Epilepsy Awareness - Wear Purple Day

Why is March 26th considered Purple Day? What is the purpose of it? Read on to find out…

It is recognised as Epilepsy Awareness Day, the idea was conceived in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, a nine-year old Canadian who was struggling with her own Epilepsy.

She wanted to raise awareness for the condition in the wider community and increase the understanding of the impact of seizures, whilst also letting other people who have Epilepsy know that they are not alone.

It has turned into a global success with more than 85 countries participating in Purple Day activities such as wearing purple, hosting events, and fundraising for Epilepsy research and awareness.

Why did Cassidy choose purple? The internationally recognised flower for Epilepsy is Lavender!

 

Dale, one of our Exercise Physiologists gave us some insight into what Epilepsy is and how it can be managed.

  • Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain categorised by persistent seizures. It is one of the most common chronic brain conditions with more than 250,000 Australians and approximately 65 million people worldwide currently living with the condition. It is estimated that 1 in 100 people have Epilepsy.
  • All people with Epilepsy have seizures, however not all people with seizures have Epilepsy. Men are slightly more likely to have the disease compared to women.
  • A person can develop Epilepsy at any age, though it is reported more often in children and older adults. For seniors there is a higher incidence due to ageing of the brain and strokes.
  • More than half of those with the condition are able to control their seizures with seizure medication.
  • Physical exercise is a known non-pharmacological treatment to help improve circulation of calcium (which is involved in nerve conduction) and helps regulate brain functions. Exercising regularly helps to improve symptoms and lessens occurrences of seizures.
  • Some individuals find that massage therapy, yoga or meditation can be helpful to prevent or delay seizures.

 

To learn more about Epilepsy and how it can affect seniors visit Epilepsy Action Australia.

Sleep, What is it good for? Absolutely everything!

At BallyCara we appreciate the need for sleep, especially since we know that getting a good night’s sleep promotes our health and wellbeing.

Economic Empowerment for Women - A Reflection & Future Aspirations

In recognition of International Women’s Day last week, BallyCara’s Corporate Services Director, Trudi Ashcroft, took the time to reflect on her own experiences and opportunities within the workforce. Below she shares some ideas on how we, as a society, can support the economic empowerment for women.

Celebrating Women: Honouring Contributions Across Generations

As we commemorate International Women’s Day in 2024, we are compelled to reflect on the remarkable journey of women throughout history, particularly within our cherished BallyCara Community.

Random Acts of Kindness at BallyCara

Throughout the month of February we have been spreading kindness around BallyCara with feel good quotes and random coffee vouchers. This Saturday is Random Acts of Kindness Day with the theme being "Make Kindness the Norm"… which is exactly what BallyCara’s Carers’ Auxiliary stands for!

Safer Internet Day - How to protect you and your family online

The 6th of February marks the 21st edition of Safer Internet Day where millions of people from over 180 countries come "Together for a better internet".

Celebrating International Day of Education at BallyCara with Residents

Today is International Day of Education. This year’s theme is ‘Learning for Lasting Peace’. We interviewed Residents Russell and Ruth Briggs on their history of education and peace as they are both trailblazers in this field.

Avoiding Isolation Post-Holiday Season

The end of one year and the start of a new one can be an exciting time! It can also be an overwhelming period for many; it may be the first time you are celebrating with or without loved ones, it may be a time of travel or a time for rest, your house may have been full and then suddenly feels very empty.

A Treasure Chest of Memories

The delightful Margaret is a HomeCare Client in our Brisbane North region who has had such a full and interesting life! She has had an association with BallyCara for quite some time as her late husband was part of the Hibernian Friendly Society 40 years ago when BallyCara was established.

Student Placement at BallyCara - An OT perspective

At the end of July BallyCara welcomed two Occupational Therapy (OT) students from the University of Sunshine Coast (UniSC) for their 10 week placement.
This was a valuable learning experience for existing BallyCara Staff and the OT students alike.

Men's Shed at BallyCara

What can we say about BallyCara’s Men’s Shed?

It is a vibrant community of youthful seniors who decided to make the most of their time here at BallyCara by coming together to create some wonderful pieces for donation to Residential Care and the Carer’s Auxiliary for purchase in their shop.

Bowel Cancer Awareness – is it time for a check-up?

Our aim is to encourage seniors to live a happy and healthy and life with our wellness-focused approach to care. As June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, we thought it was fitting to shine a light on the importance of regular check-ups and tests.

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For more information or to book a visit please contact us.

Acknowledgment of Country

BallyCara acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which our residences are located and we pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging. We extend that respect to the Traditional Owners across this country where we live, work and play.

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