Created by Vision Australia’s Wellbeing team and produced by Vision Australia Radio, our Mindful Minutes Podcast is a 7-part series of approximately 15 minute episodes, designed to support the wellbeing of older Australian's who are blind or have low vision.
In this podcast series, we delve into the emotional impacts of vision loss, share inspiring personal stories, and highlight essential aspects of wellbeing. Each episode is guided by experts and packed with practical advice on social connections, mindfulness, staying active, and self-care.
Episode Highlights and Breakdowns Episode 1: Emotional Wellbeing and The Big 5
"Meaningful activities are the things that bring you joy, and these are the kinds of things that we stop doing when go through a life change."
Hear valuable insights into the MindSpot "Big 5" aspects of emotional wellbeing in this episode. Through practical tips and expert advice, discover effective ways to maintain mental and emotional balance. Hosted by Vision Australia’s own Courtney McKee, with guest speaker Professor Nick Titov, CEO of Mindspot Australia.
Episode #2: Understanding the Emotional Impact of a Vision Loss Diagnosis
“The feeling of hopelessness was probably the hardest emotion to deal with.”
Explore the emotional challenges following a vision loss diagnosis, gaining insights to navigate and understand these feelings. Experts offer reassurance, share common emotions, and provide practical advice, ensuring you feel supported and less alone. Hosted by Vision Australia’s own Rebecca Kent, with guest speaker Belinda Wilson.
Episode #3: A Story of Vision Loss
“Vision is something we don’t know we value until we begin to lose it.”
Discover an inspiring personal story of vision loss that beautifully highlights resilience and adaptation, offering reassurance, motivation, and comfort to those facing similar challenges. Hosted by Vision Australia’s own Simran Kaur, with guest speaker Nemoy Malcolm.
Episode #4: The Importance of Social Wellbeing
“It’s not just about saying I want to go do this activity, but it’s about the accessibility on how to get there.”
Social connections play a crucial role in everyone’s overall wellbeing. Listen on as we discuss the importance of maintaining relationships and offer tips on how to stay connected with loved ones and the community during a life post-diagnosis. Hosted by Vision Australia’s own Grant Wilson, with guest speaker Melissa Howe.
Episode #5: Staying Active with Vision Loss
“Overcome the excuses and barriers and just realise okay, what are the benefits of achieving what I want to do?”
Physical activity is crucial for our health and wellbeing. Discover practical advice on adaptive exercises and activities that are safe, enjoyable, and tailored for people living with vision loss. Hosted by Vision Australia’s own Jason Gipps, with guest speaker Jason Whiter, Blind Sports Australia Ambassador.
Episode #6: Practicing Self-Care
“Do something that gives you joy, even for a brief moment.”
Self-care is crucial for managing stress and maintaining our overall wellbeing. In this episode, we share tailored self-care strategies for those with vision loss, helping listeners prioritise their wellbeing and remember to take care of themselves. Hosted by Vision Australia’s own Debbie Loke, with guest speaker Megan Kohlhagen.
Episode #7: Vision Loss and Grief
“The difference with vision loss, there's no death, there's no rituals to acknowledge it or properly grieve."
Grieving vision loss is a natural and important process. Discover support and guidance to help navigate your changing emotions as you work through the unique stages of grief. Hosted by Vision Australia's own Simone Graziani, with guest speaker Chris Hall, CEO of Grief Australia.
This project was made possible with funding from Wicking Trust, supporting Vision Australia by changing the landscape for people who are blind or have low vision, now and into the future.
