Seniors Health Information & Resources
As always, health information you might find on the internet, in publications or get from friends is at best a guide and is no substitute for advice from a real doctor.
This site does not have detailed information about health matters. It has links to other sites which may include the detail you are after. If you are seeking information on a particular disease or condition, such as high blood pressure or angina, go to one of the links below.
- For comprehensive information on health matters go to the Australian Government departments:
- Australian Medical Websites. A list of many of the medical websites within Australia.
Go there
- Adverse Medicine Events. Consumer access to advice about adverse drug reactions and medication errors through the Adverse Medicine Events consumer reporting hotline.
Go there
or phone Adverse Medicine Events Line 1300 134 237
- Better Health Channel. Established by the Victorian Government, its role is to provide the community with access to online health information which is quality assured, reliable, up-to-date, and locally relevant. Under the topic "Life stages" are more than 60 articles for seniors.
Go there
- Drug database at myDr. Information on prescription, over-the-counter and some alternative medicines available in Australia.
Go there
- GastroNet Australia provides accurate, up-to-date information for patients, to be used with guidance from health professionals. The site includes information and links on gastrointestinal diseases, special diets and patient support organisations.
Go there
- HealthAtoZ is a comprehensive health and medical resource developed by healthcare professionals. The site includes interactive tools, community tools, and information centres giving free and fast access to health and medical information.
Go there
- HealthInsite is an Australian Government initiative. It aims to improve the health of Australians by providing quality information from leading health information providers. A comprehensive resource of up-to-date information on topics such as diabetes, cancer, mental health, hypertension and asthma. Grouping is by lifestyle, conditions and diseases, life stages and events and population groups.
Go there
- Health Network is an online health information database separated into life stages. You can also browse by condition, treatment and test. It also publishes a wide range of information on worldwide health and welfare issues for travellers.
Go there
- Holistic Medicine. Holistic-online provides detailed information about holistic, integrative, alternative, and mind-body therapies. Topics include natural remedies, nutrition, vitamins and minerals.
Go there
- Home Medicines Review. You may benefit from this program if you take a number of medicines, if you are having difficulty with your medicines or if you have recently been discharged from hospital or from care. Talk to your GP or pharmacist if you think you might benefit from a home medicines review. The government pays the pharmacist and the GP's service will be charged the same as for any other consultation (that is, it may be bulk billed or you pay the doctor and claim a medicare rebate). Find out more:
Go there
Phone PBS Information Line: Freecall 1800 020 613
- The US Mayo Clinic's comprehensive website has a wealth of information on disease management and medicines. The Drug Information covers prescription and over-the-counter drugs (in the US).
Go there
- Medicines Line is a National Prescribing Service (NPS) telephone information service which provides consumers with independent and accurate information about the safe and effective use of their medicines.
Go there
Phone 1300 888 763, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm EST.
- MEDLINEplus Health Information is a service of the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. 'Health Topics'; has information on conditions, diseases and wellness, plus a medical encyclopedia, and "Drug Information" has details on generic and brand name drugs.
Go there
- Men's Health Program is from the Department of Veterans' Affairs. While aimed at veterans, most of the information is applicable to all men.
Go there
- Multicultural Health Communication Service, NSW provides information on various health topics in many languages including English.
Go there
- Olderwise from the Wesley Healthwise Centre in Queensland aims to:
- Supply older people with information that is current, relevant and accurate;
- Provide a means by which you can identify health services and resources;
- Assist you in your search for information.
In addition to general health advice there is information and links for major conditions of the body and mind. Go there
- Pelvic Floor Function...and the Bowel. This website is aimed at women who have bowel problems which may relate to pelvic floor muscle weakness.
Go there
- Preventing Falls. NSW Health has a comprehensive report 'Preventing Injuries from Falls in Older People.' It discusses the many causes of falls and the countermeasures that can be applied.
Go there
- Science for Seniors. This US site has the latest information about diabetes, congestive heart failure, alzheimers, cancer and ageing. Science for Seniors is about making sure we are not left behind on the road ahead when it comes to senior health medicine, assistive technologies and new knowledge that can empower seniors.
Go there
Aches and pains
No matter how fit and healthy you try to keep yourself, getting up from the sofa without a groan or a creak isn’t easy. About Seniors has some handy tips on combating the most common ailments or how to recognise when pain may be an indication of something more serious.
Click the links below to view the downloadable PDF’s.
A pain in the… joints
A pain in the… heel
A pain in the… shoulder
A pain in the… chest
A pain in the… wrist
Super foods
Simple diet changes can help boost the immune system, improve cholesterol levels and even prevent cancer. Try adding some of these super foods to your everyday diet and reap the benefits.
Raw beetroot
Stay away from the tins of beetroot in sweet vinegar and try some raw, grated beetroot on salads and sandwiches. Beetroot is high in folate, which protects your heart and is high in antioxidants, which can prevent cancer.
Frozen peas
Frozen vegetables are often dismissed as being inferior to the fresh variety but freezing peas as soon as they are picked locks in the goodness of B vitamins - which give you energy, vitamin C and soluble fibre, which keeps your cholesterol in check.
Dark chocolate
Another source of antioxidants, dark chocolate may not be as popular as the milk variety but it’s better for your health and your waistline! Look for bars which contain at least 70% cocoa.
Prunes
The benefits of prunes on bowel movements are well documented but why is this so? Ferulic acid and natural sugars balance diets that are rich in red meat. This helps clean the digestive system and may offer protection from bowel cancer.
Fennel
Aside from the lovely aniseed flavour, fennel is also a rich source of vitamin C, which helps keep your joints healthy and boost immune systems. Fennel is truly a super food as the high levels of fibre, folate and potassium in this often under-used vegetable promotes cardiovascular and colon health.
Turmeric
Spices were often originally used for their associated health benefits rather than their flavour. Turmeric, in particular, is rich in curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and offers protection against bowel cancer.
For more foods that can help keep you healthy, visit Foodwatch.com.au.
Chasing the blues
Graeme Cowan is using the power of stories to help sufferers and those who love and care for them to cope with depression, as Di Websdale-Morrissey reports.
One night in 1988, in the small and lonely hours, 31-year-old Graeme Cowan left his wife asleep in bed, his daughter dreaming in her cot and tried to hang himself. Not once, but three times that night, he tried to end his life – and with it, his intractable depression. When the first rope snapped, he tried a stronger one; when that broke, he used a belt. Fortunately none worked, so Graeme thought that perhaps he was not meant to die that night, and called Lifeline.
On the surface Graeme Cowan was one of life’s success stories – he had a loving family and a well-paid corporate job. A casual observer would not have picked him as a person whose life had been savaged by the black dog of depression – and that is so often the case. If family and friends are unaware there is a problem, it festers in the dark, below the shiny surface and the pretence of coping. Graeme successfully hid his pain, even from his wife.
Since then he has written two books to help people understand depression and the many forms it can take. Unfortunately, his market is vast. Annually, more than three-quarters of a million Australians discuss depressive feelings with their GPs.
In Back from the Brink, Graeme talks primarily to the sufferer – explaining what is happening, and helping them to understand that their experiences, fears and isolation are shared with many others. But the nightmare can be just as destructive to those who love a depressed person, but feel unprepared, confused and just as lost. His second book, Back from the Brink Too, speaks to families and friends, helping them understand depression and explaining how they can improve life for the sufferer and themselves.
The books are the product of Graeme’s initial search for material about what he was going through. There were plenty of technical texts, but none told the stories he sought – stories that demonstrated how others have coped with their own black dogs.
“I yearned for stories about real people and their experiences,” he says. “Look at the books that have been around for a long time – the Bible and other religious texts – people like the parables, the stories.” Graeme believes that by telling true stories of people with depression – stories from former Olympians, politicians, poets and ordinary Australians, he can reach a wider range of people.
“I wanted to tell real stories that would make people feel less alone and would give them hope. I get emails from people who’ve read my books and they quote from different stories. Each reader finds a different person and story to connect with.”
For Graeme, that night in 1988 was not a turning point – there was no epiphany, but he slowly healed. In 2001, the depression returned and in 2004 he would again attempt suicide. He has made a long journey since then, one that included hospitalisation, electro convulsive therapy, medication and counselling. None proved an easy panacea or quick fix-it. Instead his sense of wellbeing evolved through a range of approaches. He does point to group counselling as an important contributor to his mental health, because it required him to set weekly exercise and social contact goals.
“That got me to about four out of 10 on the wellbeing scale, but it provided forward momentum.” He then heard bout the value of meditation and went to an Indian spiritual organisation for instruction. “After four or five months of meditation, I started to recover, reaching about seven on the scale.”
Now he could finally access sufficient energy and motivation to tackle the book that had been waiting for his attention. Its seeds, planted in the darkest of soils, resulted in a text of light and hope for people across the globe. Graeme sells to the United Kingdom, United States, the Middle East and Scandinavia.
The black dog roams with distressing freedom across geographical and social borders. And what of Graeme – all fixed now? Not definitively, but he can recognize the signs if the hound starts to nibble at his well-constructed defences. He knows that when he wakes in the early hours unable to get back to sleep, all is not well.
“I’m not so much fearful of slipping back, as hyper vigilant. When I see the warning signs I ask myself, ‘Have I been doing too much? Am I getting enough exercise?’ I then put my corrective plan into action. I aim for three outcomes: health and vitality; close, intimate relationships; a prosperous career – in that order. Once the career would have won out.”
Graeme acknowledges that there are many opinions out there about how one can achieve wellness. “Psychiatrists will tell you that it’s found in pills; psychologists will talk about cognitive changes; sociologists will speak of support networks. I believe in an holistic approach.” He lists seven things that help a sufferer back from the brink:
• exercise
• family/friends’ support
• counselling
• fulfilling work
• meditation
• nutrition
• medication.
Graeme worked closely with the Black Dog Organisation when researching his books. His insider knowledge coupled with their expert help and his heart for the work of helping others are reflected in Back from the Brink Too being named SANE Australia’s Book of the Year for 2009.
MORE
You can learn more about Graeme Cowan and order his books on his website, which also offers a range of information, news, education and advice on depression.
Web www.iambackfromthebrink.com
Overcoming shyness
Most people experience shyness from time to time but it can be a real hindrance for some, excluding them completely from social situations.
Some very famous and successful people suffer from shyness – Donnie Osmond, Barbara Streisand and even Sir Lawrence Olivier have found themselves red-faced and speechless when facing an audience. Understanding what causes shyness and the symptoms, can help you develop mechanisms to deal with tricky situations.
Blushing, sweating, stuttering, sweating, feeling faint or dizzy are all common symptoms of shyness. New situations, speaking in public, job interviews or talking to someone important are just some of the situations, which may bring on a bout of shyness.
If you suffer from shyness, taking a few steps before you find yourself in an awkward situation can help you deal with the symptoms:
· Learn some breathing exercises – slowing down your heart rate will stop the dizzy feelings and will give you a little time to compose yourself.
· Practice a standard response for meeting new people – introductions usually follow the same patter so have a few answers ready and you won’t feel as though you’ve been put on the spot.
· Practice speaking to small groups – try family and friends and talk about subjects which interest you and with which you feel comfortable.
· Slow your speech down if you tend to stutter or stammer. Just take your time, try to relax and let the other person hear what you have to say.
· Always have a tissue on hand to wipe away those beads of perspiration. You may not be able to stop the sweating but you can make sure few people notice.
· Improve your social skills, smile and be friendly and, if you feel comfortable enough, say hello to someone who catches your eye.
· Be upfront – tell people you are shy. More often than not, people will have felt the same at some point and will be able to relate to what you are going through.
Of course, sometimes shyness can be so extreme that it has a devastating effect on your life. In these cases, it is more likely to be anxiety and you may need to consult a doctor or seek some counselling to get to the bottom of these feelings.
For more information on shyness and anxiety, visit Shyness and Social Anxiety Treatment Australia.
Taking the test
We could understand the humble X-ray, but what do all those mysterious acronyms associated with today’s medical imaging really mean?
Di Websdale-Morrissey explains.
You leave your doctor’s consulting room happily clutching a prescription and referrals for blood tests and an MRI, but the language is foreign and the nature of the tests is unclear. Now, did the GP tell you to fast for the MRI, or was that for the blood test? Is it the test that is expensive, or was it the new medication? Doctors’ appointments can be fraught affairs in which you are often given both feedback about your symptoms and several sets of instructions. However patiently the doctor explains your management plan, barriers such as fear of diagnosis and even feelings of intimidation can block much of the information. No wonder many arrive at the radiology appointment unsure of what is about to happen.
We live in an age when medical imaging has reached extraordinary heights. In addition to the traditional radiograph (X-ray), medical practitioners have a veritable alphabet soup of imaging techniques with which to create images of our bodies’ interiors: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imagery); PET (Positron Emission Tomography); CT scans (Computerised Tomography). They are marvellous aids to diagnosis and treatment, but even when the acronyms are spelt out, most of us are still unclear about how they work or why they have been requested. Even the department names can be confusing – whereas we used to look for the X-ray or radiology
department, we are now more likely to find what we need labelled Diagnostic or Medical Imaging. This makes sense given the vast array of imaging wizardry such departments house, but for the uninitiated, it can be confusing.
Then there is the niggling issue of radiation – how much is too much? We have been told for years that too many X-rays can cause problems and some tests require an injection of radioactive isotopes. Will one more chest X-ray, or a sojourn in a PET scanner, leave us glowing in the dark? Clearly no, but any questions you have are valid and
you have a right to ask them. Often the best person to ask will be your radiologist (see ‘Testing terms’ box).
The term ‘radiation exposure’ comes laden with thoughts of atomic bombs and reactor breakdowns. Yes, it is something of which we should be mindful, but a little knowledge can allay fears and debunk apocryphal stories. Let’s examine the facts: we are constantly bombarded with low amounts from cosmic background radiation and other environmental sources that pose no great threat. In Australia, we have little cause to worry about radiation from our geology, although in places such as Cornwall and Aberdeen in the United Kingdom, granite deposits emit radon gas, which has been implicated in a higher incidence of lung cancer.
A four-hour flight involves the same X-ray exposure as one chest X-ray – that is, it poses a one in a million risk of causing cancer. Higher dose health examinations, such as CT body scans, carry a one in 10,000 to one in 1000 risk. Considering that we all have a one in three chance of developing cancer anyway, the test’s risk is worthwhile if it materially helps our health management. Radiologists are skilled in using the least amount of exposure to produce optimal results.
Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) representative Dr Catherine Mandel says, “One of the guiding principles in radiology is ALARA: As Low As Reasonably Achievable. Still, you shouldn’t have a test that does not have the potential to alter your management. Unnecessary tests are a waste of time and money, may cause stress and anxiety and can expose patients to more radiation than they need.”
Medibank statistics indicate a high level of referral for CT of the lumbar spine. Dr Mandel says, “This is a high dose procedure and some patients seem to be referred for a CT every time they have back pain. Guidelines suggest that unless there are ‘red flag’ sign/symptoms, or the pain persists for several weeks, imaging is not appropriate. This situation is made more complex in Australia because GPs cannot refer patients for MRI of the spine (the test of choice if imaging is needed) so they fall back on CT. It would not be appropriate to perform an MRI on every patient with back pain, but GPs tell us that patients often expect them to order a test.”
An independent report commissioned by RANZCR’s Quality Use of Diagnostic Imaging (QUDI) program flagged a significant incidence of referrals for spinal X-rays from chiropractors – far more than any other allied health profession. These are usually images of the whole spine and pelvis, some of the higher dose plain X-rays, and thus involve incidental higher dose exposure to more sensitive tissues such as thyroid, breasts and gonads.
RANZCR is committed to helping demystify the world of radio-diagnostics so that patients can understand the
nature of their imaging tests. To this end, QUDI is producing a helpful guide and hopes this will answer many of our questions; leaflets will be available in June 2009 from www.ranzcr.edu.au.
Dr Mandel has this sage advice for anyone using an imaging service:
• If you don’t understand the nature of the test or why it has been requested – ask. This is your body and your money, so find out the reason for the test and how it will help your health management.
• Keep your old films and bring them with you. Radiologists who see a spot on your images cannot know how long it has been there, or whether it has grown, unless they have a past image for comparison.
• Provide the radiologist with relevant information. Some conditions and implants can preclude the use of some imaging techniques. For example, a pacemaker eliminates MRI from the radiology options. Any metal must be discussed before MRI. Tell your radiologist about any recent metal implants such as screws, plates (even tattoos, which often have metal particles in the dye). As a rule, the MRI can proceed once implants have attached firmly to surrounding tissue, but even then radiologists can better interpret the results if they know about the metal implants. Aneurysm clips must be declared, as should any metal lodged in the eye. The MRI’s magnetic field might cause them to shift and damage delicate tissues.
• Be patient if you have been asked to wait while the films are checked for technical adequacy. If more are required don’t worry – it might simply mean that the image was not of sufficient quality for effective assessment.
• You will usually be sent home and asked to contact your doctor for the results. Many tests take considerable time to assess accurately, and radiologists should not be hurried – their work is exacting and a thorough check is undeniably better than a cursory one.
• Ensure that you contact the referring doctor to get your results, even though some doctors will take a ‘don’t call me, I’ll call you if there is a problem’ attitude. Mistakes happen. Occasionally a report goes astray and an organizationally challenged doctor might not realise the report is missing.
Be your own best advocate in matters of medical imaging. Ask the practitioner – whether medical or allied health practitioners such as physiotherapists or chiropractors – what the results of any tests will mean for your treatment. If the answer does not justify the test, consider carefully before proceeding. The exposure should be weighed against the benefits and often the knowledge gained by the procedure far outweighs any small risk. If in doubt – ask a radiologist or go to the RANZCR website, which is reliable, current and comes clean of vested interest.
We live in an age of great medical technology, but also an age of easily accessed expert information, so don’t feel confused or intimidated by that radiological referral.
Testing terms
Radiologist: a doctor who has specialised in the use of imaging techniques for diagnosis and treatment.
Radiographer: a medical imaging technologist skilled in the use of imaging machinery.
Plain X-rays pass small amounts of radiation in the form of X-rays through a part of the body to detail the structures through which it passes. They are mostly used to image uncomplicated bone fractures, breasts (mammography) and chest problems.
Fluoroscopy uses a continuous beam of low dose X-rays to watch what is happening inside the body in real time. It allows radiologists to perform interventions such as angiography, thrombolysis and other guided procedures.
Computerised tomography uses X-rays to visualise slices of the body in affected areas. Radiologists can reconstruct the axial images to visualise other planes and use 3D rendering. It is used to examine soft tissue and the spine.
Ultrasound uses low energy sound waves. It is most effectively used to examine the kidneys, liver, ovaries/testes and thyroid.
MRI uses strong magnetic fields and non-ionising radio waves. It usually examines the brain and spinal cord and also the joints, rectum, cervix, prostate, breasts and liver.
PET tracks pairs of gamma rays emitted by short-lived radioactive isotopes and is introduced into the bloodstream by injection (nuclear medicine also uses injected radio isotopes). PET can detect cellular changes and be used to identify tumours and certain brain diseases.
MORE
Fact sheets on health and ionising radiation:
Web - www.arpansa.gov.au
Medicines and travel
If you are a slave to your medication, going on holiday can be more of a chore than a fun journey. Follow these few simple rules to ensure smoother travel.
Before you go, consider the following:
· Do you have enough medication to last the whole of your trip? If not, ask your doctor for a repeat prescription that you can be filled while away.
· Does your medication require specific storage? If your medication needs to be kept cold, consider a small cool box to keep it at the required temperature.
· Do you have the right documentation if travelling overseas? Some countries may not allow you through immigration if you don’t have the correct documentation, original packaging or a letter from your doctor.
If you have any doubts about travelling with medication, ask your pharmacist or visit the National Prescribing Service – for some useful travel tips
Cancer cure research
Cancer is Australia’s biggest killer, with more than 35,000 deaths and 88,000 people diagnosed each year. With worldwide research, a cancer diagnosis may no longer be a death sentence.
Hearing the dreaded ‘C’ word still sends shivers down spines but early diagnosis and a healthy lifestyle, along with the correct treatment, may be the difference between life and death. There have been a few recent discoveries which could help those diagnosed overcome the disease.
Prostate cancer
Canadian scientists have claimed positive results from tests on an electronic devise that can detect indicative changes from blood and urine samples. Researchers have indicated that samples can be analysed within 30 minutes, dramatically reducing crucial waiting time for those tested.
Initial tests have indicated that the device may also be able to differentiate between aggressive and the more benign types of prostate cancer, giving those diagnosed a better chance of receiving the correct treatment.
Find out more about prostate cancer screening.
Breast cancer
While early diagnosis and treatment is still the best cure for breast cancer, research has shown that for those diagnosed late enough for the disease to have spread, finding the original tumour can significantly increase life expectancy.
Research at the Jeroen Bosch Hospital in Den Bosch has found that between 3 and 10 per cent of all women diagnosed have stage IV breast cancer at first diagnosis. This is commonly considered to be too advanced to treat. The study found that patients who had their initial tumour removed lived 17 months longer on average than those who did not. Further, 25 per cent were still alive five years later, compared to 13 per cent of those who did not have the tumour removed.
Find out more about Women’s health issues.
Bowel cancer
Each week, 80 Australians die from bowel cancer. With a simple test, that number could be reduced by over a third. The Cancer Council have a campaign to get the Australian Government to act now by making screening for bowel cancer free to all Australians over 50.
Get behind the campaign by sending an automated email to your local Member of Parliament before 31 October 2009.
Find out more about bowel cancer.
Finding a doctor online
If you’re looking for a new GP or pharmacist, whatever the reason, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA) can assist.
Both the RACGP and the PGA provide online services that may assist you in locating appropriate health professional care.
If you’re looking for GP close to home the RACGP have an online tool that can help you locate your nearest practice. Using the Find a practice tool, you can locate details of your local practice by entering your postcode or suburb and have the results displayed on a Google Map.
To locate your nearest GP, visit the RACGP.
Perhaps you need a pharmacist that can help you manage your asthma, cholesterol problems or to provide mobility equipment. The PGA offer an online Find a pharmacy tool which can help you find a pharmacy offering a range of services, trading hours and even languages spoken.
To locate a suitable pharmacy for your needs, visit the PGA.
Check out our Technology articles for helpful tips.
Want to live to 100?
How long you live can be partly accounted for by your genes but a healthy lifestyle goes a long way to extending your life-expectancy.
Eating healthily, drinking in moderation and not smoking are obvious factors to achieving a longer life but what else can you do to ensure longevity?
· Get moving – 30 minutes of exercise daily, even something as simple as walking, can add three years to your life.
· Get married – having someone to care for and someone to look after you can ensure a healthier outlook on life.
· Shift the fat – losing weight not only helps you look better but you can reduce your risk of death by 20-40 per cent
· Floss daily – inflamed gums can be an indication of heart disease. Keeping gums healthy can lead to a healthier heart
Calculate your life expectancy, visit livingto100.com.
Dump a decade
Looking fabulous at any comes naturally to some but others may have to work a little harder. Looking good is more about a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude than make-up and surgery. Ten simple steps are all it takes to make the most of what you’ve got.
1. Take a look in the mirror
What do you see? Balance what you would like to change with what you like about yourself.
2. Wardrobe clear out
No matter how sentimental some of your clothes are, get rid of items that no longer fit or you haven’t worn for years. Remember, if something’s been out of fashion for 30 years, there’s a good chance it’s never going to make a comeback! Make the most of what’s left by some clever accessorising. A new scarf, jewellery or classic coat can give your remaining items a new lease of life.
3. Top to bottom approach
Ok, so more people look at your face than your feet but a visit to the podiatrist or a simple pedicure can put a spring back in your step.
4. Undercover unmentionables
Just because no one sees your underwear doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be revamped. Elastic does loosen with age so tighten those bra straps or get refitted to make sure your wearing the correct size. And boys, baggy undies do no one any favours!
5.Non-surgical facelift
Spend a little time pamper yourself with a home facial. A good moisturiser works wonders on tired skin for males and females and doesn’t need to cost the earth. Tidy up eyebrows for an instant eye-lift and change the colour of your lipstick for the feel good factor alone.
6.Your smile is your best asset
Confidence in your smile shows in your demeanor. A visit to the dentist or using whitening toothpaste can help get your pearly whites in show-stopping condition.
7. Stand tall
Good posture helps you look younger and less downtrodden by life. Laughter is not only good for the soul but also opens up your face, making you much more approachable and attractive.
8. Mind games
Keeping your mind active will help you remain more alert. No point in looking fabulous if you’re as dull as dishwater!
9. Inside out
You are what you eat. A poor diet will not only dull your skin and cause spot breakouts but will make you feel lethargic and show on your waistline!
10. Finishing touches
If your budget stretches to it, a new hairstyle or pair of glasses will finish of your new look, taking the final years off your look.
Some “must haves” for women
Support hosiery
Basic long-sleeve T Shirts
Classic short-sleeve T Shirts
Three-quarter length coat or jacket
A good hairdresser
A magnifying mirror and tweezers
A well-fitting bra
Some “must haves” for men
Contemporary specs
Well-cut trousers or “chinos”
Jacket not cardie
Groom nose and ears
Leather watch strap
Classic T-Shirts
Plain Polo Shirts
Got your own fashion or age-defying tips? Share them with About Seniors subscribers on the Meeting Place.
Hearing technology with visual appeal
Hearing loss affects some 3.55 million Australians. It can impact on nearly every part of your life, even though you might not realise it. (It’s a bit like having a broken thumb — you don’t appreciate how useful it is until it’s gone!) But these days, there’s really no reason to put up with poor hearing, and once your hearing is restored, you’ll be amazed at how much more interesting and colourful the world around you is.
The latest hearing devices will change your world
Over the past few years, hearing devices have become more and more sophisticated. An excellent example is the award-winning Oticon Dual®, from AudioClinic.
Dual® is so tiny it’s virtually invisible, and so comfortable you hardly know you’re wearing it. It offers high-definition audio with the help of a new technology called ‘Spatial Sound’. Spatial Sound is a little bit like 3D vision — it provides a richer, more natural sound ‘platform’ which helps you identify the source of sounds and conversation.
Another great innovation available with Dual® is a wireless connection accessory called ‘Streamer’. With Streamer, you can connect, and easily switch between, face-to-face conversations, a mobile phone, TV, MP3 player, computer or any other Bluetooth® compatible device.
Dual® wins major design award
As another indication of just how advanced the Dual® is, it recently won the prestigious 2009 Australian International Design Award, in the Medical and Scientific category.
These Awards are an annual event organised by Standards Australia and recognise exceptional product design and innovation. It’s high praise indeed for this remarkable piece of hearing technology.
Early identification of hearing loss helps minimise deterioration
There is now evidence to suggest that the earlier in the hearing loss process a person is treated, the better the long-term outcome.
If you are experiencing any form of hearing loss, make an appointment for a free hearing check at your local AudioClinic. We have more than 200 clinics right around Australia — to find one near you, call 1800 057 220, or visit www.audioclinic.com.au.
It used to be that all you had to worry about when having sex was getting pregnant. For some that may no longer be a risk but a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can be a nasty side effect from a night of passion.
If you’re embarking on a new relationship, or rekindling one that has gone astray, it’s important to ask the right questions of your partner. Never be ashamed or embarrassed about asking whom they have slept with and whether they have been tested. It could save your life. Regardless of how many assurances you are given, practicing safe sex is vital to ensure your own health and wellbeing.
For more information on STIs and how to protect yourself, visit the Department of Health and Ageing
Viagra on PBS
Hailed as the wonder drug for those suffering from erectile dysfunction, Viagra is unattainable for some due to the cost. However, for those suffering service-related disabilities, it may be available on the PBS.
Nocturnal cramps
Leg cramps during the night can disturb a good night’s sleep as About Seniors subscriber, John, has discovered.
Q. John
I was wondering if you can seek information on a health problem I have and I am sure many other elderly people and that is cramps one gets at night time whilst in bed.
A. Nocturnal cramps can happen to anyone, old or young, and can be incredibly annoying, though not usually a sign of anything serious. While worth mentioning to your doctor if the cramps persist, there are natural measures you can take to relieve the symptoms.
Stretching – gentle stretching of the calf muscle before you go to sleep can relieve the tightness that can cause cramp
Increase calcium and magnesium intake - cramps can be a sign of electrolyte imbalance, which may be fixed by increasing calcium and magnesium consumption. Low fat diary products and sardines with bones are good sources of calcium while, nuts, whole grain foods and beans can help boost your magnesium intake.
Muscle pressure – pressing hard on painful muscles for about 10 seconds can relieve pain
Increase potassium – eat more potassium rich foods such as bananas or maybe consider a supplement.
Quinine – quinine is often prescribed for cramps but it can have side effects. A glass of tonic water, which contains quinine may be a safer option.
As with all ailments, consult with your doctor if they are prolonged, become particularly painful or effect your days to day life.
Spec savers
Even with the many deals around, the cost of prescription glasses can be high. About Seniors subscriber, Barbara, is keen to know if there’s any Government help available.
Q. Barbara
Can you please tell me how to apply for the Government supplied glasses and the eligibility requirements?
A. Each state and territory government has their own scheme for the supply of prescription glasses, so it really depends where you live. For information relating to your particular state, click on the links below.
Queensland
Victoria
NSW - VisionCare NSW on (02) 9344 4122
Tasmania
NT
ACT
SA
WA
Flying after DVT
Long distance travel can be daunting after you have suffered a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). However, About Seniors subscriber, Wyn, doesn’t want to let a small matter of DVT stop her.
Q. Wyn
In mid July 2004 I had deep vein thrombosis. I was treated with Warfarin for nine months and since then have had no obvious problems. But, I am now afraid to fly! Last year, for the first time since the episode, I flew to Hobart from Perth, via Adelaide with absolutely no problems. BUT, I would like to do an overseas trip sometime in the next year, which will involve an 11 hour non-stop flight. Could you please let me know what the latest thinking is on flying after having had DVT and what, if any, precautions I can take, apart from the obvious one of regular walking around or at least moving legs while sitting. Any information you can supply which may help me overcome what I am sure is a psychological barrier will be gratefully accepted.
A. What a fantastic idea to travel in 2010. You have plenty of time to “Get fit to travel”. You should consult your doctor before travelling. Especially in regards to taking Warfarin but About Seniors expert physio, Jane Banting, has the following advice.
I suggest you start walking regularly, and include calf stretching and calf raising exercises before and after you walk. Five walks a week, with elevation of your heart rate to a moderate level of exertion is appropriate. Drink plenty of fluids during these exercise periods and don’t rely on feeling thirsty - this means you are already dehydrated.
You have had one DVT in July, 2004 and have had no further problems, even when flying from Perth to Hobart and return last year. This is promising for future travel. The use of compression socks to knee height is good for long distance flights. Again, talk to your doctor about this.
Three key factors to reduce the risk of DVT are reducing immobility, avoiding dehydration and restrictive clothing. My key tips are :
· take an aisle seat, so you can move around the plane when possible
· perform the in-seat exercises advised by the airline
· drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol and caffeine which can increase the risk of dehydration
· wear loose clothing and comfortable socks that are not tight around the calves
· on the plane, adopt a comfortable posture, without crossing legs and reclining when possible
Have a fabulous time getting fit over the next year and preparing yourself for your trip next year.
Swine ‘flu – over 50s a lower risk
With 23 confirmed cases of swine ‘flu in Australia, bizarrely, it appears that the young and healthy are most at risk, with those born before 1957 resisting the disease.
While those with compromised immune systems should always be vigilant when it comes to any strain on influenza, it appears that exposure to the H1N1 strain of the virus pre-1957, may have helped produce antibodies against the current virus.
Antibodies have been detected in the blood of older people by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, USA. But why is 1957 a key year? As with many virus’, H1N1 mutated over the years and in 1957 became the H2N2 virus. Therefore, anyone in contact with the virus post-1957, would have developed antibodies to a different strain than the H1N1 which has now resurfaced.
H1N1 swine flu is hitting young people hardest, with more than 60% of cases are in 5 to 24-year-olds and remarkably, 37% of people hospitalised with swine flu are 19 to 49 years old.
If you suspect you are suffering from swine ‘flu, contact your medical practioner. For up-to-date information, visit the Department of Health and Ageing.
Menopause webcast
Getting through the menopause is one of a woman’s great achievements. The Jean Hailes Foundation has an easy-to-understand webcast that will give you the information you need to get through it without losing your sanity.
Click here for more information.
Reduce your cancer risk
With over 2,800 alcohol related cancers diagnosed each year and 1,400 deaths as a result, adhering to new alcohol guidelines could save your life.
Alcohol increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, bowel, liver and is a significant cause of female breast cancer in women of all ages. Alcohol can also lead to weight gain in postmenopausal women, further increasing the risk of breast cancer.
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), has revised and simplified the alcohol intake guidelines and are based on risk over a lifetime. Keeping to below two standard drinks per day keeps your risk to 1 in 100 of dying as a result of alcohol.
To view the full guidelines, visit the NHMRC.
Free hearing help
Most pensioners are entitled to free hearing aids, which is great news for those struggling to keep up with conversations, or hear what is going on around them. But what if you’re not a pensioner but still struggling with your hearing? All is not lost, there is money to be saved if you know how.
If you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident aged 21 or older, you may be eligible to apply for a hearing services voucher. The first step is meeting one of the following criteria:
· Pensioner Concession Card Holder
· receiving Sickness Allowance from Centrelink
· the holder of a Gold Repatriation Health Card issued for all conditions
· the holder of a White Repatriation health Card issued for conditions that include hearing loss
· a dependant of a person in one of the above categories
· a member of the Australian Defense Force
· undergoing an Australian Government funded vocational rehabilitation service and you are referred by your service provider
So what do you do if you meet the criteria, are eligible and suffering from hearing problems? Audio Clinic offers a comprehensive range of hearing services free of charge to those eligible. This includes a hearing assessment and if a hearing aid is recommended, you will then receive professional advice on what model will best suit your needs.
What are your hearing aid options? If you are found to have a clinical need for a hearing aide, you are entitled, under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program, to obtain a pair free of charge. These are valued at approximately $1600 and servicing is included. This is the basic model which will help you to hear satisfactorily however, you may opt for more features, such as a smaller aid. If this is the case, you will be able to pay the additional cost, over and above the $1600 covered by the Government program.
All hearing aids are GST free and a regular supply of batteries and servicing is available free to those who are eligible.
Don’t meet any of the above criteria but still having hearing problems? All is not lost. If you are a member of a private health fund, then you may be eligible to have some of the cost covered by your provider. For example, MBF offers a refund of $1,000 per hearing aid. And your new hearing aid can also be deducted as a medical expense on your tax return. A tax rebate of 20% of every dollar spent over $1,500 on medical expenses is claimable.
You can get an application form for a hearing services voucher from your doctor or by visiting health.gov.au.
And for those Australians who aren’t eligible under the OHS scheme, some providers also give great discounts and service packages for self-funded retirees.
If you are experiencing hearing problem, ask for a free hearing assessment at your local Audio Clinic.
Cancer fighting super foods
While the obvious factors of smoking, obesity, alcohol and sun exposure are leading causes in increasing the risk of developing cancer, the foods we eat can influence our susceptibility to certain types of cancer.
Some of the foods with the strongest protective anti-cancer effects are:
- carrots
- tomatoes
- citrus fruits
- broccoli
- cabbage
- brussel sprouts
- bok choy
- asian greens,
while limiting the following foods in your diet will help influence your susceptibility to cancer:
- fatty processed red meats
- highly processed foods that are low in fibre
- heavily salted and pickled foods
For more information on how to eat better and reduce your risk of cancer, visit the Better Health Channel.
Testing, testing…
Advances in medical research have produced several tests, some more simple than others, than can be undertaken to give an early indication that something is not quite right health wise.
Early diagnosis is often key to ensure successful treatment of disease such as cancer and containment of diseases such as diabetes and high cholesterol. Simple blood tests that can be prescribed by your medical practitioner, and are often fully covered by Medicare, can help put your mind at ease.
You should consider requesting the following tests on your next visit to your doctor:
Blood pressure – should be checked every two years between the ages of 18 and 50, then annually. If at risk of high blood pressure, checks should be done every six months.
Blood sugar – if you have a higher risk of diabetes, taking into consideration family history and weight (see How do you measure up? for details), you should be tested annually.
Bowel cancer screening – from mid-40s, testing should be carried out annually.
Cholesterol – get this checked every five years and if found to be high, take medical advice as to how regular it should be checked.
Dental – get those nashers checked and cleaned every six months
Eyes – should be checked annually for cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration
Hearing – get tested at the first sign of hearing loss or from age 65
Heart – an ECG should be carried out to test and measure heart rate every three to five years
Skin check – in a country with high UV rates such as Australia, it’s important to keep a check on any skin blemishes for abnormal changes. From your 20s onwards, get your doctor to check any moles annually and seek immediate treatment for itching, bleeding or changes in size and colour of any skin blemishes.
Of course, men and women are biologically different and there are specific tests that each sex needs. Check out tests for men and women.
How do you measure up?
There is a direct correlation between how much fat we store in certain parts of our bodies, and how much at risk we are of chronic diseases but when is just a little extra weight too much?
Certain cancers, type 2 diabetes and heart disease are just some of the chronic diseases people are at risk of when carrying extra weight. Getting fitter means eating less and exercising more and doesn’t need to be difficult. Sometimes people just need a gentle push and others a loud wake-up call to face up to the fact that their lifestyle is dangerous to their health. Knowing your risk factor is vital to understanding what you need to do to limit the risk of disease.
Measure up is an Australian Government better health initiative aimed at getting people to understand their health habits and the risk these pose. Simple steps such as measuring your waistline, increasing your exercise regime and eating more fruit and vegetables can help improve your health. OK, so there is nothing new in this but understanding just what you need to do is incredibly helpful.
This is where the Measure up website comes in handy, with an explanation of why you should measure yourself, how to measure properly and when your measurements become a concern. Did you know that if you have a waistline of over 94cm for men and 88 for women, you have an increased risk of suffering a chronic disease?
To make things even easier, there is a downloadable 12-week plan, to get you more active and eating better.
For more information, visit Measure up.
Hollistic health care
Hollistic health care is being followed by more and more people these days with regular hearing checks part of today’s holistic approach to health.
Audio Clinic Ambassador, Dr Ross Walker, explains the virtues of hollistic health.
You’ve probably noticed ‘holistic’ being used more these days when talking health. It’s derived from the Greek word ‘holism’ and means that a system as a whole determines the condition of the individual parts.
We humans are a collection of tissues, cells, organs and body systems. Take the ears for instance - they are quite amazing. They pick up sound and translate it to your brain but the process is completely mechanical. Our sense of smell, taste and vision all involve chemical reactions, but hearing is based solely on physical movements. Our ears are complex mechanisms that need to be checked regularly by hearing health professionals such as AudioClinic.
In fact, every aspect of your health should be looked after - it’s a body, mind and spirit approach.
With the demands of today’s world, the holistic approach makes sense:
· Healthy eating - nutritious foods like lots of fruits and vegetables. Choose whole grain breads and cereals rather than over-processed products high in sugar and salt.
· Moderate exercise - do what you enjoy, a walk, a bike ride, a hit of tennis, a round of golf. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise three to four times a week and feel the benefit!
· Stimulating hobbies and interests - don’t just sit in front of the TV. Join a community group, or an arts or historical society. Try something you’ve never done before - learn how to play bridge, take a cooking course, join the local library, even playing a board game like Scrabble regularly is a great way to keep your mind active.
· Regular health checks - it’s very important you monitor your health. Don’t put these check-ups off! Keep track of:
blood sugar
blood pressure
cholesterol
eye health
hearing health (hearing tests are often overlooked, but are very important)
Take the holistic approach to your health, it’s the key to your well-being for years to come!
For more information, visit Audio Clinic.
Can you trust online genetic tests
It is important to have as much information as possible about possible health risks but is genetic testing going too far and once you have the results, what do they really mean?
With people’s growing need for knowledge and an understanding of their health risks, a surge in businesses offering online genetic testing has followed. All you need is a computer and a credit card, you are then sent a testing kit and a few weeks later, you’ll have the details of your whole genetic make up. So now what do you do with them?
This is where a little knowledge is dangerous. Undertaking any kind of genetic testing without medical advice or counseling can open up a can of worms unnecessarily. Advances in genetic testing are key to understanding hereditary illness and the effect defective genes can have to one’s health. So how does a sheet of numbers help you understand your health risks?
Quite simply, it can’t, unless you have had several years of medical training. Sure it might tell you you have a higher risk of cancer or heart disease but that is no real indication that you will actually suffer from the disease. And to manage any risk, you will need to consult your doctor who will take all factors into consideration. The other real danger is that for some illnesses the data available is limited and telling someone they have a higher than average risk on contracting a disease that may have no real medical consequence could be construed as unnecessary.
Genetic testing has it’s place in medical science and people have the right to know their medical prognosis but everything needs to be taken in context. Before considering genetic testing, consult your doctor and discuss why you feel you need to know and what you are hoping to achieve. A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing.
For more information on genetic testing, visit Lab Tests Online .
or listen to the arguments for and against on The Health Report
Liked this article? Read similar articles here
Medicare bulk billing
You may be lucky enough to be offered a bulk billing service by your medical practitioner but what exactly does this entail?
Medical practioners have two ways of charging for patient services, they can either issue the patient with a bill, or bulk bill Medicare directly. When issued with a bill, the patient has the responsibility of paying and then claiming from Medicare. This usually results in a deficit for the patient as the medical practitioner may charge more than the Medicare benefit.
The option of bulk billing is usually preferable. Medical practitioners bill Medicare directly, which means the patient doesn’t need to pay the bill, nor are they out of pocket. The patient will be asked to sign a form authorising that their Medicare benefits can be assigned to their treatment by the practitioner. Medical practitioners usually bulk bill children, pensioners, those receiving benefits and those being treated under a Government health scheme, such as the Mental Health Care program.
For more information on bulk billing, ask your medical practitioner or visit Medicare.
Your body’s warning signals
As we get older we accept that a few niggling pains are a fact of life. But which symptoms are due to old age and which are our body’s way of highlighting something more serious?
Given the amount of time you’ve lived in it, you know your body well and can usually tell if there’s something more serious going on than run-of-the-mill aches and pains. There are six important flashing signals that should not be ignored.
1. Stroke - paralysis of the arms or legs, tingling, numbness, dizziness, double vision, slurred speech, weakness, especially on one side of the body. These symptoms should not be ignored. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms call an ambulance straight away.
2. Heart attack - Chest pain or discomfort, pain in the arm, jaw or neck, cold sweats, extreme weakness, nausea, shortness of breath. Call an ambulance immediately if you suffer from one or more of these symptoms.
3. Blood clot - tenderness and pain in the back of your lower leg, chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. If these have arisen after a long journey or when you’ve been immobile for a period of time, you should seek assistance straight away.
4. Kidney stones, bladder or prostate infection – blood in your urine but no pain. If there’s blood in your urine, call you doctor. Just because there’s no pain, doesn’t mean there’s nothing wrong.
5. Asthma – shortness of breath and wheezing that doesn’t ease. An asthma attack that is left untreated can cause serious damage and can lead to death.
6. Depression – feeling low for a prolonged period of time, lethargy, losing the will to get up and do things or feeling suicidal. These feeling can creep-up on you when you least expect it. Depression can be treated and is not something to feel ashamed about.
For more information on what to look out for, visit Your Body’s Red Light Warning Signals.
Back in the Saddle
If you’ve been single for a while you can get set in your ways and the thought of sharing your life with someone new can be daunting. This week we try to take some of the fear out of starting a new relationship and in our handy downloadable PDF, Back in the saddle, Kate Johnston looks at bringing the passion back into your love life. Two can live as cheaply as one, or so they say.
Prevention better than cure
Even if you have lived in your home for many years, getting around as you get older does get more difficult.
Following simple guidelines provided by Aged Care Australia can reduce the likelihood of damaging falls, common accidents due to confusion and may enable you to live in your own home for longer.
If you have problems getting around, find yourself becoming easily confused or experience sight or hearing difficulties, there is help available to make your home more “user friendly”.
Useful links to publications such as COTA’s Home Safety and Security and frequently asked questions, provides a good starting point for families and carers to ensure maximum home safety. For more information, visit http://www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au/
Use it or lose it
You can almost half your risk of dementia by keeping your brain active. Stimulate your brain with fun activities and save yourself from losing your marbles.
In a meta-analysis of 29,000 individuals, Dr Michael Valenzuela discovered that those who throughout their lives had carried out mental activities which were diverse and complex, were 46% less likely to develop dementia. Individuals with a history of high mental activity only had a decrease of 5% in their overall cognitive abilities, whereas people with a history of low mental activity suffered a 20% decrease.
During his research, he also found that it’s never too late to get your brain working. In order to understand the effect of activity of the brain’s centre, the hippocampus, he carried out a training exercise over five weeks on a group of over 65s. He found an increase in creatine, which helps protect brain cells from dementia.
Dr Valenzuela’s study was published in the Public Library of Science’s One journal and he was awarded a prestigious Eureka Prize for Medical Research. To keep your brain active, or to get it in gear, try our daily crossword and sudoku puzzles.
Know what you’re eating
Confused about what the nutritional labels on food are actually saying? When it says ‘low fat’, what exactly does that mean? Food Standards Australia New Zealand has released a new book, Choosing the right stuff, to help you know what you’re eating.
Diet-related disease is a growing problem but even if you are as fit as a fiddle, it is empowering to be able to look at a food label and interpret it correctly. It is easy to see that there is sodium in the product, yet not know how much is too much in a given serve.
The other typical area where people get confused is around the labeling of fat content – nutritional labeling on saturated fat has been mandatory for more than five years, but it is a good idea to make it a part of your normal routine to look at the labels for saturated fat, in particular.
The full title of the new book is…wait for it…Choosing the right stuff – the official shoppers’ guide to food additives and labels, kilojoules and fat content. As well as information on how to read food labels, it lists many useful resources where you can get more information on healthy eating. Published by Murdoch books, it’s reasonably priced at $14.95. Find out more
Tackling elder abuse
Do you know about the Elder Abuse Prevention Association? It’s a non-for-profit, independent organisation offering consumer advocacy, workshops for aged care workers, presentations to raise awareness within the community and much more.
The association also provides counselling for older people, their families and aged care providers, and policy initiation and training packages for residential care facilities and community care agencies. And if your family is in the awful position of needing representation in a disputed matter, they can help.
Though based in Victoria, the association services all states and territories. Even if you’ve heard of them before you might want to note that they’ve moved premises and have new contact details:
Elder Abuse Prevention Association
Suite 3, 49 Wadham Parade, Mount Waverley, VIC
Ph 1300 884 665
To go to their website, click here
Cyber Health Scams
Many people now look to the internet for readily available health information. But the internet also gives the opportunity for fraudulent health products and treatments to be promoted, wasting your money and perhaps even harming your health.
The International Marketing Supervision Network (IMSN), of which the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is a member, offers the following tips to avoid health fraud:
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is;
- Beware of products or treatments that are advertised as a quick and effective cure-all for a wide range of ailments or for an undiagnosed pain;
- Be cautious of testimonials claiming amazing results;
- Watch out for promoters who use phrases such as 'scientific breakthrough', 'miraculous cure', 'exclusive product' and 'secret ingredient'; and
- Before you purchase, consult your pharmacist, doctor or other health professional.
If you believe you have been a victim of a health scam on the internet, report the matter to the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502.
Elder Abuse
- A leaflet available through the New South Wales Senior Information Service succinctly covers types of abuse, why we don't hear more about it, why it happens, where to go for help and related information.
Go there - Elder abuse prevention unit. A Queensland organisation which promotes the rights of older people to live free from abuse.
Go there - Contact the following if you would like to discuss issues related to elder abuse:
- Australian Capital Territory – ACT Disability Aged and Carers Advocacy Service (ADACAS)
Phone (02) 6242 5060 - New South Wales – Seniors Information Service
Phone 13 12 44 - Northern Territory – Phone any Aged Care Assessment Team
- Queensland – Elder Abuse Prevention Unit Helpline
Phone 1300 651 192 - South Australia – Aged Rights Advocacy Service
Phone (08) 8232 5377 - Tasmania – Department of Health and Human Services
Phone (03) 6336 5503 - Victoria – Carers Association Victoria
Freecall 1800 242 636 - Western Australia – Crisis Care Line
Phone (09) 9223 1111
Emergency Cards
MedicAlert. This system provides personal medical identification information by way of:
- Bracelet/necklet
- Wallet card
- Computer data bank
- 24 hour telephone answering service
Medic Alert Australia
Go there
Health Insurance
iSelect is an advisory service helping you select a policy from any participating insurer. iSelect helps you identify a health insurance policy that meets your needs and budget from their participating funds.
Go there
Healthy Eating
- Australian Guide to Healthy Eating: Information about the amounts and kinds of food you need each day to get enough of the nutrients essential for good health and wellbeing.
Go there
- Better Health Channel has an alphabetical list of all the food facts articles, plus health promoting recipes.
Go there
- Dietary Guidelines for Australian Adults: Produced by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Dietary Guidelines for Australian Adults highlight the groups of foods and lifestyle patterns that promote good nutrition and health. The use of the guidelines will encourage healthy lifestyles that will minimise the risk of the development of diet-related diseases.
Go there
- Dietitians Association of Australian (DAA). A nutrition focused organisation with a website providing up-to-date information. The Nutrition A-Z section is comprehensive. Check also the Healthy eating self-assessment to see if dietary changes are indicated.
Go there
- Food and Nutrition from Health Insite covers a range of subjects, from the nutritional benefits of particular foods to food safety and medical conditions affected by diet, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Go there
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (formerly ANZFA) protects the health and safety of the people in Australia and New Zealand by maintaining a safe food supply. Find out about what's in food (e.g. additives, GM food, caffeine, percentage labelling, food irradiation, mercury in fish), food recalls and safety, check ANZFA's media releases and much more.
Go there
- Foodwatch. The site for information on healthy food, nutrition, food labelling, weight reduction and more.
Go there
- Nancy Frawley's Healthy Eating. Linking you to nutrition and fitness info with one of the largest collections of healthy online eating/fitness links.
Go there
- Nutrition Australia. A non-government, non-profit community based organisation that aims to provide scientifically based nutrition information to encourage all Australians to achieve optimal health through food variety and physical activity. Check 'Nutrition in Later Life' among many valuable fact sheets.
Go there
Return Unwanted Medicines
The National Return and Disposal of Unwanted Medicines Ltd, known as the RUM program, is a national not-for-profit company, set up to enable consumers to return unwanted or out-of-date medicines to any pharmacy, at any time. The medicines returned are in no way reused or recycled. So sort out you out-of-date and unwanted medicines and drop them in to your local pharmacy. Find out more about the RUM program:
Go there
Sex Advice
Erectile Dysdunction
- Impotence Australia. A not-for-profit organisation that was set up to decrease the suffering of men with impotence and their partners by providing quality telephone counselling. In addition to telephone counselling, Impotence Australia provides information fact sheets on many sexual issues.
Go there
- Impotence-guide.com. Most men will have to face up to the challenge of impotence at least once in their lifetime...If you have a problem then a visit to this site could help.
Go there
Sex & Ageing. From the Sexual Health InfoCentre, one of the most popular sources of sexual health information on the Internet.
Go there
Sex and the Ageing Process. An article from another Australian site, myDr.
Go there
