Conversations with G & G

A True Partner in Care: Finding a Consultant Who Navigates Aged Care For You Feat. Michelle

Feeling overwhelmed by the new Support at Home changes? You aren't alone. Today, Giselle and Giovanni are joined by Michelle, a Client Care Consultant at Dovida Geelong with 25 years of experience in the Geelong region. We dive into the emotional side of inviting someone into your home, the practicalities of fees and caps, and why "fully managed" care might be the best gift you give your family.
In this episode, the Conversations with G&G team breaks down: 
Managed vs. Self-Managed care: The importance of local support, and how to ensure your loved one stays connected to their community.
Deciphering the "Support at Home" Program: Understanding the new reforms, including the 10% cap on care management fees.
Local Impact: The benefit of working with providers who have deep roots in your community. 
Listen now to gain the confidence, clarity, and support needed to navigate the complexities of aged care. 
This episode of Conversations with G&G is sponsored by Dovida Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast. Dovida is a trusted local provider of in-home aged care, supporting adults across Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast to live safely, independently and confidently at home. To learn more, head to www.dovida.com.au/local-office/geelong or call the local Geelong office on 03 5201 9090. 

Your Voice, Your Care: How Clients Shape the Future of In-Home Aged Care Feat. Margaret

This episode of Conversations with G&G is sponsored by Dovida Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast. Dovida is a trusted local provider of in-home aged care, supporting adults across Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast to live safely, independently and confidently at home. To learn more, head to www.dovida.com.au/local-office/geelong or call the local Geelong office on 03 5201 9090.  
In this vital episode, Giselle and Giovanni chat with Margaret, a home care client who is actively involved in her provider's Consumer Advisory Body (CAB). Margaret shares her dual perspective on how providers can and should be listening to client feedback to drive real, practical improvements in care. She discusses why she chose her provider, the importance of a transparent and supportive "family feel," and offers critical advice for anyone starting their aged care journey: register early with My Aged Care!
Listen for essential, practical tips and an honest insight into how clients are partnering with providers to ensure safer, person-centred care. 
Find Resources: Visit our website for full episode summaries and resources:
🌐 conversationswithgandg.com
#ConversationswithGandG #SupportAtHome #CaregiverSupport #AgedCareAustralia #CarerWellbeing #DietitianAdvice #HealthyAgeing #FallsPrevention #Geelong

Nourishing Independence: How Nutrition Shapes Healthy Ageing Feat. Phillipa Spense

🎙️ In this episode, you will learn:
Why nutrition has been an "under the radar" issue in aged care and the impact of the new aged care standards on food and nutrition
The top challenge for older Australians: not eating enough, and why they actually need higher amounts of nutrients like protein and calcium
The difference between a regulated Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and an unregulated nutritionist, and why an APD is essential for clinical care
The crucial signs of malnutrition for carers to look for: loose clothes, ill-fitting jewellery, and chewing or swallowing difficulties
How dietetic services are covered under the Home Care Support Plan and typically require no core contribution from participants (falling under clinical services)
Why the APD assessment is holistic, involving a review of the fridge, medical history, medications, and linking clients to other allied health support (Physio, OT)
The recommended protein target for older people and why dairy products are a 'superfood' for protein and calcium
👥 Who is this episode for? Family carers trying to make the best choices for their parent or partner Older Australians navigating significant life changes who want to maintain their independence and dignity at home Referrer networks (GPs and allied health professionals) needing resources to guide families toward safe and necessary services Employed carers and aged care workers seeking practical knowledge and better ways to support client wellbeing.
🌐 Learn more and trusted resources My Aged Care — practical guidance on services, assessments and finding providers: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/ Carer Gateway — support, counselling and respite options for family carers: https://www.carergateway.gov.au
ℹ️ Who is Conversations with G&G? Conversations with G&G is dedicated to supporting the people who support others. We are a podcast and content hub focused on in-home aged care, carer wellbeing, allied health, and disability support. We share real stories, practical education, and evidence-informed insights from the caregiving community, especially in the Geelong/Victoria regional context. Our mission is to inform, support, and empower those navigating the aged care system.
📲 Follow our other platforms! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conversationswithgandg/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conversationswithgg/ 

Navigating Aged Care with a Loved One During The Holidays With Conversations with G&G

The holiday season is the perfect time to check in on the older Australians in your life. But how do you spot the signs they might need extra help—and how do you start that difficult conversation without stripping away their independence?
In this essential episode, Danni, Giselle, and Giovanni share a proactive guide for family carers:
Spotting the Signs: Learn the subtle indicators of decline, from changes in the fridge and mobility, to issues with medication safety (like knowing when to get a Webster Pak from your pharmacist).
The Empowerment Conversation: We tackle the tough talks—like the fear of driving or accepting domestic help. Discover how to reframe support as the key strategy for achieving their goal of staying safe in their own home.
Next Steps: Get practical guidance on where to start, including how to register with My Aged Care and the crucial questions to ask when choosing a reliable, quality local provider.
Listen now to gain the confidence, clarity, and support needed to navigate the complexities of aged care this festive season.

Understanding and Conquering Stress & Anxiety Feat. Danni Synot

None of us are immune to stress, but when does it become something more—something that halts your life?
In this compassionate and informed episode, special co-host, qualified Counselor Danni Synot, dives into the critical difference between positive stress (eustress) and destructive, prolonged stress that can lead to debilitating anxiety.
Danni shares her personal, hard-won journey through severe anxiety and panic attacks—including agoraphobia and burnout—to show that recovery and resilience are absolutely possible.

Finding Meaning and Purpose in Caregiving Feat. Danni Synot

In this episode of Conversations with G & G, we sit down with co-host Danni Synot, founder of Brave Enough—a service dedicated to counselling and mentorship.
 
Danni explores the powerful themes of meaning and purpose in the role of a caregiver. She shares heartfelt insights into how caregivers can reconnect with the deeper ""why"" behind what they do, and how compassion—often seen as just an emotional response—can actually be a source of strength, identity, and transformation.
 
Whether you're a professional carer, supporting a loved one, or walking alongside someone through life’s challenges, this conversation will help you reflect, refocus, and reignite your purpose.

Australian In-Home Aged Care: A Clients Perspective Feat. Client Sharon

From adjusting to care at home to finding the right supports that make daily life easier, Sharon gives an honest look at what it really means to age with dignity, independence, and choice.

Understanding the New Support at Home Program: Aged Care Reforms in Focus

Learn how the Support at Home reforms will reshape aged care in Australia with new funding, eight care levels, and simplified assessments.

Pain Management From a Biopsychosocial Feat Meghan Dean

In our latest podcast episode, we sat down with Meghan, an experienced pain physiotherapist who works closely with people living with arthritis and persistent pain. What unfolded was a deep, insightful conversation that challenged traditional approaches to pain and offered practical tools for those looking to live well despite it.

Strength to Support: Strength Training for Caregivers Feat Tim Leposa

This month, we’re excited to welcome back Tim Leposa for the final episode of his series. As an experienced personal fitness trainer, Tim will be sharing valuable insights on the importance of strength training for caregivers. He’ll also demonstrate exercises designed to help caregivers build strength, feel empowered, and stay well in their bodies.