Episode Description
When we think about prescribing, it’s often in relation to medication. However, the magic of social prescribing is unfolding, and it’s providing connection and purpose for older Australians. This week we again welcome Kathryn Ewen from Dovida and introduce Carly Thomson, a pharmacist involved in social prescribing.
During this episode, Coral, Kathryn and Carly explore how social prescribing is transforming lives beyond the consulting room. Their conversation dives into the benefits of face-to-face connection. It’s a heart warming and informative episode that reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful prescription isn’t medication. It comes with a conversation, a listening ear, and a feeling of belonging.
In this episode:
- What is social prescribing, and how does it benefit older people?
- It’s all about helping people live well and not just treating them when they’re unwell
- The value of personal interaction for older people
- Pharmacists know their clients well and can recognise when social prescribing is appropriate
- Older people are receptive to suggestions for community connection
- Lifestyle and community-based outcomes are just as important as medication
- Loneliness is common among older adults, even when they live in residential aged care facilities
- Being available to talk to people breaks down barriers
- The evolving role of pharmacists in community wellbeing
Related episodes:
- Episode 53 - Pharmacy addressing loneliness and social isolation
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More about Your Aged Care Compass podcast:
Do you support an older loved one at home and you're ready to give up because it’s just too hard? Your Aged Care Compass is for you.
We're Coral and Michelle, the sisters behind our business, See Me Aged Care Navigators.
Coral is a registered nurse with over 30 years’ experience in both health and aged care. A former assessor with the aged care assessment team, an advocate and author, there’s not much Coral doesn’t know about Australia’s aged care system.
Michelle is a former pharmacist with over 30 years in the public health and private sectors of pharmacy. Michelle is the client care manager for our business.
Our story started as one of supporting our parents to remain in their own home, to be as independent as possible and remain connected to their community. When we eventually needed extra support, we achieved this because we know Australia’s aged care system so well. We knew what programs could assist us and our parents.
Your Aged Care Compass podcast brings together not only our personal experience in supporting our parents but also our vast professional experience in supporting other families to keep their loved ones at home.
We'll help you makes sense of Australia’s aged care system and bring you topics related to ageing as well. Legal, financial, health, forward planning and more.
Your Aged Care Compass will guide you clearly and compassionately to the right support at the right time for your ageing parents and loved ones.
Like what you hear? Please leave us a rating and review. We’d love you to share this podcast with any friends or family who have older loved ones.
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