Arthritis affects millions of Australians, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life. While many may seek treatment from their general practitioner or other specialists, one often overlooked avenue for relief is the power of podiatry in managing arthritis. We spoke to Plena Podiatrist Kade Anderson to understand the invaluable role podiatrists play in managing arthritis in the feet and lower limbs, exploring the benefits and importance of seeking podiatric treatment for arthritis in Australia.   Understanding the Role of Podiatrists in Arthritis Management   Podiatrists a ..read more

The Plena Care Pathway was the winner of the 2023 Allied Health Award for Innovative Product Excellence and is Plena Healthcare’s industry-leading physiotherapy & occupational therapy service model. The Plena Care Pathway supports residents with access to tailored allied health services, through their entire residential aged care journey. The Pathway is available to all residents; it incorporates mobility and functional assessments and co-designed programs, falls management frameworks, care plan reviews, one-to-one therapy interventions and dynamic group-based active ageing services. Pl ..read more

In our modern age, where bustling lives often overshadow concerns about safety, there’s a prevalent yet often overlooked danger lurking in our homes: falls. These seemingly mundane accidents can have devastating consequences, particularly for older adults. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, people over the age of 65 are more likely to be hospitalised or die from a fall compared with other life stages. But falls need not be an inevitable part of ageing, and there are many things we can do to reduce our risk. According to Plena Community Occupational Therapist Laine Ha ..read more

What Is An Orthotic?   Orthotics, also known as orthoses, refer to externally applied devices inserted into shoes to address various foot conditions, alleviate foot pain, and manage foot pathologies. These devices are crafted to snugly fit within shoes, providing enhanced foot support and functionality.  How Can An Orthotic Help?   Orthotics modify the pressure transmitted from the ground to the ankle and foot during standing, walking, or running, thereby influencing the ground reaction force, and aiding in foot mechanics. Given the individual variation in foot structure, iss ..read more

Community Occupational Therapists (OTs) Are Aged Care Specialists, On The Road Supporting Home Care Consumers Nationally With Various Supports.   Building a Stronger Community OT Workforce   In today’s healthcare landscape, referrals rely heavily on trust and confidence. For healthcare providers seeking top-notch Occupational Therapists (OTs), Plena Healthcare stands out. Plena Healthcare has committed to investing in Occupational Therapists, ensuring they’re well-equipped to deliver exceptional care within the community setting.   The Plena Healthcare Difference: A ..read more

What Is Manual Handling Training For Aged Care?  Manual Handling Training for Aged Care ensures the well-being of both employees and consumers in the work environment. Training equips employees with the required skills and knowledge to properly provide home care services whilst following the accurate risk management process.  Did you know the aged care and disability (care services) industry is responsible for almost a third of all worker’s compensation claims each year?   Carers and Aides account for 31% of all claims.   This statistic contrasts every other sec ..read more

Engaging a Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Your Consumer’s Care Can Have Many Significant and Profound Health and Wellness Benefits. What is a Multi-Disciplinary Team? A group of health professionals, known as a multi-disciplinary team (MDT), collaborate to assist consumers. They bring their individual skills and perspectives to the table. The team works together to provide comprehensive care and support. Their combined efforts aim to improve the well-being of the consumers.   Why is a Multi-Disciplinary Team Important?  Multi-disciplinary clinical teams work together to help consu ..read more

The Case For Early Intervention Allied Health For Aged Care Residents: Insights From Australia’s Leading Allied Health Provider  As Australia’s leading provider of allied health services to ageing Australians, Plena Healthcare is passionate about the benefits of evidence-based allied health services and creating a positive impact on aged care residents’ wellbeing and quality of life.   We understand the balancing act required by aged care providers in meeting the varied needs of residents, while also meeting their regulatory obligations. We pride ourselves on partnering with ag ..read more

Did you know that 37% of injury related deaths are the result of falls?   This week marks Falls Prevention Week, raising awareness of the risks of falls, and the preventative measures we can take to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.   Falls among the elderly, especially within residential aged care (RAC), are common and can have serious consequences. According to research, approximately 30% to 50% of older individuals residing in aged care facilities experience falls each year, with 40% of them enduring recurrent falls.   “As we age we become fragile and more frail, so one ..read more

The life of an occupational therapist is varied, dynamic and rewarding. Your work has a meaningful impact on the lives of clients, restoring safety, function and independence.  OTs work across many areas of healthcare, from private practice to workplace health and safety, through to residential aged care and community settings. This breadth of opportunity is an exciting prospect for an OT, but with it comes a vast range of specialist knowledge and training that needs to be acquired to work in each area.  As a specialist allied health provider servicing the aged care community, Plena ..read more