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AFL legend dies at age 43

<p>AFL West Coast premiership winner Adam Hunter has died at the age of 43. </p> <p>The athlete was found unresponsive just after midnight in Bunbury, south of Perth, and could not be revived.</p> <p>Hunter was coach of the South Bunbury reserves team and had attended training on Tuesday night prior to his death, before he returned home complaining of chest pains and an ambulance was called to the house he shares with his mother.</p> <p>WA Police issued a statement on Wednesday, saying, “About 12:20am this morning, 5 February 2025, police and St John Ambulance were called to a residence in Withers upon report of a non-responsive male."</p> <p>“Upon arrival paramedics immediately commenced first aid, however; the man could not be revived. The 43-year-old man was declared deceased at the scene."</p> <p>“The death is being considered non-suspicious, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.”</p> <p>Hunter played 151 games for the Eagles and the defender turned swingman solidified his place in history at the 2006 grand final.</p> <p>He kicked West Coast’s last goal of the game, his celebration becoming an iconic moment in club history as they sealed victory over the Sydney Swans after falling short in the same match-up in the 2005 decider.</p> <p>“We are devastated by the loss of 2006 premiership Eagle Adam Hunter,” West Coast said in a statement on Wednesday. “Our thoughts are with his family, teammates and friends.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: West Coast Eagles </em></p>

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“What is wrong with people?”: Baggage claims photo reignites age-old debate

<p dir="ltr">A single photo of an airport’s baggage claim area has kicked off a heated debate about travel etiquette.</p> <p dir="ltr">A frustrated traveller snapped the image of a crowded luggage carousel at Melbourne Airport and posted it to Reddit, reigniting the age-old debate about one of people’s most annoying habits when going on holiday.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I returned to Melbourne last night on an international full flight, and the lack of self-awareness from some people was astounding," the post read, accompanied by the photo of a crowded baggage claim carousel. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Despite the clear signs instructing passengers to stay behind the yellow line at baggage collection, many ignored them, standing right in front of it," she continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">"As someone who is on the shorter side, I already struggle to see over a 6ft grown man. After taking this photo, two more people stood directly in front of me.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"At that point, I firmly said in a loud voice, 'Stand behind the yellow line; it's there for a reason'. Thankfully, they moved."</p> <p dir="ltr">"Seriously, what is wrong with people? There's plenty of space around – why stand right in front of me? Rude AF!"</p> <p dir="ltr">The post quickly received hundreds of comments, with plenty of people equally baffled by the act and wondering why the selfish act takes over so many people in airports.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Those two are probably the first to stand up and get their carry-on bags out of the overhead compartments as soon as the wheels touch down," one person commented.</p> <p dir="ltr">"You really triggered them with this one. Imagine asking people to be considerate," another said.</p> <p dir="ltr">But others didn't see an issue at all, with one person writing, "I just say 'excuse me' and reach between people to grab my bag. Most people get out of your way."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

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Essendon coach dies aged 59 following cancer battle

<p>Essendon VFL and assistant coach Dale Tapping has passed away aged 59 following a battle with cancer. </p> <p>The football veteran was first diagnosed with myeloma, an aggressive form of blood cancer, two years ago. </p> <p>Despite his health battle, Tapping played a key role leading the Bombers forwards in 2024, and late last year, he was announced as the club's VFL coach for 2025 and 2026. </p> <p>Tapping passed away on Tuesday morning surrounded by his family. </p> <p>“On behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, we are deeply saddened by Dale’s loss,” club president Dave Barham said.</p> <p>“Dale was a man of impeccable character who was universally loved and respected by those who were lucky enough to have crossed paths with him over his 28 years in the football industry.</p> <p>“Our club’s thoughts are with his wife Kellie, children Summer and Mason, and the extended Tapping family at this most challenging of times.</p> <p>“He has left a lasting impact on the Essendon Football Club and across the broader football community, and will be remembered as a selfless individual whose passion and care for people and the game was evident in everything he did.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Essendon Football Club is in mourning after the passing of VFL Senior Coach Dale Tapping on Tuesday morning.</p> <p>A universally loved football person, Tapping bravely fought Myeloma, a form of blood cancer, for over two years.</p> <p>Rest in peace, Tapps ❤️</p> <p>— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/essendonfc/status/1886562363937316975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p>Essendon's AFL coach Brad Scott also paid tribute to his friend and colleague. </p> <p>“Dale was an outstanding coach, but his true legacy lies in the profound impact he had on players and staff personally,” Scott said.</p> <p>“His dedication to their growth — both on and off the field — along with his genuine love for seeing people succeed were qualities admired by all.</p> <p>“It was a privilege to have coached with him, and his legacy at the club will endure through the players and staff he mentored throughout his career.</p> <p>“Dale will be deeply missed by the AFL industry and everyone at the Bombers. Our thoughts are with his wife Kellie, and children Summer and Mason, who have shown incredible strength throughout this difficult time.”</p> <p>Brisbane Lions head coach and former colleague Chris Fagan also paid tribute, by recalling Tapping's impact on his first years at the club. </p> <p>“I met Dale at a Leading Teams leadership seminar in 2016. I immediately admired his enthusiasm and love for coaching and AFL football,” Fagan said.</p> <p>He also recalled how Tapping's positive and resilient attitude helped the Brisbane Lions progress, adding that the VFL coach's “fingerprints are all over” their 2023 premiership. </p> <p>“He was a fantastic football person, a super coach, a great Dad to Summer and Mason and husband to Kel. We will all miss him dearly.”</p> <p>Tapping first went public with his diagnosis in April 2023, sharing how difficult it had been to decide how to tell their kids.</p> <p>“Talking to them, that was ... I’m getting a bit emotional now,” he said at the time.</p> <p>“That’d be the hardest conversation I’ve ever had to have." </p> <p>He is survived by his wife Kellie, and children Summer and Mason. </p> <p><em>Image: X</em></p>

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Why we get less narcissistic with age

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ava-green-1396648">Ava Green</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/city-st-georges-university-of-london-1047">City St George's, University of London</a></em></p> <p>There’s a perception that today’s youth are extremely narcissistic – fame-obsessed, selfish and vain. In fact, studies show this is <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/2167696814522620?journalCode=eaxa">a common view</a> of young people, regardless of the times we live in. But are young people really more narcissistic? New research reveals that, as people age, <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2025-00409-001.html">they do tend to become less narcissistic</a>.</p> <p>Narcissism is a complex, <a href="https://theconversation.com/narcissism-why-its-less-obvious-in-women-than-in-men-but-can-be-just-as-dangerous-231392">multi-dimensional personality trait</a>, which captures features beyond vanity and self-absorption. Emerging <a href="https://doi.org/10%20.1177/09637214211044109">research</a> suggests there are <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jopy.12464">three different features</a> (called “dimensions”) of narcissism: agentic, antagonistic and neurotic.</p> <p>Agentic narcissism involves the need for admiration and feelings of superiority. Antagonistic narcissism is characterised by the exploitation of, and a lack of empathy towards, other people. Finally, neurotic narcissism refers to being sensitive and having difficulties regulating one’s emotions.</p> <p>In order to fully understand how narcissism develops, the new study looked at all the three features. They analysed data from 51 longitudinal studies (meaning studies which follow participants over time), all of which measured how participants’ levels of narcissism changed. The researchers coded whether each study measured one or more of three different dimensions of narcissism.</p> <p>To select the studies, the team used the American Psychiatric Association (APA) PsychInfo database of papers, searching for terms including “narcissism” and “narcissistic”. Each article was reviewed by two coders who were not part of the research team. The coders independently selected the studies based on details including sample size, gender ratio, measurement used, and the country in which the sample was collected.</p> <p>This robust procedure generated a large dataset which comprised of 37,247 participants (52% female) ranging from ages eight to 77 years. The majority of the participants were from western Europe, the US and Canada.</p> <p>Overall, the researchers found that all three dimensions of narcissism declined across the life span. There was a small decline for agentic narcissism and a moderate reduction for antagonistic and neurotic narcissism. The rate of change did not differ based on gender, age or birth cohort.</p> <p>Interestingly, the researchers also found that people’s narcissism relative to that of their peers remained consistent over the life span. In other words, people who were more narcissistic than average as children remained more narcissistic than average as adults.</p> <h2>Changing roles</h2> <p>What, then, are the mechanisms involved in people becoming less narcissistic as they go through life? One possible factor is to do with changing social roles across our lifespan. It is important to remember that narcissism exists along a spectrum, with the lower end being helpful (a healthy balance of self-esteem and confidence) and the higher end being unhelpful and malignant (fluctuating self-esteem, aggression and lack of empathy).</p> <p>It is possible that our <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2008-11667-014">personalities adapt</a> when we make the transition into adulthood – which involves important individual and social responsibilities such as commitment to a relationship, leadership roles, or becoming a parent. After all, it is hard to successfully look after children or managing other people if you are too focused on yourself.</p> <p>Even in old age, narcissism continues to decline. That may be because people tend to follow paths which encourages altruistic values as opposed to egoistic values, such as commitment to their family and grandchildren. By this age, most people have probably also learned the hard way the punishing consequences of being hostile to others.</p> <p>This view is supported by <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2008.00543.x">other research</a> suggesting that people develop more mature personality features in general over time, including becoming more emotionally stable, conscientious (hardworking and dutiful) and agreeable (kind and altruistic). As narcissism is considered to be the opposite of maturity, we expect, in theory, that features of narcissism (particularly the antagonistic and neurotic dimensions) to decrease across the life span.</p> <p>However, narcissism can increase over time in some people. Research shows that some aspects of narcissism, such as exploitation of others and lack of empathy, can increase when people assume positions of power. This is <a href="https://iaap-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1464-0597.2006.00226.x">particularly relevant</a> at work and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0191886920304360">in relationships</a>.</p> <p>And let’s not forget that some people are simply just more narcissistic than others. Just because you’re 70 doesn’t mean you can’t be self-centered, it just means you might be less narcissistic than you once were.</p> <p>This may be partly down to genetics, but it may also be the case that certain environments exacerbate existing features of narcissism. For instance, certain parenting styles – including being neglectful, overprotective, and/or providing excessive praise by putting the child on a pedestal – have <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0191886920304359">all been linked</a> to children developing narcissism in adulthood, suggesting a good balance is key.</p> <p>It is important to understand more fully how narcissism changes across life. That is not least because we know that it can have a detrimental effects on the individual and the people around them.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/234437/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ava-green-1396648"><em>Ava Green</em></a><em>, Lecturer in Forensic Psychology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/city-st-georges-university-of-london-1047">City St George's, University of London</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-we-get-less-narcissistic-with-age-234437">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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Sixties pop icon passes away aged 78

<p>British pop icon Marianne Faithfull has died at the age of 78, with the BBC confirming the news by citing a statement from her spokesperson. </p> <p>“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of the singer, songwriter and actress Marianne Faithfull,” the statement read. </p> <p>“Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family. She will be dearly missed.”</p> <p>Faithfull was best known for her debut single <em>As Tears Go By</em> which reached the UK top 10 in 1964. </p> <p>She was also famously the girlfriend of Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger in the 60s, becoming a muse for the rock star, inspiring songs such as <em>Wild Horses </em>and <em>You Can't Always Get What You Want</em>.</p> <p>Tributes have poured in for the singer, with Jagger describing her as "a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress," saying he was "so saddened" by the loss. </p> <p>His Rolling Stones bandmate Keith Richards shared that he was "so sad" following her death and that he "will miss her". </p> <p>Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood posted an old picture of him, Faithfull and Richards in a recording studio with the caption "Farewell dear Marianne". </p> <p>He then shared a more recent photo of the pair with the caption: "Marianne will be dearly missed. Bless her xx".</p> <p>Throughout her life, the singer had suffered multiple health problems, including bulimia, breast cancer and emphysema caused by decades of smoking.</p> <p>After a period of drug addiction and homelessness in the early 1970s, Faithfull resurrected her career with the critically acclaimed album Broken English in 1979. She also wrote three autobiographies and had a film acting career. </p> <p>Her most recent comeback was in 2020, and despite falling into a coma and being hospitalised for three weeks after catching Covid, she recovered. </p> <p>In March 2022, the singer moved to Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors and other professional performers in London. </p> <p>Faithfull is survived by her son, Nicholas Dunbar, who she shares with ex-husband and artist John Dunbar. </p> <p><em>Image: Bill Francis/Kobal/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

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"Treasured friend": Veteran ABC journalist dies aged 85

<p>Julie Copeland has passed away aged 85. </p> <p>Copeland first started working with 3AW in Melbourne before moving onto broadcast with the ABC in the 1970s and 80s, working on programs <em>The Coming Out Show</em> and radio program<em> First Edition</em>.</p> <p>Tributes have poured in for the veteran ABC journalist who passed away in January. </p> <p>She has been remembered as a “a respected colleague, treasured friend, mentor and teacher” in the ABC’s coverage by fellow journalist Daniel Browning.</p> <p>Copeland, who hosted <em>Arts National, Arts Talk </em>and <em>Sunday Morning Arts with Julie Copeland, </em>has also been remembered for her expertise, as a "master practitioner of the craft". </p> <p>She later went on to host <em>The Europeans, </em>a weekly politics and culture program covering topics like Italian Politics, the East German dissident writers and contemporary Greek philosophy.</p> <p>Former ABC presenter Jon Faine told the <em>Sydney Morning Herald</em> that Copeland was “remarkable in so very many ways and taught us a lot about broadcasting”.</p> <p>“She was so generous, always sharing her experience and informally mentoring without being bossy, a rare skill.” </p> <p>Social media users have also paid tribute to the presenter, with one writing: “Very sad to hear this.”</p> <p>“She was an impressive broadcaster and person with a powerful intellect. I’m sad to hear of her passing,” another wrote. </p> <p>Copeland is survived by her husband John Slavin and sister Cherryl Barassi.</p> <p><em>Image: ABC</em></p>

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Aussie TV and theatre legend found dead at age 67

<p>Australian TV and theatre legend Nicholas Eadie has died at the age of 67. </p> <p>Eadie, who was known for his work on multiple shows, including <em>Cop Shop</em> and <em>Underbelly</em>, died in Sydney on Wednesday, with his friend and fellow actor Will Conyers confirming the sad news in a social media post.</p> <p>“Vale, Nicholas Eadie, 1958 – 2025,” he wrote.</p> <p>“I send my deepest sympathy to all those that were touched by this very special artist and human being.”</p> <p>According to the <em>Daily Mail</em>, Eadie's body was found at his home, although no cause of death has been given.</p> <p>Many of Eadie’s industry colleagues have taken to social media to pay tribute to him following the news of his passing.</p> <p>Actor Rhys Muldoon, who worked with Eadie a “number of times” wrote that he was “shocked” at the news, describing him as “a great actor” and “one of life’s best scallywags”.</p> <p>Toby Schmitz, who appeared in <em>Underbelly</em> alongside Eadie, also paid tribute to him on X.</p> <p>“Bon voyage Nicholas Eadie. An actor thrumming with savvy truth, dangerous wit; a thrilling artist,” he posted.</p> <p>Theatre manager Les Solomon spoke of his devastation at the loss of the “magnificent” Eadie, describing him as “one of Australia’s finest actors”.</p> <p>Eadie’s career began shortly after his graduation from the prestigious National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) in Sydney in 1980. He landed the role of Constable Sam Phillips on Channel Seven’s <em>Cop Shop</em>, and stayed on the series for two years.</p> <p>Across the following decades, he appeared in many well-known Australian film and television productions, including <em>A Country Practice</em>, <em>Return to Snowy River</em>, <em>Halifax FP</em> and <em>Vietnam</em>, which he starred in alongside Nicole Kidman. </p> <p>Eadie was also a successful theatre actor, starring in <em>A Midsummer Nights Dream</em> and <em>The Taming of the Shrew</em>, among many others.</p> <p><em>Image credits: IMBD / news.com.au</em></p>

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Beloved Australian soap star dies at age 85

<p>Beloved Australian soap star Leila Hayes has died at the age of 85. </p> <p>The popular actress died peacefully at a hospital in Sydney’s Northern Beaches after facing long-term health challenges, according to the post on a Facebook page announcing her death. </p> <p>Best known for her role on <em>Sons and Daughters</em>, Hayes also went on to dabble in singing, hosting a radio show and writing throughout her stellar career. </p> <p>Hayes appeared in popular drama series including <em>Homicide</em>, <em>Power Without Glory,</em> <em>The Sullivans</em>, <em>Prisoner</em>, and <em>Cop Shop</em>.</p> <p>She is best remembered for her of role of Beryl Palmer in the soap opera <em>Sons and Daughters</em>, playing the part in close to 1,000 episodes over the course of the show’s five-year run beginning in 1982.</p> <p>Hayes also proved herself as a radio presenter, hosting <em>New Day Australia</em> <em>with Leila Hayes</em> on Radio 2UE, a successful midnight-to-dawn program.</p> <p>The accomplished performer established the Leila Hayes Drama Studio in Melbourne in 1979 and branched out to Sydney in 1987, where she nurtured up-and-coming talent.</p> <p>The Drama Studio confirmed the news of Leila's passing, with her daughter Melissa sharing her thanks for all the kind messages of support. </p> <p>"Thank you for your condolences, shared memories and support. It means the world to me and my family at this difficult time," Leila's daughter wrote.</p> <p>"Yesterday’s message was not easy to share, and done only out of the great respect she had for all those who have followed, worked with or studied with her over the years. I am sure she would feel incredibly humbled by the overwhelmingly loving support. Thank you."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News</em></p>

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Legendary Hollywood director dies at age 78

<p>Hollywood director David Lynch, who was known for directing iconic films such as <em>Mulholland Drive</em> and <em>Twin Peaks</em>, has passed away at the age of 78. </p> <p>Lynch’s family confirmed his passing on social media early on Friday morning with an emotional statement that reads, “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch.” </p> <p>“We would appreciate some privacy at this time."</p> <p>“There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the doughnut and not on the hole’,” Lynch’s family added.</p> <p>“It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”</p> <p>Lynch's family did not confirm his cause of death. </p> <p>In 2020, the acclaimed writer and director was diagnosed with emphysema, a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. </p> <p>After being a heavy smoker all his life, Lynch revealed in November 2024 that he needed supplemental oxygen to go on a walk.</p> <p>“What you sow is what you reap,” Lynch told <em>People</em> magazine. “In the back of every smoker’s mind is the fact that it’s healthy, so you’re literally playing with fire. It can bite you. I took a chance, and I got bit.”</p> <p>Lynch's filmmaking career began in the 1960s, although his first feature film was <em>Eraserhead</em> in 1977. </p> <p>His next film was 1980’s <em>The Elephant Man</em>, which was nominated for eight Oscars — including Best Director for Lynch.</p> <p>He followed up <em>The Elephant Man</em> with 1984’s <em>Dune</em>, 1986’s <em>Blue Velvet</em>, 1990’s <em>Wild At Heart</em> and 2001’s <em>Mulholland Drive</em>.</p> <p>Lynch also created the hit TV series <em>Twin Peaks</em> in 1990, as well as the 1992 movie prequel and 2017 reboot season. </p> <p>During his stellar career, Lynch was nominated for four Oscars and nine Emmy Awards. He won the César Award for Best Foreign Film twice and the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival once.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Zuma/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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There’s a link between walking speed and ageing well. Here’s how you can improve your pace

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/andres-rafales-perucha-1528635"><em>Andrés Ráfales Perucha</em></a><em>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universidad-san-jorge-5704">Universidad San Jorge</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/pablo-gargallo-aguaron-1528652">Pablo Gargallo Aguarón</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universidad-san-jorge-5704">Universidad San Jorge</a></em></p> <p>For decades, we have known that the way you walk, in particular your walking speed, is tied to your health. One study has even proposed that it be considered <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24812254/">a vital sign</a>, much like heart rate and blood pressure.</p> <p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26861693/">Various studies</a> have found a link between low walking speed in adults over 65 and a greater risk of cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, falls (which could lead to fractures), hospitalisation, and even an increased overall mortality rate.</p> <p>A higher walking speed, on the other hand, is associated with increased functional capacity, meaning a better ability to move around and do activities independently. It is also linked to <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanhl/article/PIIS2666-7568(24)00092-8/fulltext">greater longevity</a>.</p> <p>But how fast should you walk? <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568163714000646?dgcid=api_sd_search-api-endpoint">Studies</a> recommend a few simple tests, which principally consist of timing how long it takes a person to walk between two points at their usual pace.</p> <p>This <a href="https://www.physio-pedia.com/4_Metre_Walk_Test">test</a> is done over a distance of four metres. A speed of under 0.8 metres per second is associated with a greater risk of frailty.</p> <h2>How to improve walking speed</h2> <p>While there is slight disagreement as to the best exercise for increasing walking speed, the pattern that seems most effective is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34409961/">multicomponent training</a>, which includes several different forms of exercise:</p> <ol> <li> <p><strong>Balance exercises</strong> can help improve stability and prevent falls. Examples include walking in a straight line putting one foot in front of the other, or standing on one leg, alternating every 10-15 seconds.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Flexibility exercises</strong> can improve mobility and reduce risk of injury. The benefits of movement in alleviating back pain are <a href="https://theconversation.com/back-pain-why-exercise-can-provide-relief-and-how-to-do-it-safely-162888">well documented</a>.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Muscular exercises</strong> help build strength in the legs, buttocks and other body areas. These can be as straightforward as standing up and sitting down in a chair.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Aerobic exercise</strong> improves stamina, and can include walking itself, or <a href="https://theconversation.com/seven-reasons-nordic-walking-is-better-for-you-than-the-normal-kind-187391">Nordic walking</a> (with hiking poles).</p> </li> </ol> <h2>How much aerobic exercise do we need?</h2> <p>The main <a href="https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240014886">guides</a> on physical activity recommend that, provided they are physically and medically able, each adult should do at least 150 minutes of moderately intense aeoribic exercise per week.</p> <p>“Moderate” means you are not too out of breath to hold a conversation, but enough to notice an increased heart and breathing rate. There are few reasons not to do this kind of exercise, and it is beneficial for people with chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular issues, metabolic conditions, or even cancer.</p> <h2>Muscle strength: How, and how much?</h2> <p>Strengthening exercises have traditionally been recommended 2 to 3 times a week, with at least one set per exercise session of the main muscle groups: legs, buttocks, pectorals, back and arms.</p> <p>However, more recent studies suggest that doing less intense but more frequent strengthening exercises may be an effective way to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34822137/">maintain muscle mass and strength</a>. This would mean doing them almost every day, including even small exercise “snacks” throughout the day.</p> <h2>Use it or lose it</h2> <p>If we don’t train them, muscle mass and strength decrease over time. This not only affects our mobility, but also increases the risk of health problems and even death. A little daily exercise can make a big difference. We therefore recommend that you try to maintain your physical condition as much as possible, both to improve your immediate health and prevent future problems.</p> <p>If you do not know where to start, the best option is always to consult a professional. If you have difficulties or limitations in exercising, a physiotherapist can help you to build a specialised exercise plan, or can adapt one to your needs.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/245880/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/andres-rafales-perucha-1528635">Andrés Ráfales Perucha</a>, Fisioterapeuta y Personal Docente e Investigador de la Universidad San Jorge. Miembro del grupo de investigación UNLOC., <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universidad-san-jorge-5704">Universidad San Jorge</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/pablo-gargallo-aguaron-1528652">Pablo Gargallo Aguarón</a>, Personal Docente e Investigador en Fisioterapia, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universidad-san-jorge-5704">Universidad San Jorge</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/theres-a-link-between-walking-speed-and-ageing-well-heres-how-you-can-improve-your-pace-245880">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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"Utterly devastated": Iconic Irish singer dies at age 65

<p>Iconic Irish singer Linda Nolan has died at the age of 65. </p> <p>The singer who, along with her sisters Coleen, Maureen, Bernie, Denise, and Anne, belonged to the Irish family group The Nolans, passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer. </p> <p>Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and after years struggling with the illness, was told in 2011 that her cancer was in remission. </p> <p>In 2017, the cancer returned as secondary breast cancer, which continued to spread until it reached her brain in 2023. </p> <p>Linda's sister Coleen shared the news of her passing, describing her sister as a "beacon of love, kindness, and strength" in a post on Instagram. </p> <p>She wrote, "I am utterly devastated by the passing of my sister, Linda. Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humour, and laughter were infectious, and her presence could light up any room."</p> <p>"Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her.</p> <p>"Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched, and while we will miss her more than words can express, we take solace in the love and warmth she shared with all of us. Rest in peace, Linda." </p> <p>Coleen concluded, "You will forever be in our hearts."</p> <p>Linda was part of an Irish family girl group that became prominent in the late 1970s and early 1980s.</p> <p>The family relocated to England in 1962 where they performed under the name The Singing Nolans before becoming The Nolan Sisters in 1974 and later just The Nolans in 1980.</p> <p> </p> <p>They gained fame with their hit songs <em>I'm in the Mood for Dancing</em>, <em>Gotta Pull Myself Together</em>, and <em>Don't Make Waves</em>. </p> <p>Linda was not the only Nolan to face a breast cancer diagnosis, as older sister Anne, 74, and younger sister Bernie, who died 2013 aged 52, also suffered the disease. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Steve Meddle/SplashNews.com/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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Legendary Australian TV presenter dies at age 79

<p>Australian TV presenter and journalist Simon Townsend has died at the age of 79. </p> <p>Townsend died on Tuesday after a battle with an aggressive form of cancer, with his family confirming the news of his passing in a statement. </p> <p>The statement read, “In his final days, Simon was surrounded by his family and a mix of journalists, writers, actors, political activists and Italians."</p> <p>“The conversation to the last was loud, passionate and full of laughs.”</p> <p>Townsend was best known for creating and hosting children’s entertainment TV show <em>Wonder World</em> on Network 10, which ran between 1979 and 1987 and won five Logie Awards.</p> <p>“Simon often found himself in a stoush with Australian children’s television regulators, fighting to maintain his show’s boundary-pushing ethos and preserve his children’s TV rating,” his family’s statement continued.</p> <p>“The edict to all involved in making the show was that they never talk down to children.”</p> <p>Townsend was also known for a stint in Long Bay jail that sparked protests across Sydney, after he became a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War. </p> <p>Townsend's passing prompted a wave of tributes from Australian media personalities, with Amanda Keller being the first to share her experience of working with Townsend as she revealed her first job was on <em>Wonder World</em>.</p> <p>“I was a researcher there, and was lucky enough to work alongside some of the most talented people of my generation,” Keller wrote.</p> <p>“Many of my closest friends today are from those days. I’ll forever be grateful to the show, and to the groundbreaking force that was Simon Townsend. My condolences to all who loved him.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Network 10</em></p>

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Beloved Aussie author dies at age 74

<p>Beloved Australian author John Marsden has died at the age of 74. </p> <p>The best-selling writer published more than 40 books throughout his distinguished career, including the acclaimed <em>Tomorrow</em> series, which chronicled a fictional invasion and occupation of Australia.</p> <p>The young adult series has been described as “the best series for Australian teens of all time”, selling millions of copies and sparking a successful movie and TV series.</p> <p>Businessman Simon Holmes Court led the tributes to Mr Marsden in a touching post on X (formerly Twitter).</p> <p>“He was one of the standout teachers through my schooling — in many ways similar to the character of John Keating in <em>Dead Poets Society</em>,” Mr Holmes a Court wrote.</p> <p>“His 1st book So Much to Tell You was based on my year group — many identifiable characters. A gift to our year! Complex man, but I’m so glad to have crossed paths.”</p> <p>Marsden won many major awards for children's and adult fiction, and in 2006 received the Lloyd O'Neil Award for contributions to Australian publishing.</p> <p>Following the news of his death, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Marsden "wanted young Australians to read more and his writing made that happen".</p> <p>"Vivid, funny, quintessentially Australian, he wrote with a real love for our land and a true sense of our people's character," Mr Albanese wrote on social media.</p> <p>"John's work will live long in our national memory."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Midwife turns comedian at the grand old age of 62!

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">At an age when many are settling into retirement, Sarah Stewart decided to rewrite the script of her life – literally and figuratively. After decades as a midwife, wife and mother, the 62-year-old has gone from delivering babies to delivering punchlines by taking to the stage as a stand-up comedian, proving that it’s never too late to pursue a dream. </span></p> <p>With a sharp wit and an abundance of life experience, she’s been blowing audiences away with her hilarious and heartfelt reflections on family, ageing and the absurdities of modern life. </p> <p>But her journey to comedy hasn’t been without its challenges. Juggling her blossoming career with personal trials – including her husband’s battle with cancer – Sarah has had to navigate the delicate balance between ambition and devotion. </p> <p>Through it all, she’s maintained a fierce determination to follow her passion and inspire others. </p> <p>We sat down with Sarah to discuss the triumphs and setbacks of chasing a dream later in life, and her upcoming plans to take her one-woman show, <em>Midwife Crisis</em>, to new heights:</p> <p>“When I hit 60 a couple of years ago, I had a sudden thought: ‘Gosh! Death is just around the corner!’ </p> <p>“Okay, that’s a bit dramatic, but as you get older, you start to reflect on all the things you have always wanted to do but never achieved and realise that now is the time to do it before it is too late. </p> <p>“In my case, I had always wanted to become an actress but with being a wife, mother and an on-call midwife, over the years I had lost touch with my artistic side. I know it sounds like a horrible cliché but when I turned 60 I realised now was the time for me to reconnect with my creative soul, follow my dreams and put me first in my life for a change. </p> <p>“In 2020 I thought I would explore the possibility of becoming a comedian. I completed a couple of comedy courses and took part in a few open mics in Canberra. I discovered I have an ability to make people laugh, especially when talking about the highs and lows of being a wife for 40 years, wrangling grown-up kids who refuse to leave home, dishing the goss on being a midwife, and reflecting on the ageing process and how I’m preparing for my funeral. </p> <p>“Only 20 percent of women are comedians, and very few are over the age of 60. Thus, I have found a performance niche and an audience of the over 60s, especially women, with whom my material really resonates. I regularly have people say what a positive role model I am ‘at my age’! My unspoken response is I’d rather be doing comedy than spending all my time baby-sitting snotty grandchildren! </p> <p>“Over the last couple of years, I’d been building to debut my solo show ‘Midwife Crisis’ at the Australian Festival of Arts in Townsville in October 2024. But in May 2024, my husband Mark was diagnosed with stage 4 oesophageal cancer. </p> <p>“He went through a course of intensive chemotherapy and was scheduled for surgery in the middle of September. I didn’t know what to do; cancel my show straight away, or hang on while we waited to see the outcome of Mark’s surgery? </p> <p>“Obviously, my priority was to support my husband but at the same time I was gutted that I might miss this opportunity to achieve a goal that I had worked so hard for. </p> <p>“At the age of 62 these openings do not arise in the same way as they do for comedians in their 30s. To make matters ‘worse’, the two shows quickly sold out, so it looked like I had an instant success on my hands. </p> <p>“Mark had extensive but successful surgery on the 18th of September, and with the assistance of our son and Mark’s fabulous friends, I was able to go to Townsville and do my shows knowing Mark was being looked after at home. Our beautiful daughter who lives in Townsville did an amazing job of supporting me and resisting the temptation of rolling her eyes at how crazy her mother is. </p> <p>“Today, Mark has finished his last course of post-surgery chemotherapy and at the moment he is cancer-free. We don’t know what the future holds for us. That being said, another one of my favourite clichés is ‘onwards and upwards’. And so I am taking ‘Midwife Crisis’ to the Adelaide Fringe Festival in February 2024 and I am hoping I will be able to tick off another bucket list item, which is performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2026. </p> <p>“That’s as long as I don’t suddenly get snotty grandchildren to look after!!”</p> <p>Sarah is performing her <em>Midwife Crisis</em> show at the Adelaide Fringe Festival from Friday 21 – Sunday 23 February 2025, 2pm and 6pm. For more info and to book tickets, check out <a href="https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/midwife-crisis-af2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/midwife-crisis-af2025</a></p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

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Queensland's first TV star dies aged 90

<p>Queensland's first television star, Hugh Cornish, has died at a retirement village in Hamilton, Brisbane aged 90. </p> <p>A major figure in television, the iconic presenter made history as the first person to ever greet Channel 9 audiences in Queensland when television went live on August 16, 1959.</p> <p>"I said something like, 'Hello Brisbane, welcome to television' and really, that was it," Cornish recalled in a 1990s interview. </p> <p>His son Tim, confirmed the news of his passing on social media. </p> <p>"Last night we lost one of the remaining burning stars. He was the greatest gentleman you could ever hope to meet," he shared.</p> <p>Cornish began his media career as a radio presenter at 4IP in Ipswich in 1934. </p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Following his first TV appearance, Cornish eventually became the general manager of Channel 9 Queensland, and was the first person to run the same shows every night instead of once a week. </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">In the 1960s he hosted the variety show </span><em>Brisbane Tonight </em>before he went on to present the talent show <em>Stairway to the Stars </em>in the 1970s.</p> <p>He later served as an executive at Nine and the Seven Network.</p> <p>The TV star was remembered by his loved ones today after news of his death. </p> <p>"Every time I think of Hugh Cornish, I think, I know we had the best days in the television industry because they were pioneering days," former television director Garry Gibson said.</p> <p>"I just remember him as a kind loveable person who would help anybody.</p> <p>"This man was interested in television and he wanted to make entertainment and we all chased that."</p> <p>Managing director of Nine Queensland Kylie Blucher said his contributions to the media landscape were second to none. </p> <p>"His face and voice became a trusted presence in countless homes," Blucher said in a statement.</p> <p>"For decades, he brought warmth, professionalism, and dedication to Channel Nine's screen."</p> <p>Veteran newsman Brett DeBritz added that many in this industry "owed their careers" to Cornish. </p> <p>"Everybody who grew up in the sixties and seventies knew his face. He was the guy who brought local current affairs to Channel Nine, and he was also an entertainer.</p> <p>"A lot of people owe their careers to him."</p> <p>"He probably made a bigger impact on getting talent known and up and running in Brisbane than anybody else I know, ever," producer-director and friend John Stainton said.</p> <p><em>Images: Nine</em></p> <p> </p>

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Dynasty actor dies at age 77

<p>Legendary actor Mark Withers has died at the age of 77. </p> <p>Withers’ daughter Jessie confirmed the news of his passing in a statement to <em><a href="https://variety.com/2024/legit/news/mark-withers-dead-dynasty-1236241755/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Variety</a></em>, saying her father died on November 22nd of pancreatic cancer.</p> <p>“He confronted his illness with the same strength and dignity he brought to his craft, creating a legacy of warmth, humour, and dedication, along with his remarkable ability to make every role unforgettable,” Jessie added in a statement.</p> <p>“Mark’s enduring talent and commitment to the industry will be fondly remembered by colleagues, friends, and fans alike.”</p> <p>Withers was best known for his role in <em>Dynasty</em>, playing Ted Dinard in the first season of the show.</p> <p>The actor also starred in several shows during the 1970s and 1980s included episodes of <em>Wonder Woman</em>, <em>The Greatest American Hero</em>, <em>Trapper John</em>, <em>M.D.</em>, <em>Magnum, P.I., The Dukes of Hazzard</em>, and <em>Hill Street Blues</em>.</p> <p>Withers had an eight-episode run as Coach Locke on <em>Days of Our Lives</em> between 1986 and 1987. Later in his career, Withers guest-starred in <em>Matlock</em>, <em>Frasier</em>, <em>The King of Queens</em>, <em>Criminal Minds</em>, and <em>True Blood.</em></p> <p>In one of his final roles, Withers played coroner Gary in a first-season episode of the hit Netflix show <em>Stranger Things</em>.</p> <p>Withers is survived by wife Haiyan Liu Withers and daughter Jessie Withers. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Netflix</em></p>

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Australia's first supermodel dies at age 87

<p>Australia's first supermodel Maggie Tabberer has passed away at the age of 87. </p> <p>The two-time Gold Logie winner and Australian television icon died on Friday morning, her daughter confirmed in an emotional Instagram post.</p> <p>“This morning we lost our beautiful mother and Nanna,” Maggie’s daughter, author and stylist Amanda Tabberer wrote.</p> <p>“She was an icon in every sense of the word and we will miss her dearly … along with the rest of Australia. Rest in peace Nanna. We love you to bits forever.”</p> <p>Kicking off decades of work in the modelling and television industry, Ms Tabberer was one of Australia’s best-known entertainment personalities after being named Australia’s Model of the Year in 1960.</p> <p>Throughout her career, Tabberer wrote a fashion column for <em>The Daily Mirror</em>, was the subject of two Archibald prize winning artworks, hosted her own chat show, launched her own clothing label, and was the fashion editor of <em>The Australian Women’s Weekly</em>.</p> <p>In 1998, Ms Tabberer was awarded the Order of Australia for her contributions to the fashion industry and support for various charities.</p> <p>Journalist Andrew Hornery led the tributes for Maggie, as he took to his Instagram account with a touching tribute to Ms Tabberer, calling her a “legend, icon (and) champion”.</p> <p>“There are not enough descriptors to truly encapsulate what she represented over a seven decade career,” Mr Hornery wrote. “We crossed paths many times and it was always a pleasure."</p> <p>“She enjoyed a little tittle tattle and had a wonderful sense of humour - self deprecating but always positive. What a life. Vale lovely lady.”</p> <p>TV host and journalist Leila McKinnon wrote, "Beautiful Maggie, what a wonderful woman, vale to such a generous spirit, we loved her. Sending our love to you ❤️."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram / Australian Women’s Weekly / news.com.au</em></p>

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Planning for old age? Here’s what the aged care changes mean for you

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anam-bilgrami-1179543">Anam Bilgrami</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/macquarie-university-1174">Macquarie University</a></em></p> <p>Last week, Parliament passed sweeping reforms to Australia’s aged care system. These “<a href="https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-anika-wells-mp/media/once-in-a-generation-aged-care-reforms">once-in-a-generation</a>” changes, set to begin next year on July 1, aim to improve how care is provided to older Australians at home, in their communities and in nursing homes.</p> <p>The new Aged Care Act focuses on <a href="https://insideageing.com.au/new-aged-care-act-passes-parliament-ushering-in-historic-reforms/">improving quality and safety, protecting the rights</a> of older people and ensuring <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/news-and-updates/big-changes-aged-care-sector">the financial sustainability</a> of aged care providers.</p> <p>A key change is the introduction of a new payment system, requiring wealthier people to contribute more for non-clinical services.</p> <p>If you – or a loved one – are planning for aged care, here’s what the changes could mean for you.</p> <h2>What to expect from the home care overhaul</h2> <p>Over the past decade, there’s been a noticeable shift towards “ageing at home”. The number of Australians using home care has <a href="https://www.gen-agedcaredata.gov.au/getmedia/2fbaacd8-1fbf-4ef5-ab1c-72dfc4c727bf/People-using-aged-care-fact-sheet-2023.pdf?ext=.pdf">more than quadrupled</a>, surpassing those in nursing homes.</p> <p>To meet growing demand, the government is adding <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-anika-wells-mp/media/press-conference-parliament-house-25-november?language=en">107,000 home care places</a> over the next two years, with a goal to reduce wait times to just three months.</p> <p>Starting July 1 2025, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/support-at-home/about">Support at Home</a> will replace the <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/help-at-home/home-care-packages">Home Care Packages</a> program. The table below shows some of the key differences between these two programs.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=546&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=546&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=546&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=686&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=686&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/636472/original/file-20241205-19-phkljj.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=686&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /></a><figcaption><span class="attribution"><span class="source">Department of Health 2024</span></span></figcaption></figure> <p>Home Care Packages are currently delivered under <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/help-at-home/home-care-packages">four annual government subsidy levels</a>, covering care and provider management costs. Under Support at Home, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/support-at-home/features">the number of home care budget levels will double to eight</a>, with the highest level increasing to A$78,000.</p> <p>This aims to provide more tailored support and accommodate those needing higher levels of care.</p> <p>Under the new system, recipients will receive quarterly budgets aligned to their funding level and work with their chosen provider to allocate funds across <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-11/support-at-home-service-list.pdf">three broad service categories</a>:</p> <ul> <li> <p>clinical care, such as nursing or physiotherapy</p> </li> <li> <p>independence support, including personal care, transport and social support</p> </li> <li> <p>everyday living assistance, such as cleaning, gardening and meal delivery.</p> </li> </ul> <p>Clinical care services will be fully government-funded, as these are crucial to supporting health and keeping people out of hospitals.</p> <p>But recipients will contribute to the costs of independence and everyday living services under a new payment model, reflecting the government’s stance that these are services people have traditionally funded themselves over their lifetimes.</p> <p>This will replace the basic daily fee and income-tested care fee that some people currently pay. Contributions will vary by income and assets (based on the <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/who-can-get-age-pension?context=22526">age pension means test</a>) and by service type.</p> <p>Support at Home also includes additional funding for specific needs:</p> <ul> <li> <p>older Australians with less than three months to live will receive priority access to $25,000 in funding over 12 weeks</p> </li> <li> <p>up to $15,000 will be available for assistive technologies and home modifications, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/support-at-home-fact-sheet.pdf">eliminating the need</a> to reserve home care budgets for these.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>What if I or my loved one is already receiving a Home Care Package?</h2> <p>If you were receiving a package, on the <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/hcp/about/how-it-works">waiting list</a>, or assessed as eligible for one on September 12 2024, the government’s “<a href="https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-anika-wells-mp/media/once-in-a-generation-aged-care-reforms#:%7E:text=in%20aged%20care-,A%20no%20worse%20off%20principle%20will%20provide%20certainty%20to%20people,greater%20contribution%20to%20their%20care.&amp;text=When%20Home%20Care%20participants%20transition,and%20retain%20any%20unspent%20funds.">no worse off</a>” principle guarantees you won’t pay more under the new system.</p> <p>Current recipients will have their Support at Home budget aligned with their existing package, and any unspent funds will roll over.</p> <h2>How nursing home fees will change</h2> <p>Australia’s nursing home sector is struggling financially, with <a href="https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/executive/sectors-annual-financial-report-lands/">67% of providers</a> operating at a loss. To ensure sustainability and support upgrades to facilities, the government is introducing major funding changes.</p> <h2>What stays the same?</h2> <p>The Basic Daily Fee, that everyone in nursing homes pays, set at 85% of the basic age pension (currently <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/schedule-of-fees-and-charges-for-residential-and-home-care.pdf">$63.57 a day</a> or $23,200 annually), will not change.</p> <h2>What’s changing?</h2> <p>The government currently pays a Hotelling Supplement of $12.55 per day per resident to cover everyday living services like cleaning, catering and laundry ($4,581 annually).</p> <p>From July 1 2025, this supplement will become means-tested. Residents with annual incomes above $95,400 or assets exceeding $238,000 (or some combination of these) will <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/response-to-the-aged-care-taskforce-residential-care-contributions.pdf">contribute partially or fully</a> to this cost.</p> <p>Currently, residents with sufficient means also pay a means-tested care fee <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/aged-care-home-costs-and-fees">between $0–$403.24</a> per day. This will be replaced by a “<a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/response-to-the-aged-care-taskforce-residential-care-contributions.pdf">non-clinical care contribution</a>”, capped at $101.16 daily and payable for the first four years of care. Only those with assets above $502,981 or incomes above $131,279 (or some combination of these) will pay this contribution.</p> <p>Importantly, no one will pay more than $130,000 in combined contributions for Support at Home and non-clinical care in nursing homes over their lifetime.</p> <h2>Changes to accommodation payments</h2> <p>The way nursing home accommodation costs are paid is also changing from July 1 2025:</p> <ul> <li> <p>residents <a href="https://theconversation.com/lump-sum-daily-payments-or-a-combination-what-to-consider-when-paying-for-nursing-home-accommodation-207405">who pay</a> their room price via a refundable lump sum will have <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/response-to-the-aged-care-taskforce-accommodation-reform.pdf">2% of their payment retained annually</a> by the provider, up to a maximum of 10% over five years. For example, a $400,000 lump sum payment would result in $360,000 being refunded if a person stays five years or more, with the provider keeping $40,000</p> </li> <li> <p><a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/response-to-the-aged-care-taskforce-accommodation-reform.pdf">daily accommodation payments</a> (a rent-style interest charge) will no longer remain fixed for the duration of a person’s nursing home stay. Instead, these payments will be indexed twice annually to the Consumer Price Index</p> </li> <li> <p>providers will be able to set room prices up to $750,000 without government approval, an increase from the current $550,000 limit.</p> </li> </ul> <p>People with lower means (those who are fully subsidised by the government for their accommodation costs) will not be affected by these changes.</p> <h2>What if I own my home?</h2> <p>The treatment of the family home in means testing for nursing home costs will <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/response-to-the-aged-care-taskforce-residential-care-contributions.pdf">remain unchanged</a>.</p> <p>Its value is only assessed if no “protected person” (such as a spouse) lives in it, and even then, it’s capped at $206,039 (as at September 20 2024).</p> <h2>What happens to current nursing home residents?</h2> <p>The new rules for contributions and accommodation will apply only to those entering nursing homes from July 1 2025.</p> <p>Existing residents will maintain their current arrangements and be <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-anika-wells-mp/media/once-in-a-generation-aged-care-reforms#:%7E:text=in%20aged%20care-,A%20no%20worse%20off%20principle%20will%20provide%20certainty%20to%20people,greater%20contribution%20to%20their%20care.&amp;text=When%20Home%20Care%20participants%20transition,and%20retain%20any%20unspent%20funds.">no worse off</a>.</p> <h2>Feeling overwhelmed?</h2> <p>These reforms aim to improve care delivery, fairness and sustainability, with the government emphasising that many older Australians – particularly those with <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-anika-wells-mp/media/once-in-a-generation-aged-care-reforms#:%7E:text=in%20aged%20care-,A%20no%20worse%20off%20principle%20will%20provide%20certainty%20to%20people,greater%20contribution%20to%20their%20care.&amp;text=When%20Home%20Care%20participants%20transition,and%20retain%20any%20unspent%20funds.">lower incomes and assets</a> – will not pay more.</p> <p>The government has provided case studies to illustrate how <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/case-studies-support-at-home_0.pdf">home care</a> and <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/case-studies-residential-care_0.pdf">nursing home</a> costs will differ under the new system for people at various income and asset levels.</p> <p>Still, planning for aged care can be daunting. For more <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/financial-support-and-advice">tailored advice and support</a>, consider reaching out to financial advisors, <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/aged-care-specialist-officer-my-aged-care-face-to-face-services?context=55715">services</a>, or online tools to help you navigate the changes and make informed decisions.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/244816/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anam-bilgrami-1179543"><em>Anam Bilgrami</em></a><em>, Senior Research Fellow, Macquarie University Centre for the Health Economy, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/macquarie-university-1174">Macquarie University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/planning-for-old-age-heres-what-the-aged-care-changes-mean-for-you-244816">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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