As we age, maintaining our health and independence becomes a priority for many. But aging doesn’t have to mean slowing down. With the right care, education, and exercise, it’s possible to not only manage health conditions, but thrive through all stages of life. At SportsCare, we are passionate about providing the right health and fitness solutions for everyone, no matter their age.
GLA:D: A holistic approach to managing Osteoarthritis
One of the most common challenges for older Australians is managing the pain and limitations that come with conditions like osteoarthritis. Fortunately, GLA:D (Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark) is here to help. Developed in Denmark, GLA:D is an evidence-based education and exercise program designed for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis.
At SportsCare, we personalise the program to best meet your needs. Our physios will assess your function and set achievable goals to help you get the most benefit. By combining strength-building exercises with joint protection tips, GLA:D helps improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life through targeted exercises that strengthen muscles around affected joints.
Best of all, HCF offers the GLA:D program with full reimbursement for eligible members under their Chronic Disease Management Program, with no out-of-pocket costs. Speak to the SportsCare team today to see if you fit the criteria.
Falls prevention
Falls become more common as we age, but they are not a natural part of the aging process and can be largely preventable. While various factors, including physical health, environment, and medication, all contribute to fall risks, identifying and addressing these can help reduce the chances of falling. Regular balance and strength exercises, maintaining a safe home environment, and managing medical conditions are key steps in fall prevention. Proper nutrition, staying hydrated, and regularly checking vision and hearing also play important roles in maintaining stability. Taking proactive steps can help maintain mobility, reduce fall risks, as well as improve overall quality of life and keep you more independent for longer.
Strengthening bones for a healthy future
Osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become brittle and more likely to fracture, is common in older adults, particularly women. However, with the right approach, osteoporosis can be managed effectively. At SportsCare, we can help you strengthen your bones through tailored weight-bearing exercises designed to combat Osteoporosis. Strength training is also an extremely valuable prevention method, as the more muscle mass built around bones helps provide extra support and reduces the risk of fractures.
Managing pain and improving joint function
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting older Australians. It causes pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility, making daily activities challenging. At SportsCare, we are here to help people with osteoarthritis manage their symptoms and improve their joint function through a range of treatments. Our approach includes exercise programs like GLA:D, which are designed to improve joint stability, reduce pain, and increase mobility. We also offer manual therapy to improve joint movement and improve stiffness.
The importance of keeping active at any age
Staying active is essential for maintaining good health at any age. Regular physical activity helps prevent a wide range of health conditions, including things like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, while also improving mental health. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition, or simply want to maintain your overall well-being, exercise is a key part of staying healthy as you age. In addition to its physical benefits, staying active can help reduce pain and stiffness, improve mobility, and boost your mood. Even light physical activity like walking can have a positive impact on your health.
At SportsCare, we believe in supporting all ages and stages of life with tailored services and expert guidance. By providing a range of physical therapy and personalised exercise programs, we strive to make you the best version of yourself. Reach out to one of our five SportsCare Canberra clinics for the advice that’s right for you.