Nutrition and Independence: Why Early Support Matters for Older Australians
Many hospital admissions in older Australians are preventable — and one of the most common contributing factors is poor nutrition.
When older adults don’t get enough nutrients on a daily basis, they become more vulnerable to:
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Muscle weakness and falls
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Delayed wound healing
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Immune decline and infections
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Depression and fatigue
It’s not always due to neglect. Sometimes the person is simply too tired to cook, lacks the appetite, or struggles with chewing and digestion.
How Home Care Packages can help:
Nutrition support — such as ready-to-consume shakes — can be included in a client’s care plan if it addresses a clearly identified need. The right supplement:
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Helps maintain body weight and muscle mass
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Provides essential nutrients in small, easy servings
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Can reduce the risk of deterioration that leads to hospitalisation
As a provider, spotting these early warning signs and acting quickly can make a major difference to client outcomes.