As an occupational therapist with over 40 years of expertise in helping people age well, I am passionate about empowering people to take control of their ageing journey.
A lot of people think you can’t control how you age, but it’s proven that when it comes to ageing – it’s in your hands.
There are many myths and stereotypes when it comes to getting older, but the truth is up to 25 per cent of how we age is due to our genetics, which means the remaining 75 per cent can be attributed to the lifestyle choices we make each day.
LiveUp is a healthy ageing initiative funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care that has been designed to help you take control of the way you age through healthy ageing approaches.
What is healthy ageing?
Healthy ageing is a term coined by the World Health Organization and is an emerging concept aimed at helping people maintain their independence and social connection as they age.
It encompasses several health and lifestyle factors that are within our control, such as physical exercise, social connection, and using assistive products.
On LiveUp, people in Australia, their families, and those who care for them can find free impartial information and resources focused on these three areas of healthy ageing.
Assistive products, like a sock aid or jar opener, are designed to make those everyday tasks you might struggle with easier, so you can keep doing the things you love.
LiveUp is packed with low-cost assistive product suggestions from well-known retailers and reliable online stores such as Bunnings. People can also complete the quiz featured on the website for personalised product suggestions.
It’s common knowledge that exercise is good for you, but even modest amounts of low intensity exercise, like walking, yoga, and gardening, activate your brain, build bone mass, maintain muscle, and boost your mood.
Studies show that social and mental activity is also crucial for health and longevity. Engaging in intellectual stimulation, like learning new things, having healthy relationships, and participating in a supportive community, are all just as important as diet and exercise.
LiveUp features regularly updated healthy ageing articles written by allied health professionals, designed to provide information and downloadable resources for various age-related topics such as preventing falls, and getting a better night’s sleep.
LiveUp also features a database of more than 4,500 activities across Australia. Once people enter their postcode on LiveUp, they will find locally relevant activities and networks based in their local area or online, focused on keeping them physically active and socially connected.
It’s never too early or too late to make lifestyle changes. There are lots of things we can do now to help us continue to live our life to the fullest as we age. If you’re ready to throw out tired stereotypes and take control of your healthy ageing journey, visit liveup.org.au
If you prefer to speak to someone over the phone, LiveUp’s provides a free and confidential Navigation service to help you understand your healthy ageing options. The LiveUp Navigation team can be contacted on 1800 951 971 or [email protected].
Contact LiveUp
- T: 1800 951 971
- E: [email protected]
- W: liveup.org.au
