Healthy Ageing in Alice Springs: Tips to Stay Active, Independent and Well

When people think of the Northern Territory, they often picture warm weather and sunshine. But locals know that winter in Alice Springs can be surprisingly cold. With overnight temperatures regularly dropping below zero, frosty mornings, and crisp desert air, winter brings its own set of health challenges. It is also one of the busiest and most enjoyable times of year in Central Australia, with community events, camping trips, sporting activities, and visitors arriving from around the country. Whether you’re spending your weekends camping, exploring the region, or simply navigating the colder mornings, taking a few simple steps can help you stay healthy this winter. Winter Illnesses Are More Common Colds, influenza, and other respiratory illnesses tend to circulate more during winter. While many illnesses can be managed at home with rest and fluids, it is important to be aware of symptoms that may require medical attention, particularly for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions. Simple preventative measures can help reduce the spread of illness, including: Washing your hands regularly Covering coughs and sneezes Staying home when unwell where possible Keeping shared surfaces clean Maintaining good general health habits Cold Weather Can Affect Asthma and Respiratory Conditions The cold, dry air common during Alice Springs winters can trigger symptoms for people living with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Respiratory infections, smoke from campfires, and dust can also contribute to flare-ups. If you have asthma, winter is a good time to: Review your asthma action plan Ensure your medications are up to date Carry your reliever medication when needed Monitor any changes in symptoms If your asthma becomes more difficult to manage, speak with your GP . Don’t Forget About Sun Protection Even during winter, Central Australia experiences high UV levels. Many people spend more time outdoors during the cooler months, attending community events, camping, walking, or enjoying recreational activities. Remember to: Slip on protective clothing Slop on sunscreen Slap on a hat Seek shade where possible Slide on sunglasses Sun protection remains important throughout the year, not just during summer. Stay Active During the Cooler Months Winter provides ideal conditions for outdoor activity in Alice Springs. Regular movement can help support physical health, mental wellbeing, sleep quality, and overall fitness. You do not need to undertake intense exercise to gain health benefits. Walking, cycling, gardening, community sports, yoga, and other recreational activities can all contribute to a healthy lifestyle. The key is finding activities you enjoy and can maintain consistently. Winter Events and Outdoor Safety Winter is one of the busiest seasons in Central Australia, with events such as the Finke Desert Race, community festivals, sporting competitions, and outdoor gatherings attracting locals and visitors alike. When spending time outdoors: Carry plenty of water Pack warm clothing for early mornings and evenings Be mindful around campfires and cooking equipment Drive carefully, especially on long trips Ensure any regular medications are packed and easily accessible A little preparation can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Looking After Your Health This Winter Winter in Alice Springs offers some of the best weather of the year to enjoy everything Central Australia has to offer. By staying active, protecting yourself from illness, dressing appropriately for the conditions, and maintaining healthy habits, you can support your wellbeing throughout the season. If you have questions about your health, ongoing medical concerns, or would like to discuss preventive healthcare, have a chat with your GP. Stay warm, stay active, and enjoy the Central Australian winter.

Mental health is an important part of overall health. It influences how we think, feel, and manage everyday life. Like physical health, it can change over time and is shaped by factors such as stress, life events, environment and social connection. Mental health in regional communities Living in a regional area like Alice Springs offers strong community connections and a unique lifestyle. However, people in regional and remote areas can also face challenges such as distance, access to services, and periods of isolation.  Building awareness and understanding around mental health can help reduce stigma and make it easier for people to seek support when they need it. When to consider seeking support It’s normal to experience ups and downs, but it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional if you notice: Ongoing feelings of stress, anxiety, or low mood Changes in sleep or appetite Difficulty concentrating or managing daily tasks Feeling overwhelmed or withdrawn Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy Early support can make a meaningful difference. Supporting your mental wellbeing There are simple steps that can support mental health over time: Staying connected with friends, family, or community groups Spending time outdoors and keeping active Maintaining a regular sleep routine Taking breaks and managing stress where possible Reaching out for support when needed Everyone’s experience is different, so it’s important to find what works for you. Local support in Alice Springs There are a range of services and support networks available in Alice Springs, including community organisations, counselling services, and healthcare providers. Headspace Alice Springs Free and confidential support for young people aged 12–25, including counselling, mental health support, and alcohol and drug services. Sandstone Therapy Centre Local counselling service offering support for mental health, trauma, anxiety, life stress, and alcohol or drug concerns. Mental Health Association of Central Australia (MHACA) Provides individual and group support programs and can help connect people with appropriate local services. Relationships Australia NT Counselling and mediation services for individuals, couples, and families. Taking the first step Focusing on mental health is a simple reminder to check in with yourself and others. If you have concerns about your mental wellbeing, speaking with your GP is a good place to start. They can provide advice, discuss options, and help you access the right support. Phone and crisis support (available locally and nationwide) NT Mental Health Line – 1800 682 288 (24/7 crisis assessment and advice) Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 (mental health support and information) Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 (ages 5–25) 13YARN – 13 92 76 (support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)

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As the seasons begin to change, April is a good time to check in on your health. Cooler weather, increased pollen levels, and seasonal illnesses can all have an impact, particularly for people living with allergies or asthma, or those due for routine immunisations. Taking small, proactive steps now can help reduce the risk of illness and support overall wellbeing for you and your family. Why immunisation matters Immunisation plays an important role in protecting individuals and the broader community from preventable diseases. Staying up to date with recommended vaccines can help reduce the spread of illness, particularly during the colder months when respiratory infections are more common. Vaccination needs can vary depending on age, lifestyle, and individual health conditions. If you are unsure whether you or your family members are up to date, it is worth checking your records or speaking with a healthcare professional. Managing allergies during seasonal change Autumn can be a challenging time for people who experience allergies. Changes in pollen, dust, and environmental conditions may trigger symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, or skin irritation. Some practical ways to manage allergy symptoms include: • Monitoring local pollen levels where possible • Keeping windows closed on high pollen days • Showering after spending time outdoors • Using appropriate medications as advised by a healthcare professional If symptoms are persistent or worsening, a review with your doctor can help ensure your management plan is still effective. Supporting asthma control For people living with asthma, seasonal shifts can increase the likelihood of flare ups. Cold air, respiratory infections, and allergens are common triggers during this time of year. It can be helpful to: • Review your asthma action plan • Check that inhalers are up to date and being used correctly • Be aware of early warning signs such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath • Seek medical advice if symptoms are changing or becoming harder to control Regular check-ins can help reduce the risk of more serious episodes and support better day to day management. A good time for a general health check April is also a good reminder to stay on top of routine health checks. Whether it is reviewing medications, discussing ongoing conditions, or addressing new concerns, early attention can make a meaningful difference. If you have been putting off a visit, consider booking a general check up to stay on track with your health goals.

A regular GP builds a picture of your health over time. Here is why that matters more than most people realise.

Supporting your health from the inside out. Good nutrition is one of the most important foundations of long term health. The food we eat affects our energy levels, immune system, digestion, mental wellbeing and risk of chronic disease. This month, we are focusing on Nutrition, Gut Health and Food Literacy to help our community make informed and confident choices about their health. What is Gut Health? Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, often referred to as the gut microbiome. These bacteria play an important role in digestion, supporting the immune system and influencing overall wellbeing. A healthy gut is supported by eating a wide variety of foods, particularly those rich in fibre. Wholegrains, legumes, fruit and vegetables all help nourish beneficial gut bacteria. You can learn more about how your digestive system works here: healthdirect.gov.au/digestive-system The Importance of Fibre Many Australians do not consume enough fibre. Fibre helps keep your bowels regular, supports healthy gut bacteria and may reduce the risk of certain chronic conditions. Good sources of fibre include: • Wholegrain bread and cereals • Brown rice and oats • Lentils, beans and chickpeas • Fruit and vegetables If you are increasing your fibre intake, do so gradually and drink plenty of water. Read more about healthy eating and balanced nutrition: healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-eating Understanding Ultra Processed Foods Ultra processed foods are heavily manufactured products that often contain added sugars, salt, fats and artificial ingredients. Examples include sugary drinks, packaged snack foods and some ready made meals. While these foods can be convenient, regularly consuming large amounts may increase your risk of health conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Learn more about ultra processed foods and how to reduce them in your diet. Common Nutrient Deficiencies Even with a varied diet, some people may develop vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Iron deficiency, for example, is common and can cause fatigue, weakness and reduced concentration. You can read more about: • Vitamin and mineral deficiency: healthdirect.gov.au/vitamin-and-mineral-deficiency • Iron deficiency: healthdirect.gov.au/iron-deficiency • Protein and its role in the body: healthdirect.gov.au/protein If you are experiencing ongoing fatigue or other symptoms, speak with your GP before starting supplements. Testing and personalised advice are important to ensure safe and effective treatment. Building Food Literacy Food literacy is about understanding what is in your food and how it affects your body. It includes skills such as reading nutrition labels, planning meals and preparing balanced meals at home. Tools like the FoodSwitch app can help you compare products and make informed choices while shopping. Small, sustainable changes can have a meaningful impact on your health over time.

General practice in Alice Springs is unlike anywhere else in Australia. The clinical variety is real. The need is real. And the community you serve will stay with you.