Page 2987 - Week 08 - Wednesday, 6 August 2008
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or an accident, or to assist to deal with more chronic conditions. Often older people need mobility equipment loaned to them short term. This free service can make a world of difference between getting back on one’s feet literally and remaining housebound, for instance.
Another example of the good work that is happening within ACT Health is the programs for older people, including the appointment of a multicultural case manager for the HACC program at Southside Community Services. Additionally, the home and community care program assists people in obtaining basic maintenance and support services, which can mean the difference for them with regard to remaining in their own homes independently while participating in the community or needing to move into care.
The ACT government’s active ageing framework develops a coordinated approach involving key stakeholders to increase the participation of older people in physical activity. The strategy acknowledges and builds on the programs and services currently offered in the ACT through such organisations as the YMCA and the National Heart Foundation. As you know, Mr Deputy Speaker, I am a keen supporter of the arts in the ACT and I am pleased that through the Office of Ageing the ACT government funds an award as part of the Canberra and area theatre awards to recognise the contribution of older Canberrans to amateur theatre.
Additionally, community arts officers help community members of all ages to gain access to the arts and participate in cultural programs. Along with key arts organisations, the government also provides opportunities for older people to participate through targeted programs.
Other Stanhope government programs that support broad community social participation by older people include Seniors Week. It offers approximately 70 events held each year for older people and their families. The government provides free travel during that week for all senior cardholders. Canberra Connect seniors information service provides, as its name suggests, information on seniors activities, groups events and other government support services. Additionally, funding of the ACT seniors card program, administered by the Council on the Ageing (ACT), is a notable government initiative. This program is a way of recognising the contribution of all seniors to the Australian community by assisting them to continue to access goods and services, including public transport and recreational services. There are over 40,000 senior cardholders in the ACT.
Through the government’s support, the Canberra Retirement and Lifestyle Expo showcases a broad range of resources and information to Canberra seniors and their families as a part of promoting positive ageing. Through the Office of Ageing, the government promotes positive ageing and positive images of older people, by conducting the life’s reflection photography competition. The competition serves to break down the stereotypical image of older people as being frail and inactive. I officiated at the announcement of the prize winners this year and was pleased to see so many wonderful images displayed in the Canberra Centre.
The Chief Minister’s lifetime achievement awards are an opportunity to celebrate the lives and achievements of older Canberrans and to acknowledge the contribution that
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