Q: Can you tell us about your role as a Physiotherapist?
I’ve been a physiotherapist for the past 10 years, with four of those years spent working in residential aged care facilities in Australia. Currently, I work at the Pilgrim Aged Care Home in Kallangur.
Q: What or who inspired you to become a physiotherapist?
My inspiration came from witnessing a friend’s remarkable recovery from a brain injury through intensive physiotherapy during my school years. Seeing the difference it made in his quality of lifeinspired me to pursue this field. It’s truly rewarding to witness the improvements and happiness that canbe achieved through physiotherapy.
Q: Can you tell us about the ‘Sunbeam Program’ and how it relates to your work?
The Sunbeam program has proven effective in preventing falls among the elderly*. Falls in older adults can result from many factors, including environment, nutrition, decreased cognition, and reduced strength and balance. The program focuses on improving those functions through supervised resistance training and group exercise; and has been shown to reduce fall risks, reduce the fear of falling, and improve the overall quality of life for the elderly.
Q: Why is falls prevention so important for residents in aged care facilities?
Falls among the elderly can lead to immobility or disability, significantly impacting their quality of life. Most musculoskeletal and skin injuries in the elderly stem from falls, which can result in lack of basic function, decreased activity, social isolation, and even depression. Preventing falls holistically can significantly improve quality of life, enhance socialisation, and boost confidence while engaging in activities.
Q: We’ve heard that you will soon receive a delivery of exercise equipment, all the way from Finland. How does your current exercise regime for residents look, and how will this new equipment change it?
We’re thrilled about the new equipment; including machines with specialised smart technology, resistance equipment, parallel bars and free weights. Currently, we conduct group exercises with a focus on functional movements and coordination three times a week, together with one-on-one strength training. When the new equipment arrives, we plan to work in small groups, targeting strength and balance exercises. This change is expected to have a significant impact on reducing falls in our aged care facility. Look out for future updates on this amazing program which was made possible with your support!
*APA | April Falls: Sunbeam trial shines a light on falls prevention exercise (australian.physio)
