Exercising is so important to overall health, wellness and quality of life – especially as you age.

The Exercise Physiologist Program Lead who is based at the Uniting AgeWell’s AgeWell Centre in Northcote is passionate about helping older people be as strong, fit and independent as they can be.  A sizeable 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 the usual wear and tear that ageing produces.

“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 they 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 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.

“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.”

Cassandra is part of Uniting AgeWell’s Allied Health Team, which has continued to raise the bar in providing best care to Uniting AgeWell customers, was named BEST Team of the Year for 2025 at the prestigious AgeWell Awards in November. 

Find out more about their work by watching their video.

Get your free ticket to the Ageing Well expo here.