In this guide:
Mental wellbeing is a cornerstone of overall quality of life. For people living with disabilities, chronic conditions or the natural changes that come with ageing, it can be the difference between merely getting through the day and truly enjoying it.
Good mental wellbeing isn’t about being happy all the time. It’s about having the resilience, connection and support to manage life’s challenges while finding meaning and joy. And while professional healthcare plays a vital role, everyday encouragement, companionship and structure can be helpful in keeping spirits strong.
This is where independent support workers can come in, by offering personalised, non-medical support that helps people stay connected, engaged and confident and by promoting mental wellbeing through daily routines, social interaction and meaningful activities.
Key insights on mental wellbeing in older people and people with disabilities
Quick takeaways to guide your approach
- Understand the scope. Mental wellbeing includes emotional, psychological and social health, influencing daily decisions and relationships.
- Know the influencing factors. Emotional resilience, social support, physical health and environment all matter.
- Acknowledge unique challenges. Disabilities may bring mobility issues, social isolation and employment barriers. Ageing may bring loneliness, cognitive changes and life transitions.
- Recognise the signs of good wellbeing. Positive emotions, strong relationships, self-care as well as a sense of purpose and resilience.
- Put strategies in place. Routines, social engagement, enjoyable activities and mindfulness can help.
- Use support wisely. Independent support workers on Mable can assist with daily routines, companionship and meaningful activities to boost wellbeing and maintain independence in older adults.
What is mental wellbeing?
Mental wellbeing is a state of emotional, psychological and social health that shapes how we think, feel and interact. It influences our decision-making, our ability to cope with stress and our capacity to build and maintain relationships.
It’s not the same as mental illness. You can have a diagnosed condition and still experience good mental wellbeing with the right strategies and support. And, conversely, you can face wellbeing challenges without a medical diagnosis.
Lifestyle choices, daily routines and social engagement all contribute to mental wellbeing. For people with disabilities and older adults, these factors often need to be intentionally supported to counteract barriers such as mobility limitations, reduced independence or social isolation.
Key factors that influence a person's mental wellbeing
Understanding the factors that may affect mental wellbeing can help identify where support is most needed.
Emotional and psychological factors
- Self-esteem and self-worth
- Ability to manage stress and adapt to change
- Sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Examples of positive mental wellbeing might include feeling valued at work or having a meaningful volunteer role.
Social and environmental factors
- Relationships with friends, family and the wider community
- Opportunities for social interaction and inclusion
- Safe and supportive living environments.
Strong social and mental wellbeing connections are often essential for wellbeing.
Physical health and wellbeing
- Regular physical activity, exercise, movement and mobility
- Adequate sleep and nutrition
- Access to healthcare and assistive technologies.
For many people with disabilities and older adults, these factors are closely connected and a decline in one area can affect the others.
Why mental wellbeing matters to people with disabilities and older people
How does disability affect health and wellbeing? Good mental wellbeing supports independence, motivation and overall quality of life. It helps people stay engaged, make decisions confidently and cope with the inevitable changes that life brings. The mental wellbeing benefits include better social engagement, improved self-esteem and a greater sense of purpose.
The importance of mental wellbeing in people with disability
Disability may affect mental wellbeing in a variety of ways, including:
- Mobility challenges may limit participation in social or recreational activities.
- Social isolation may occur due to accessibility barriers.
- Employment challenges may reduce income, routine and purpose.
- Reduced independence may lead to feelings of frustration or loss of control.
Tailored, person-centred support worker services may help counter these impacts by fostering autonomy, social connection and self-confidence.
The importance of mental wellbeing in older people
Age-related changes can influence mental wellbeing. There are many areas that can be impacted.
- Loneliness and isolation after retirement, bereavement or reduced mobility.
- Loss of independence due to health changes.
- Cognitive shifts including memory concerns.
- Life transitions such as moving into new living arrangements.
Support for wellbeing for older adults encourages social engagement, structured routines and active participation. All can make a meaningful difference.
Not sure where to start? See our guide on how to use Mable to find independent support workers.
What are the characteristics of good mental wellbeing?
Some of the characteristics of good mental wellbeing include:
- Positive emotions – Feeling gratitude, contentment and happiness in everyday life
- Positive relationships – Having people you trust and enjoy spending time with
- Sense of purpose – Engaging in meaningful roles or activities
- Resilience and mental wellbeing – Bouncing back after setbacks and adapting to change
- Optimism – Focusing on possibilities and hope for the future
- Self-esteem – Valuing yourself and feeling respected
- Vitality – Having energy and enthusiasm for daily activities
- Self-care – Taking regular steps to nurture your own wellbeing
- Productivity – Feeling capable and achieving personal goals
- Flexibility – Staying open and adaptable to life’s changes.
Practical strategies to support mental wellbeing, and how independent support workers can help
Everyday habits that build connection, stability and confidence strengthen mental wellbeing. While healthcare providers address medical needs, independent support workers can help people put these habits into practice.
This section outlines some ways that may help you to improve mental wellbeing through realistic, non-medical actions. These are also strategies you can adapt for different needs, providing multiple ways to improve mental wellbeing across different life stages.
Please always remember to consult with a medical practitioner for specific advice relating to your particular health circumstances.
Establishing structured daily routines and habits
Why it matters
According to Beyond Blue, predictable routines reduce stress, promote stability and offer a sense of control.
Examples
- Morning rituals or activity planning
- Consistent personal care routines
- Setting small, achievable goals
- Building in physical wellness habits like regular walks, healthy meals and good sleep.
How support workers can help
- Assist with daily schedules and reminders
- Support with personal care, such as grooming, dressing and meal preparation
- Plan balanced activities combining rest and productivity
- Facilitate light exercise or mobility activities.
Encouraging social connection and engagement
Why it matters
Social interaction combats loneliness and promotes emotional health.
Examples
- Joining community groups or clubs
- Attending social events or virtual meetups
- Connecting regularly with friends and family.
How support workers can help
- Offer companionship and conversation
- Accompany clients to community events or outings
- Organise and facilitate social catch-ups
- Providing support to help prepare for dating with a disability.
Engaging in meaningful and enjoyable activities
Why it matters
Purposeful activities build joy, confidence and a sense of fulfilment.
Examples
- Hobbies such as gardening, art, music or crafts
- Volunteering or mentoring
- Brain games, puzzles or learning new skills.
How support workers can help
- Support clients in pursuing hobbies or creative projects
- Assist with transport support services to help clients attend classes or events
- Encourage and enable participation in new interests.
Supporting emotional resilience and adaptability
Why it matters
Examples
- Mindfulness, meditation or journaling
- Learning problem-solving or coping skills
- Building a strong support network.
How support workers can help
- Provide reassurance during transitions
- Encourage skill-building activities
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals to reinforce coping strategies.
By combining day-to-day encouragement with access to therapeutic supports, collaboration with allied health professionals and specialised strategies to support children with school-related needs, independent support workers can play a vital role in strengthening resilience and adaptability at every stage of life.
Resources on disability and aged care mental wellbeing in Australia
For those seeking trusted mental wellbeing resources, there are several high-quality services available across Australia. The following organisations provide guidance, tools and support to promote better mental wellbeing in Australia for people with disabilities, older adults and their families.
- Beyond Blue – Resources and support for mental wellbeing
- Lifeline Australia – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention
- NDIS – Information on social and community participation supports
- Head to Health – Government mental health resource hub.
If you are experiencing an emergency situation relating to mental wellness, please call emergency services immediately on 000.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between mental health and mental wellbeing?
- Mental health refers to your overall psychological state, including mental illness or conditions.
- Mental wellbeing is about feeling good, functioning well and having resilience regardless of diagnosis.
What are the five steps to mental wellbeing?
The five steps to mental wellbeing are as follows:
- Connect with others
- Be physically active
- Keep learning
- Give to others
- Take notice (practice mindfulness).
How can older adults stay socially connected for better mental wellbeing?
Staying socially connected is a powerful way to support emotional health and maintain independence, helping older people remain engaged, purposeful and part of their community.
- Join local hobby or walking groups
- Volunteer for community projects
- Use technology to stay in touch with family and friends
- Attend regular community or cultural events.
How can the NDIS promote or fund health and wellbeing?
The NDIS provides funding for supports that help participants engage in social, recreational and community activities, improving confidence, independence and emotional health.
The information provided in this article is general information only and based on current information at the date of publication. In addition to considering the information shared in this article, Mable encourages you to conduct your own research and seek independent medical advice relative to your circumstances. If you wish to use your NDIS funding on any of the services outlined above, Mable recommends that you check your NDIS Support Plan or speak with your Plan Manager to ensure that the appropriate services are coverable.