Community members, family, mental health and healthy aging

FIVE QUESTIONS is where we ask members of the community to talk about how they stay HEALTHY. Randwick scientist and grandmother Hilda Stender shared this:

1 February 2023
5 Questions

What exercise did you do yesterday?

I’ve had two knee replacements – one four years ago and the other six months ago. As a result, my mobility has been compromised. However recently I’ve started walking again for about an hour a day and I also do some stretching exercises my physio gave me to do post op. Added to that, I make sure I walk up and down the internal stairs in my home at least ten times a day. All this keeps me mobile.

What did you eat today?

Every day I have a white coffee in the morning and then I have a late lunch which is usually a home-made soup. That’s usually everything I eat because as a result of being so inactive (due to my two knee replacements), I don’t need to eat much anymore.

How do you look after your mental health?

I’ve recently had someone tell me that because I’m old, I’m ‘allowed to be stupid’. I found it very patronising. I’ve been stressed lately because a DA has gone into council nearby that might mean I become housebound. It has been keeping me awake at night. For my mental health, I like to read, chat to my friends, my two sons and their families and stay as fit as possible. I speak German and English but I’m also learning two other languages.

When did you last see a primary health professional?

A few weeks ago. He tested my blood and when the results came back, he advised me to reduce my drinking.

What are your health goals for the next month?

I plan to keep building up my exercise routine and also stop drinking altogether.

Read previous ‘FIVE QUESTIONS’ here