Author name: Chris Stirton

A signed form is not a substitute for a genuine, documented process — and treating it as one leaves both residents and providers exposed.

A senior physiotherapist’s perspective for residential aged care management.

An accurately identified need only produces a clinical benefit if the response actually meets it.

A behavioural label documents that an event occurred — not why. That distinction is where most falls programs stall.

What proportion of your falls burden is attributable to unmet need, rather than physical frailty alone?

Australia’s healthcare workforce shortage has triggered a predictable response by the Australian Government: accelerated skilled migration. What’s less predictable—and far less discussed—is who is being left behind in the process.

The financial landscape of residential aged care in Australia has become increasingly complex. Providers are facing a convergence of pressures—rising labour costs, tighter funding models, increasing compliance requirements, and growing expectations from residents and families.

Since the introduction of the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) on 1 November 2025, there has been a rapid and unprecedented surge in appeals and review requests challenging client classifications. As of 30 March 2026, 834 internal review requests have been lodged relating to IAT decisions, according to evidence presented at a Senate inquiry.

In Part 1 – The Monthly Physio Myth, we challenged a pattern that has quietly become embedded in home care. The question now is “What Do We Replace It With”.

Equally important is understanding how exercise is implemented and sustained in everyday life, as prescribing exercise is only half the solution, the client needs to have the belief that they are relevant to improving the aspects of their life they are struggling with…