It’s the little things that mean a lot to Cassandra Lester. Like seeing a client able to step off the curb with confidence, rise easily from a low couch or go for longer walks.
The Exercise Physiologist Program Lead who is based at the Northcote AgeWell Centre is passionate about helping older people be as strong, fit and independent as they can be. This is a significant and growing task considering her clients range from 65 to 95 years old, with a range of challenges including living with chronic pain, lung and heart conditions, arthritis, neurological problems and recovering from strokes – as well as day to day ailments people experience throughout life that might prevent everyday activities.
“I find joy in helping people achieve their goals,” explains Cassandra. “Some are small, like being able to get around the house more easily, others are larger, like being able to go on hikes when they are on holiday. All make them more independent.”
She finds dealing with real-life issues in working with older people more rewarding than working with elite athletes. “Older people really appreciate the difference that rehab can make to their day to day lives,” she explains. “It’s life-altering rather than performance-driven.”
It also leads to a spin-off effect with regards to wellbeing levels. “When people are fitter and more mobile they are able to get out and about more easily, which in turn leads to greater social connection.”
One of her clients was a 101 year old lady who lives at home and came in for balance training. “She epitomised not giving up,” says Cassandra.
Cassandra was raised and educated in Melbourne, doing a Degree in Human Movement and a post graduate diploma in Clinical Exercise Physiology.
She started out in Allied Health for an aged care provider before working in a private clinic, in community health and finally in her current role which she took up in 2020 three weeks before a COVID-19 lockdown. She goes on maternity leave shortly but plans on returning to work afterwards.
“I’m part of a very supportive team,” Cassandra states. “We are all encouraged to be the best that we can be, but we are also encouraged to have a good work-life balance. This brings out the best in all of us.”
Find out more about a career with Uniting AgeWellIn honour of Aged Care Employee Day we invite you to get to know our team a little better. Read their individual experiences to discover what drove them to build their career in aged care and learn what fulfils them most each day at work.
Uniting AgeWell staff bring diverse experiences through varied and interesting journeys into aged care. They work in our residences, in people’s homes, and remotely, creating a tightly woven and trusted network of professional care and support. They share a passion for making a difference in people’s lives.
Please read some of their stories below and acknowledge the contribution of all our staff by saying #ThanksforCaring.