Health and Wellbeing

Health and Wellbeing

Living well as we age is about more than just staying out of the doctor’s office. It’s about feeling good, staying connected, and being able to do the things we love – whether that's going for a stroll in the sunshine, spending time with grandkids, or having a natter with friends over a cuppa.

In Australia, we’re fortunate to have a wide range of resources and services designed to support older adults in leading healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives.

This page offers a practical, friendly summary (with more details in other pages) to key areas of health and wellbeing for older Australians, including:

• Staying active and mobile as we age
• Understanding and managing hearing loss
• Embracing assistive technology and aids for daily living
• Supporting mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Nutrition and eating well later in life
• Staying socially connected and reducing loneliness
• Accessing healthcare and wellbeing services

Active Living – Move It or you will Lose It

Let’s start with the big one – staying physically active. Keeping your body moving as you age helps to maintain balance, strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health.

But the benefits go beyond just physical fitness – regular movement also boosts mood, sharpens your mind, and improves sleep.

Exercise Doesn’t Have to Be Intense

Don't worry – you don’t need to train for a marathon or join a gym if that’s not your style. A simple 30-minute walk each day, a gentle yoga class, gardening, tai chi, dancing around the lounge room – it all counts!

Balance and Strength Are Key

Falls are one of the biggest risks for older Australians. Strength and balance training (like using resistance bands or practicing single-leg stands) can help reduce this risk significantly.

Check Out Seniors Fitness Programs

There are many senior-friendly fitness programs around the country. Look for local walking groups, aqua aerobics, or strength and balance classes – many councils and neighbourhood houses offer these at low or no cost.

Hearing Loss – A Common, Manageable Part of Ageing

Hearing loss affects around 1 in 3 people over the age of 65. But here’s the good news: there are more options than ever to manage it, and the earlier you address hearing changes, the better the outcomes for your communication, safety and social life.

Early Signs of Hearing Loss

• Struggling to follow conversations in noisy places
• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
• Turning up the TV or radio volume louder than others prefer
• Feeling withdrawn in social situations

Getting a Hearing Test

If you're noticing changes in your hearing, the first step is to book a free hearing test. There are many providers – including Australian Government Hearing Services Program providers – that offer fully subsidised hearing assessments for eligible seniors.

Hearing Aids and Assistive Listening Devices

Today’s hearing aids are much more discreet, powerful and smart than they used to be. They can even connect to your phone or TV! If you’re eligible through the Hearing Services Program or the NDIS, you may be able to access funding support. Assistive listening devices – like personal amplifiers or TV streamers – can also be incredibly helpful.

Living Well with Hearing Loss

Using hearing aids, improving room acoustics at home, and learning communication tips (like lip-reading or using captions) can make a big difference to your quality of life.

Assistive Technology – Your New Best Friend

Assistive technology (AT) is a broad term for any gadget, tool or device that helps you do things more easily and safely. Whether it’s opening a jar, remembering to take your meds, or hearing the phone ring – there’s probably a piece of AT that can help!

Examples of Useful Assistive Tech

• Smart pill dispensers and medication reminders
• Mobility aids like walkers, canes, and scooters
• Voice-activated assistants (like Google Home or Alexa)
• Shower chairs and grab rails for bathroom safety
• Magnifiers and talking books for low vision
• Home sensors and fall detectors

Funding and Support for Assistive Tech

If you’re over 65 and receive a Home Care Package or Commonwealth Home Support Program services, you may be able to access AT through your package.

NDIS also provides assistive technology support for those under 65 with a permanent disability.

Emotional and Mental Health – Just as Important

Emotional wellbeing matters at every age. Yet many older adults experience challenges like isolation, grief, anxiety or depression – especially during big life changes like retirement or after losing a partner.

Signs You Might Need Support

• Loss of interest in hobbies or socialising
• Changes in appetite or sleep
• Persistent sadness, worry or irritability
• Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless

There’s No Shame in Reaching Out

Your GP is a great place to start. They can refer you to a psychologist or mental health care service under a Medicare plan. You can also call helplines like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14) for support.

Staying Emotionally Healthy

Staying socially connected, having a daily routine, volunteering, or taking up a hobby all help boost mental wellbeing. Keeping your mind active – through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills – also helps maintain cognitive health.

Nutrition – Food Is Fuel for Healthy Ageing

As we age, our nutritional needs change. We may need fewer calories, but more of certain nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein. Staying well-nourished helps with energy levels, muscle strength, bone density, and even mood.

Eat the Rainbow

Try to eat a variety of colourful fruits and veggies each day. Whole grains, lean proteins (like fish, chicken, tofu or legumes), dairy or dairy alternatives, and healthy fats (like avocado and olive oil) all support wellbeing.

Watch Out for Common Nutritional Issues

• Dehydration – older adults often don’t feel thirsty, so sip water regularly
• Reduced appetite – try smaller, more frequent meals if needed
• Low fibre – add whole grains, fruit and veggies to avoid constipation

Help with Shopping and Meal Prep

If cooking or shopping is a challenge, there are plenty of meal delivery services that cater to seniors and dietary needs. Home Care Packages can often include this support too.

Social Connection – Vital for Longevity

Feeling connected to others isn’t just “nice to have” – it’s a key factor in living longer, happier lives. Studies show that social isolation is as risky to health as smoking or obesity. So staying socially active is essential!

Ways to Stay Connected

• Join a sports or book club, hobby group or Men’s Shed
• Join a club, hobby group or Men’s Shed
• Volunteer in your community
• Attend classes or groups at your local neighbourhood house
• Schedule regular phone or video chats with friends and family
• Adopt a pet or get involved in pet fostering programs

Digital Connection Counts Too

Many older Australians are now embracing technology to stay in touch. Learning to use email, video calls, and social media can open up a world of new social opportunities. Community centres often run tech help sessions specifically for seniors.

Accessing Health and Wellbeing Services

It’s great to know that you don’t have to do it all alone. Australia has a strong aged care and health system designed to help older adults stay well, supported, and independent for as long as possible.

Home Care Services

Whether you need a little help around the house, allied health support, or case management, Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Program services can provide what you need.

Community Health Services

Check out your local community health centre for services like physiotherapy, dietetics, podiatry, mental health counselling and more – often at low or no cost to pensioners.

My Aged Care

Visit My Aged Care to find and apply for government-funded aged care services. It’s your gateway to support for living independently at home.

Health is a Lifelong Journey

Looking after your health and wellbeing is one of the best investments you can make in your retirement years. From staying physically active and managing hearing loss, to using assistive tech and keeping your social calendar full – there’s plenty you can do to thrive, not just survive, in older age.

And remember – Silver Lifestyle is here to guide you every step of the way. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into each of these topics in upcoming articles. Because living well in later life isn’t just possible – it’s your right.

Need more information or support? Explore the rest of Silver Lifestyle or get in touch – we’d love to hear from you!

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