aged care facility and was part of the team who collaborated towards Viktor’s recovery from late 2017.

In Viktor she met a quiet, humble, private man with a ‘twinkle in his eye.’ He had become withdrawn, saying he was a “dead man” unlikely to live fully again. Nora remembers Viktor’s very limited function and that at first it was hard to motivate him as despair further paralysed him.

“One day I asked Viktor what Nora's presence meant to him. He replied, with much emotion and gratitude, ‘she gave me life’.”
- Resident Chaplain

There were gruelling sessions by his bedside and at the rail with Nora, but Viktor’s family encouraged him to keep going. The twinkle in his eye often became tears streaming down his face, laughing at their quirky humour and celebrating each small step he made with them by his side. Nora reflects upon the degree of motivation, determination and ‘new mindset talk’ Viktor’s effort took; she was so proud of him.

“We smashed out repetitive exercise for several months until Viktor began to see small improvements in himself.”
- Nora Tran, Vivir Healthcare

He progressed from not being able to balance while attempting to sit on the side of his bed to walking with assistance. To Nora it was a gradual but amazing recovery to be a part of that she was grateful to have spent the last 3 years being involved in.

"Every session was filled with so many laughs, over silly things we both understood! It is a relationship I will always cherish."
- Nora Tran, Vivir Healthcare

Physical healing often demands both mental and emotional stamina. Fortunately for Viktor he had a strong support network which allowed him to have 3 more years of quality living with his family by his side.

Nora demonstrated clinical skills applied with sensitivity, emotional rapport and motivational strategies, including utilising family support, to achieve rehabilitation goals. This is holistic clinical practice – making their day for those we work alongside.

For support with managing mental health in aged care see our free e-book . This resource can support you and your coworkers improve the wellbeing of your residents.

*Some names have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals

International Women’s Day Reflections from our EGM

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 09:23:51 GMT

To celebrate International Women’s Day, Vivir Healthcare held a competition for our team members to share their personal stories of women in their lives who inspire – Balance for Better.

We have selected our winner’s stories to share with you. ‘Mothers and motherhood’ were by far the standout inspirational themes amongst our team. Hardship balanced by resilience, sacrifice balanced by achievement and adversity balanced by hope were reflected in their entries. We hope these stories inspire you as they have inspired us at Vivir.

Our EGM Karen Leighton reflects on how she strived for “Balance for Better” in the workplace. Karen shares her personal story of how the 2019 International Women’s Day theme has touched her personally.

Karen first started her professional career as a Business Manager at an American multinational company, she was often overlooked on invitations to corporate functions open to key clients and male Business Managers. Golfing tournaments at prestigious UK golf courses were not considered a woman’s domain. Karen was, in fact, a very accomplished golfer however, she was never asked to participate – certainly a feeling of lack of inclusion, discrimination and unrecognised potential.

In response, Karen decided to start the first ‘women in diversity’ group. This was embraced by her fellow female colleagues and provided them with a platform to promote diversity and gender balance in the workplace.

As Mother Theresa said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” Karen is proud that she found her voice at this time as all functions subsequently were discussed as a group and invitations were open for all to attend.

To all our Vivir Healthcare lovely ladies who daily bring – Balance for Better – to our clients, staff, team members, residents and community members – you are truly inspirational women!

Keep up the great work in your efforts to achieve – Balance for Better!

“ For me there is countless women in my life that have made, inspired and continued to encourage me in every aspect of my life, shaping me into the person I am today. My mum for one is the single most driven, caring and kind human who some how has managed to bring up 3 daughters as well as managing a husband and further a full time job looking after more children as a primary school teacher. Every day without fail she would manage to work a long 10-12 hour day, come home to a house full of kids, make dinner followed by the washing up, because god forbid the children could actually help – it’s not until I moved out of home I realised just how special she really is, super woman you could say OR just incredibly well versed in the juggling/balancing act that is life.

The second beautiful woman in my life is my partner. This wonderful human (although I may be slightly bias) has pushed me to delve into areas that I may have passed up without a little “loving” nudge. She is understanding and empathetic to all and any issue I have faced. Forever willing to sit there and listen to me rant and rave about whatever it is that may be going on, or ready with killer advice that always seems to come at that exact right time. She is passionate and enthralled in so many aspects of life which continues to inspire me to be the best version of myself.

The list could go on and on, my sisters, my Aunty, my cousin, my nana and all my beautiful friends. I feel beyond blessed to have all these empowered, strong and beautiful women around me, they have pathed the way for me and shown that although life isn’t always easy to handle, balance is inevitably always there if surrounded by the right women. ”

– Gabrielle Treacher, Occupational Therapist

“The woman who has inspired BALANCE in my life is my mother. When I think about balance the first thing that comes to my mind is how a mother, who has been divorced in times where society wasn’t so open to this matter, could raise a child by “herself” and at the same time follow her path to build her career. According to my point of view she was very successful in achieving balance between motherhood and career. She is civil engineer, working for a bank in Logistics department and is very well respected. She raised her daughter (in this case myself) very well I would say (teaching me how to follow my own steps). By giving examples like this you can motivate women in the same condition that are afraid of pursuing their dreams because of their children. Balance in this situation is very important because it allows you to take care of yourself at the same time you take care of others. Abdication is not the way to go, but BALANCE is.”

– Alessandra Bandeira, Payroll Officer

“My Mum.
My Mum is a calm soul. She is a high school teacher, and a very quiet achiever, But, she is not without achievement. She has provided innovative and supportive education to the high school students that she teaches. She is loved by her students and colleagues. She has achieved a senior status of teaching and has never once complained about going to work. She has such a gentle and quiet nature, but will defend her beliefs and achieve what she sets out to achieve. She is such a beautiful person, inside and out, and very humble. She inspires me to be as strong as she is, as great a cook as she is (this is the hard bit!), as calm as she is with my children, as generous as she always is, and as helpful as she always is. My Mum never hesitates to lend a helping hand. She is such a kind and loving person, and that is what I love so much about her. She inspires me, and makes me feel like a more balanced person. I feel like she balances all of us.”

– Anshu Dissamayake, Senior Clinician Physiotherapist

“I would like to take a moment and praise my Mother in law who has been an inspiration for me since last 6 years of my married life.
Not only as a Manager at well known Insurance company in India, but also as a Mother, Grandmother and respected female member she has been role model for so many young generations of our extended family members.
She holds both traditional and modern values in same plate. She has been able to balance her work life and yet keeping the family as tight knot at same time. Keeping her time permitted, she loves playing badminton, cricket and cycling. At 62 years she has started learning swimming and I can proudly tell, she’s best swimmer in family.
A person who cares for family and emotions more than money, I truly look at her as my best guidance. She always take time to call her kids (us) and be first in helping anyone in need.
I am very proud to be called her daughter in law and happy to be part of her family, which is my family now.”

– Sangeeta Solanki, Senior Clinician Physiotherapist

If you’d like to learn more about Vivir Healthcare’s allied health services contact us .

What’s it like for new graduate OTs working in aged care?

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 09:27:18 GMT

We asked our Senior Occupational Therapist, Jordan Labrooy, about what it was like to work in aged care as a new graduate. If you’re looking to develop initiative, a broad skill-set and open multiple career pathways, don’t miss what Jordan has to say.

When did you join Vivir?
I joined Vivir two years ago, as a new graduate occupational therapist. I now work in Melbourne’s Eastern suburbs.

What’s it like for graduate OTs looking for a job?
It can be daunting coming straight out from uni. You hear of other OT grads getting offers from their placements and it’s stressful because you don’t know if there’s a spot for you. You are suddenly part of a larger group of people who are competing for the same jobs as you are, and many of them have had time to develop broad skill-sets. So it was important for me to investigate all my options and look at roles in different settings, including aged care.

What are the clinical skills OTs have from university that they can use in aged care?
The frameworks you learn in uni allow you to apply your OT lens when working in aged care, particularly adding a more holistic and innovative approach to care. No matter what placements you had, be it mental health, paediatrics, or in burns [units], you were helping someone to complete functional tasks like walking, eating, sleeping; all the things we take for granted. OTs transfer these skills to the ageing population and excel in this field because they can look at the “big picture” when assessing these people.

What are the clinical areas OTs need to develop in to work in aged care?
All grad OTs need to develop their clinical reasoning to be sure of yourself. And expand your treatment modalities to maximise outcomes. There’s so many ways to apply your skill-set that in aged care, you make the role your own.

How has Vivir helped you to apply your skill-set?
The good thing about Vivir is that they allow you to flexibly evolve. You’re able to transfer your current skills, then also learn at your own pace. Vivir stress the importance of building rapport with others in your workplace, provide the best care possible, hone in on clinical reasoning skills, try different settings, extend your knowledge for example, your manual therapy skills, manual handling, exercise, mental health and dementia care.

What does a regular day for you look like?
My day consists of conducting the pain management program in residential facilities. I also have the opportunity to complete functional assessment work which is a mix of 1:1 therapy, liaising with the wider clinical team and family members of those living in residential aged care facilities.

Some days I’ve delivered 1:1 treatments to elderly living in their homes which gives further flexibility in my day.

Favourite part about your job?
Being able to observe the elderly people enjoying life.

Best thing about Vivir?
The supportive and flexible environment and great clinicians.

Biggest learning curve?
Implementing OT principles and therapy in this field. At times it can be difficult in a regulated environment which is ever-changing. My ongoing challenge is to advocate for OT in aged care which ultimately empowers the elderly and enables them to better participate in life.

Best advice to give a new graduate OT looking for a job in aged care?
Don’t be hesitant to jump into a role in aged care. For OTs whose ideal situation is a sub-acute hospital job, and don’t get that opportunity, it’s not the be-all and end-all. Aged care is a breeding ground for initiative. There’s a stigma that aged care is slow, every day is the same and that there is no learning and development but in actual fact, it’s one of the highest growing areas, with so many chances to improve your clinical skills. Most employers want to see that you’ve taken initiative to learn in any way you can, so don’t sit around waiting and just get your foot in the door.

What’s next after senior clinician?
Vivir has given me opportunities to improve clinically and professionally. I’m interested in education roles [and] I like the operational side of healthcare. I’ve been able to experience a lot of sides career-wise, so the sky’s the limit.

If you’d like to learn more about Vivir Healthcare’s Graduate Program , please contact us on 1300 184 847 .

The Importance of Occupational Therapy

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 09:32:33 GMT

One of the services that Vivir Healthcare provide is Occupational Therapy (OT). To celebrate the World Occupational Therapy Day (27th of October), we’ve shared a personal story from our own OT, Catherine Hu.

“In occupational therapy, occupations refer to the everyday activities that people do as individuals, in families and with communities to occupy time and bring meaning and purpose to life. Occupations include things people need to, want to and are expected to do."
- Catherine Hu, Occupational Therapist, Vivir Healthcare

Catherine visits homes all around Australia, making a difference to the lives of her elderly clients.

The story below highlights the small differences that can mean the world to someone.

Catherine’s client is Sarah who is an elderly lady living at home with her husband. She is experiencing an increase of fatigue and her mobility is deteriorating. She has been having trouble getting into the bath tub to access the shower. Removing the bath tub would mean Sarah’s husband would need to give up taking baths; a simple yet big joy in his life.

After an OT assessment, Sarah’s family realised there was no need to completely remove the bathtub.

Catherine’s solution and recommendation meant that Sarah could continue showering with the help of a hand rail and bath board. This allows Sarah to be independent and keep her husband happy too!

We work together to make sure that our clients are not giving up what they love. Growing older should not stop you from living your life to the fullest.

For another inspirational story, read Viktor's journey through physical, mental and emotional obstacles, and how his Physiotherapist helped him embrace these challenges.

If you’d like to learn more about Vivir’s allied health services, please contact us on 1300 184 847.

The Agents of Change Project

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:37:22 GMT

Vivir Healthcare has joined an innovative project to make evidence-based service improvements, to people with dementia and their families.

Vivir is partnering with Flinders University in Adelaide, for the Agents of Change project. It is a nationwide study funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), that will support outstanding clinicians working with people with dementia, to implement innovative service improvements. Clinicians will learn how to best promote independence, delay functional decline, and reduce carer stress using evidence-based exercise techniques.

Jean Tung, physiotherapist and Clinical Education Manager, has joined the Agents of Change study to further develop her skills in the delivery of evidence-based exercise therapy for people living with dementia. Jean started as a new graduate physiotherapist with Vivir 6 years ago and worked as a team leader before commencing her role as leader of Clinical Education.

Over the next 18 months, Jean will participate in a structured professional development program, to identify areas for innovation in the organisation and develop a plan to make change happen. She will join a Quality Improvement Collaborative with a diverse group of other clinicians across Australia to learn and share ideas.

“Through my experience as a gerontology physiotherapist, I have noticed that people living with dementia are not routinely encouraged to exercise, or referred for exercise therapy. Physiotherapists are dynamic and influential members in aged care teams. They are best positioned to be advocates of change, to achieve better and meaningful outcomes for this population. I am extremely excited to collaborate with researchers and other allied health clinicians and spread this knowledge to the aged care providers we partner with.”
– Jean Tung, Clinical Education Manager, Vivir Healthcare

The work that Jean will do in the Agents of Change project will expand the allied health services and supports that Vivir offers to its elderly residents and community clients with dementia. These efforts will further establish Vivir Healthcare as leaders in dementia care amongst Australian aged care allied health providers.

“Aged care providers must shift from traditional service delivery models, to models which place the wellness of older Australians, at the centre of care. With more people demanding flexible, tailored and person-centred services, early adopters of these services will remain competitive within the industry. We are looking forward to sharing our knowledge with aged care providers and facilitate more allied health services with a difference.”
– Alyssa Borja, Clinical Services Manager, Vivir Healthcare

Questions about the Agents of Change project can be directed to Jean Tung at jean@vivir.com.au or study coordinator (Flinders University) Monica Cations at monica.cations@flinders.edu.au .

If you’d like to learn more about Vivir’s allied health services, please contact us on 1300 184 847 .

A Business Case for Wellness: A snapshot of Vivir’s wellness services

Wed, 09 May 2018 09:44:37 GMT

Following the recommendations put forward in the 2017 Legislated Review of Aged Care, providers across Australia have been busy embedding wellness and reablement into their organisations.

With an array of new practice models and many pilots underway, the application of wellness and reablement into current practice is inconsistent. As a result, older Australians may miss out on this support in residential aged care.

What needs to change?
Currently, many residents receive government funded allied health services which have specific directives for the treatment of pain. However, each resident needs to be viewed as an individual and often they have other functional needs.

A wellness approach to allied health service delivery, encompasses a multitude of interventions. Each intervention is tailored towards the strengths and goals of the individual. The focus is not only to be free from illness but to pave a pathway towards a better quality of life. A wellness approach supports the active participation in activities the person finds meaningful and fulfilling.

Reablement services within a wellness approach, enables people to regain the skills, function and mobility needed to participate in meaningful activities, after a deterioration in health. Services are goal-oriented and time limited. To ensure the philosophy of wellness is upheld, services are multidisciplinary and holistic in nature, delivered in a flexible and individualised way.

It’s clear that the focus on wellness and building an individual’s capacity has a different focus than the current government funded allied health pain programs. There is a growing body of evidence showing that embedding wellness and reablement will produce more favourable outcomes for older Australians and for providers who invest in organisational change.

The business case for wellness:
The International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) released a 2018 white paper, that highlights how embedding wellness, enables facilities to realise a return on investment, through the following objectives:

Offer a point of difference
Improve occupancy rates
Generate revenue as an additional service stream
Reduce falls and incident reporting
Reduced impact on staffing
Enhance resident and family satisfaction

Vivir’s wellness services
Penny Ralph, physiotherapist and clinical team leader, has led the way in conducting our evidence-based wellness services, demonstrating the difference we make to the lives of residents.

Residents participated in the following groups for six weeks:

Reablement: enabling a person to regain the function for meaningful activities
Active Aging: optimisation of a person’s physical and mental health and well-being

Both groups had a combination of interventions incorporating group exercise for social inclusion, individualised progressive strength and balance exercises and weekly educational discussions.

Exercise therapy was adapted from the Otago exercise program, an evidence-based program which includes the components required for falls prevention. Vivir allied health therapists ensured that exercises reflected goals set by the resident, family members and care staff.

Outcomes and results
Residents in the Reablement and Active Aging groups achieved improved outcomes in terms of strength, falls rates and quality of life.

Resident average monthly fall rates were reduced by 45% after 6 weeks which has a flow-on effect to reducing incident reporting, monetary costs of incidents and the impact on staffing.

Complementing this result, is the improvements in lower extremity strength, demonstrated through the modified 30 second sit to stand; a test which is an excellent predictor of falls. The average functional lower extremity strength of residents more than doubled (124.04%) after 6 weeks.

As part of our commitment to wellness, our results also needed to reflect outcomes that matter for residents. We asked residents about the impact Vivir’s wellness services had on their quality of life and found that after 6 weeks, on average, residents reported:

Physical Functioning: 51% improvement
Bodily pain levels: 125% reduction
Vitality levels: 68% improvement
Emotional well-being: 50% improvement

These results add to the clinical evidence that indicate wellness and reablement services provide a meaningful change in quality of life that matters to residents. By definition, wellness cannot be standardised. It is vital for providers to collaborate with a skilful workforce to provide consumers with choice and remain competitive in the current market.

To see how Vivir can support your organisation in best practice through our range of wellness services, contact us on 1300 184 847.

Knowing Your Millennial Allied Health Workforce

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 09:51:19 GMT

Vivir had the pleasure of attending the LASA Tri-State Conference in Albury this month. There were a wide range of topics presented and much discussion had both during the day and at the conference dinner.

Workforce was a hot topic across several presentations. Here is a summary of my findings.

Aged care is a speciality
Aged care is a broad area and Australia’s senior population has a wide variety of clinical presentations involving neurological, musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory conditions. These conditions are likely to be both chronic and multiple in nature, and there are often other factors, such as cognition and mental health which further complicate the way older people can clinically present.

These complex presentations mean aged care clinicians need to have a broad understanding of all areas to determine primary and secondary contributing factors. They need to possess a wide skillset to effectively treat and support quality of life.

Vivir recognise that an intensive on-boarding process ensures all clinicians are prepared for the requirements of aged care and understand the new industry they are in. Buddy shifts and onsite inductions are also an integral part of on-boarding to ensure new clinicians perform well in these roles.

There is greater opportunity to increase awareness of the skills required and increase the perception of aged care as a speciality.

Aged care is an area people choose, so they can help and care for others
Making Lives Better is Vivir’s motto and something I strive for every day. Attracting like-minded clinicians is at the forefront of our recruitment drives.

The impact our clinicians have on residents’ lives and the subsequent butterfly effect onto those around them is hugely rewarding. There are many aspects where our clinicians can shine, from a simple smile and dedicating time to spend with residents, to thinking outside the box and taking someone kayaking or for walks on the beach.

These moments can go unnoticed. Sharing the successes and rewarding aspects of our work will attract more clinicians to aged care.

Millennials require a different approach to previous generations
Providers who wish to attract new clinicians to the aged care workforce, require new approaches compared to what has been done in the past.

Millennials look for culture, purpose and impact. Vivir understands this and these ideas are weaved into the roles we make available to new clinicians. By putting these ideas at the forefront of everything we do, clinical roles become more engaging and create steps towards a sustainable workforce.

Culture: the number one driver
A sense of belonging
Work-life balance
Accessible management
Variety in work and relevant training
Purpose
Must be values driven
Facilitate self-actualisation
Impact
Celebrate wins in your team and share them

Being aware of these differences is the first step. Second is to know what your culture, purpose and impact is and how you deliver it. Finally, spread your message to passionate clinicians through your people and marketing avenues.

Migration has a large effect on workforce
Migration is increasing in Australia which will impact culture and needs to be considered as part of any workforce. I was particularly interested to know that migration is different between states.

QLD: mostly New Zealand
NSW: mostly China
VIC: mostly India

Knowing these differences allows a more targeted recruitment approach to attract these clinicians into the aged care workforce.

In Jenny Mowatt’s blog, she highlights that Australia faces a dire aged care workforce shortage with half the workers in aged care reaching retirement in a mere fifteen years. This trend is happening fast and all providers across healthcare need to review their workforce strategies now and into the future.

Culture, purpose and impact are contagious, embed this into your organisation and they will come along for the ride.

To see how Vivir can help your organisation with tailored staffing solutions:

Aged Care: A Future-Proof Career Path?

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 09:57:10 GMT

With the rise of ‘Artificial Intelligence’ and outsourcing of Australian jobs, the importance of choosing a career that is ‘future-proof’ is more important than ever. When looking at the supply and demand of workers, the health sector, and in particular the aged care sector, is struggling to meet the demand of an aging population.

This may not be great news for the industry but is however, great news for current health workers, recent graduates and students looking to find a career that will be stable and full of opportunities.

The Aged Care ‘Puzzle’ and what it means for employment longevity
McCrindle Research reports that by 2050 we will only have 5 workers per retired couple compared with the 10 workers we saw in 2010. Clearly demand is rising – which makes a career in Aged Care a fantastic choice for people looking for a reliable and long term career option.

Vivir Healthcare, a leading healthcare provider in the aged care sector, has supported the career growth of allied health professionals for almost 20 years.

The benefits of a career in Aged Care with Vivir Healthcare
An aged care career with Vivir has multiple benefits such as:

Work that truly makes a positive difference to elderly people’s lives daily
Flexibility of hours to suit social and family commitments
Variety of work (see ‘Type of Work’ below)
Various career paths within the company
The flexibility to choose work enviroments
Ability to work as a Locum – suiting people who love to move around to new and different locations and take on new customers and challenges.
Graduate pathways – Vivir graduates can join structured professional development programs to receive coaching and pathways to future team leadership opportunities. Get in touch with us here if you are interested in a discussion around this.
The ability to learn, develop and hone your skills
The ability to convert international experience into Australian recognised qualifications.

I am surrounded by a great team, who are energetic and passionate in what they do. Vivir provides opportunities for growth, personal development, and much needed work-life balance. – Sophiya, Vivir Clinician

The Work Environment
Vivir work environments include:

Aged care facilities

Holistic allied health assessments, care plans and treatments to residents

Community centers

Goal-oriented services delivered to groups in the community

Individual homes

Delivering wellness and re-ablement initiatives to help seniors live at home

Retirement villages

Individualised allied health services catering to the needs of seniors

Health provider support offices.

Supporting and coordinating the services of the wider Vivir network

The Type of Work
The work our clinicians perform includes:

Pain management: A physiotherapy and occupational therapy led program for the treatment and management of pain

Functional and mobility assessment: A consultative physiotherapy and occupational therapy assessment and care plan service

Individual care and treatment plans: Multi-disciplinary care and treatment plans for the overall management of health and well-being

Home and environment assessments: Occupational therapy assessments and tailored recommendations to live safely at home

Telephone support: Delivering dietetics and speech pathology services to seniors via video and voice calls

Want to join our talent community?
Talented people are core to our business and we are always keen to identify people who are highly skilled and potential aspiring team members. We’d love you to be part of our talent community so you can be the first in line to be considered when a new opportunity comes up at Vivir.

Vivir Speech Pathology

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 10:01:43 GMT

Vivir Healthcare can support elderly residents in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACF’s) by providing communication and swallowing assessments and treatments with our team of accredited speech pathologists.

Swallowing difficulties

Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) affects nearly 40-50% of residents in RACFs and results in undesirable outcomes including:
Aspiration pneumonia
Dehydration
Malnutrition
Poor quality of life
Prolonged and increased rates of hospitalisation

It is important to request a swallowing assessment by a speech pathologist when a resident shows signs of aspiration (coughing, choking, or a wet voice after swallowing).

Vivir’s Speech Pathologists are qualified professionals who provide expert advice on swallowing and assist with preventing and improving the swallowing safety of residents at RACF’s. We visit your facility, liaise with your nursing staff and undertake assessments to build tailored care plans. The speech pathologist will make appropriate recommendations that may include modifying foods and/ or fluids and providing safe swallowing strategies that are tailored to the resident’s cognitive status and level of independence.

Communication
Up to 96% of elderly Australians living in RACF’s have a communication disorder. Effective communication is fundamental for everyday living and essential for one’s quality of life.

Vivir’s Speech Pathologists conduct communication assessments and provide therapy and strategies when communication is affected due to conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s Disease and dementia.

What your Vivir speech pathologist can offer:
In addition to speech assessment and treatment services, Vivir’s speech pathologists can offer:

Group Therapy
Residents may benefit from social communication or communication groups targeted specifically for their needs. Groups can include, but are not limited to:

Aphasia groups

Social communication groups

LSVT LOUD for Parkinson’s

Education
Vivir’s Speech Pathologists can also conduct education sessions for catering and kitchen staff, nursing staff, residents and carers.

Topics can include, but are not limited to:

The role of a speech pathologist

Dysphagia:

What dysphagia is

Managing dysphagia

Texture modified diets and thickened fluids

Communication:

Communication-partner training

How to achieve successful communication

What aphasia is

Contact us today to discuss how Vivir’s team of Accredited Speech Pathologists can assist you with improving the communication and swallowing of the residents at your aged care facility.

Can Clinical Pilates benefit elderly Australians?

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 10:05:44 GMT

Part of the Vivir Healthcare’s ‘orange-paper’ series.

In the latest of Vivir’s orange paper series, Alyssa Borja, a physiotherapist specialising in aged care working with Vivir Healthcare, has recently completed the DMA Pilates Level 1 course as part of her professional development. These are part of her learnings.

Clinical Pilates (CP) is gaining popularity amongst physiotherapists, not only as an exercise intervention, but as a specific method to treat low back pain. I undertook the DMA Clinical Pilates course to find out why this approach is so effective and if it can be applied to the elderly population.

What is Clinical Pilates?
DMA Clinical Pilates was created by Craig Phillips (B.App.Sc (Phty) MPhysio (Sports) M.A.P.A) in the late 1980s. He applied the original work of Joseph Pilates to the growing body of research on spinal stability and rehabilitation. He has developed CP into a specific physiotherapy diagnostic tool and treatment method. This is what sets CP trained physiotherapists apart, from instructors who use pilates, for general fitness.

A patient’s treatment is individualised by initially assessing the patient for a preferred movement, or “bias”. This bias is used to treat the patient’s pathology, with non-aggravating movement patterns, which also help to form a safe exercise program.

What is the theory behind Clinical Pilates?
CP works because it ensures all exercises are effective in developing spinal stability. To develop spinal stability is to enhance the overall biomechanical efficiency, or smoothness, of movement from a stable core. Achieving this requires continuous cortical planning of multiple muscle actions, until the central nervous system automises these motor patterns. CP does this by prescribing repetitive complex movement patterns that involve all the core muscles required for spinal stability, working in synergy.

Unfortunately, many exercises still taught by physiotherapists, intended to develop spinal stability, target only isolatory core muscles in a static position. These exercises do not develop motor patterns for spinal stability and instead may result in muscle overactivity, inefficient motor patterns and a rigid neuromuscular system1,2.

What is the research behind Clinical Pilates?
Wajswelner et al. (2012) conducted a single-blinded randomised controlled trial, which compared the benefits of physiotherapy-delivered Clinical Pilates, versus general exercise, for chronic low back pain. All participants attended a one-hour exercise session, twice weekly, for six weeks, then performed follow up exercises at home. The CP group received an individualised direction-specific exercise program prescribed by the physiotherapist. The general exercise (GE) group received a multi-directional generic set of exercises. At six weeks, the CP group were 46% better compared to the GE group at 29% better, in terms of their Quebec scale for pain and disability3. While this was not a statistically significant difference, it has paved the way for more research to be conducted on Clinical Pilates4.

Can Clinical Pilates benefit the elderly population?
DMA has developed an evidence-based method of assessing and treating low back problems. Physiotherapists utilising a CP approach have the clinical reasoning to ensure their elderly patients receive a safe and realistic intervention. It enables physiotherapists to prescribe an exercise intervention that is simple, modifiable, sustainable and time-efficient.

Applying Clinical Pilates to the elderly population
It is essential to consider the elderly patients’ goals and tailor their exercise progression accordingly. The aim with CP is to always achieve what is functional.

In the older population, it is often more challenging to find a pilates movement that is pain-free for assessing and prescribing as an exercise, due to multiple painful regions. However, there is a wide selection within the DMA level one pilates exercises which can be modified and slowly be progressed (diagram 1).

Diagram 1: Level 1 DMA Pilates biased exercises.

Consider the following when choosing CP as a treatment modality for elderly residents in an aged care facility:

Are there any injuries that may affect the ability of the resident to complete the exercises?
Will the resident require standing exercise alternatives?
Does the resident understand my instructions?
Can the resident transfer from the treatment surface?
Does the resident require supervision for the exercises? How frequently?
Will I need to involve carers or family members?
Do the necessary people have access to an exercise sheet and precautions?
What are my goals for the resident? What is functional?

DMA Clinical Pilates is an effective tool for the assessment and treatment of elderly patients with spinal stability issues. In particular, finding pain-free ways to initiate exercise for older adults suffering with low back pain, is invaluable for patient compliance.

References
1 Morris SL, L. B. (2012). Corset Hypothesis Rebutted–Transversus Abdominis Does Not Co-Contract In Unison Prior To Rapid Arm Movements. Clinical Biomechanics, 27(3):249-54.
2 Eversull BS, S. M. (2001). Neuromuscular Neutral Zones Sensitivity To Lumbar Displacement Rate. Clinical Biomechanics, 16(2):102-13.
3 Wajswelner H. (2012). Clinical Pilates Versus General Exercise For Chronic Low Back Pain:
A Randomised Trial. Medicine & Science In Sports & Exercise, 44(7):1197-1205.
4 Tulloch E, P. C. (2012). DMA Clinical Pilates Directional-Bias Assessment: Reliability And Predictive Validity. The Journal Of Orthopaedic And Sports Physiotherapy , 42(8):676-87.