Champions of Recovery | George Rasmussen

At 87, George Rasmussen's remarkable drive is as strong as ever.

The former structural engineer only recently retired from part-time consulting, having stepped away from full-time work at seventy. Now, his focus is on staying fit, active, and fully engaged in life.

“You have to make a concentrated effort because it’s very easy to slip backwards,” said George. “Fortunately, as an engineer, I’ve always had to be resourceful, so I see the need for keeping myself active.”

As a younger man, George was “quite sporty”, enjoying athletics, running and swimming. As he got older, regular walks with his brother-in-law helped him stay fit. But his active lifestyle had been derailed by problems with his knees, and the loss of his wife five years ago. He was left feeling isolated, and lacking in confidence. 

“It's no fun living by yourself, especially when you're an active person, because you miss the contact you had in your workplace. Then after I had a couple of falls, my balance wasn't good and I was a bit unsteady,” said George.

Earlier this year, George joined Brightwater’s Instinct program, undertaking 10-weeks of exercise, education, and social interaction. His goal was to reduce his fall risk and boost his confidence.

"George was determined to make a change, and he successfully reduced his fall risk from moderate to very low, which is an impressive achievement,” said Claire Myhill, Brightwater At Home Senior Physiotherapist.

It’s George’s attitude that has particularly impressed the two therapists who designed the Instinct program, Senior Physiotherapist Claire Myhill and Senior Occupational Therapist Suzanne Kerr.

“George has really taken charge of his own health. Living on your own can make it hard to get that motivation to exercise and to mix with people. But George is coming regularly and enjoying the social aspect as well as being challenged,” said Suzanne.

“His belief in his ability to improve is inspiring. Sometimes, as people get older, they think, ‘That’s it. This is how I am, and I can't change. I can't get better. George really took the attitude that he could get better,” said Claire.

Education and Reconnection Drive Transformation

The Instinct Program is held in small groups at Brightwater Inglewood, and integrates physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise, and education. George says he found value in the functional exercises, such as bending over clothes baskets and reaching up to cupboards, but for him, the greatest impact came from the education sessions led by allied health professionals.

“A dietitian came and stressed the importance of eating correctly. And I thought, ‘Right, this is for me.’ You see, cooking is not my forte. But after the talk, I made an effort to improve my meals and eat more nutritiously,” said George.

Claire describes George as a model client who was keen to learn and grow. 

“He was very engaged with the process, asking questions, then coming back and telling us that he made those changes,” said Claire.

George attributes much of his success in the Instinct program to the social interaction it provided. He says strong bonds formed during each session, which concluded with sharing a meal together, have extended well beyond the program.

“I’ve enjoyed the company and the emotional benefits of reconnecting with people. I’ll definitely keep it up,” said George.

George is now participating in the advanced Instinct program, where he and his group meet weekly to try games such as badminton, hockey, and ping-pong.

It’s never too late

George says regardless of age, anyone can benefit from staying active.

“It's very easy to feel locked away in your own home. You do have to make a positive and concentrated effort to remain engaged,” said George.

George says there are three things he would recommend to stay involved as you age: Keeping in touch with people, getting out and about, and working on a personal project.

“For the last three years, I’ve been building a little deck at the front of my place. It’s taking a long time, but that’s fine. It keeps me interested,” said George.

Claire and Suzanne support George’s message, emphasising that fear shouldn’t hold you back from doing what you love.

“Being inactive can actually increase the risk of falls and decline due to reduced muscle strength and cognitive function,” said Suzanne. “If you're concerned, start with small activities around the house, like peeling vegetables while seated at the table. Staying active, even in small ways, helps prevent decline.”

“Ask yourself, ‘What do I love doing?’ This can motivate you to get stronger and return to activities you enjoy,” said Claire. “I’ve seen improvements in people up to 103. It is possible.”

As George sees it, staying active is just one part of living well: "Don't bear grudges and try to see a good side to everyone. That will get you a long way."

If you would like more information about Brightwater at Home’s Instinct program, give us a call on 1300 223 968 or email [email protected] If you are already a BAH client, speak to your coordinator to see how you can get involved.