Does the age 65 surprise you? It’s the age many Australians officially join the “elderly” club - at least on paper. But we all know many vibrant 65-year-olds who are more likely to be working, hiking trails or socialising hard than slowing down. For example, I met a 65 year old last night at the rugby (Wallabies v British Lions) who was still playing rugby.
From the perspective of healthcare, aged care funding and medical research, turning 65 marks a transition point - and it’s a good time to take stock of how we’re supporting our bodies and minds as we get older.
Whether you're preparing for retirement, helping care for an ageing parent, or simply thinking about the future, healthy ageing isn’t just about luck - it’s about the choices we make each day. And with the Australian Government’s new Support at Home program rolling out 1st Nov 2025, there’s never been a better time to talk about it.
What Happens as We Age?
Ageing is completely natural - but it does bring changes. Some are visible, like greying hair or slower walking speed, and others are more subtle but no less important. Common physiological changes include:
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Loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), especially if we become less active
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Bone density decline, particularly after menopause
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Digestive changes that can impact appetite and nutrient absorption
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Reduced taste and smell, making food seem less appealing
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Cognitive decline, including memory loss or dementia in some cases
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Greater risk of chronic conditions, such as Type 2 Diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease
But none of this means a downward spiral is inevitable. With the right support — including nutrition, movement and social connection — ageing can be healthy, independent, and full of purpose.
Barriers to Healthy Ageing
Not every older person faces the same challenges, but some common barriers include:
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Living alone and not prioritising cooking or eating well
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Mobility issues making shopping or meal prep difficult
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Fixed incomes limiting access to fresh, quality food
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Dental or swallowing issues affecting food choices
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Memory loss impacting the ability to plan or eat meals
Recognising these challenges is the first step to overcoming them — and that’s where community support and accessible services (like meal delivery) come in.
Strategies for Ageing Well
The science is clear: we can influence how we age. The most effective strategies focus on prevention, resilience, and enjoyment.
1. Eat for Strength and Brain Health
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Aim for lean protein with meals to preserve muscle mass - think eggs, beans, tofu, fish or chicken.
Chicken Laksa with Noodles and a wide range of veggies
- Choose whole plant foods — vegetables, legumes, whole grains — for fibre and antioxidants that help reduce cell damage.
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Include calcium-rich dairy or alternatives (like yoghurt or fortified plant milks) to support bone health.
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Follow the Mediterranean diet principles: olive oil, vegetables, legumes, oily fish, nuts, wholegrains and minimal processed food. It’s been linked to better cognitive health and lower rates of chronic disease.
Did you know? Your brain runs on glucose — so cutting carbs completely can actually impact memory and mental clarity. Choose smart carbs like brown rice, sweet potato, or wholegrain pasta.
2. Move to Maintain Independence
You don’t have to run marathons — but aim for:
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Cardio activity like walking, dancing or water aerobics
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Strength exercises to preserve muscle and reduce falls
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Chair-based exercises if mobility is limited
Keeping active helps regulate blood sugar, improves mood, and supports circulation — all essential for healthy ageing.
3. Keep Your Brain Busy
Crosswords, conversation, learning something new - anything that challenges your brain helps maintain cognitive function. Alzheimer’s Australia’s “Brainy App” is a great place to start tracking your brain health.
4. Stay Social and Connected
Isolation can creep in as we age - and it’s strongly linked to poor health outcomes. Whether it’s through a neighbourly chat, a local group or regular contact with family, staying connected is key.
Why Meals Matter (More Than Ever)
We know that good food is medicine - but it also provides routine, comfort, pleasure, and dignity.
At We Feed You, we make it easier to nourish your body - or the body of someone you care for. Our chef-made meals offer a wide range of options including:
- Using mostly cold pressed extra virgin olive oil - Australian of course!
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Packed with a wide range of wholefood ingredients - different herbs, spices, grains and vegetables
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Catering to dietary needs including gluten-free, low FODMAP, and diabetes-friendly
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Free from hidden nasties - all ingredients are clearly listed on the website and also on the packaging.
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Easy to heat in the microwave or oven
- Approx. 45 meals which are a good source of protein
We’ll be proud to be continue supporting many clients through the new Support at Home program, just as we’ve doing under the Home Care Package scheme.
This delicious and popular Beef with Mustard Greens has a wide range of plant based foods and a good serve of protein. It's nutritious and delicious!
What is the Support at Home Program?
From 1 Nov 2025, the federal government is rolling out the Support at Home program, replacing Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care. The new program is designed to make it easier to:
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Get tailored care at home (including meals, cleaning, personal care)
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Choose trusted providers
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Stay independent for longer
If you or your loved one already receives care through HCP, you should continue to be supported as the new system rolls out. If you’re new to aged care support, now’s the time to explore your options.
Final Word: Ageing Is Inevitable, but Suffering Isn’t
Getting older doesn’t mean giving up. It means adapting smartly - with the right food, movement, and support structures. It means recognising that nutrition isn’t a luxury - it’s a meaningful part of everyone's day, brings joy to life, energy to life and should be enjoyable.
And that’s exactly why We Feed You exists.
Whether you’re ageing at home, supporting an older parent, or planning for your future, we’re here to make healthy ageing possible - and delicious.
Want to learn more about getting We Feed You meals under the Support at Home program?
Visit We Feed You Support at Home more information here > or call our team to discuss: 1300 853 239 (leave a message if we don't answer and we will call you back)
