Page 1219 - Week 04 - Tuesday, 24 March 2009
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the impact of government policies and programs on the quality of life for older Canberrans.
This strategic plan will be set within a framework of social inclusion and will be consistent with the United Nations principles for older persons, and they are: independence, participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity. As we age, our health and wellbeing can determine the extent to which we can stay active and connected with our community. It may also have a profound effect on our general sense of happiness and contentment with life.
Increased longevity of the population is in part due to a decrease in some diseases and improved public health programs. However, as more people live longer the prevalence of many chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, breathing diseases, depression, diabetes and osteoporosis will increase.
As well as the personal effect on individuals and their families, this has significant implications for our healthcare services, both in terms of costs and the availability of a healthcare workforce. Health services will need to respond to the changing health status of older people in a way that is person centred and accessible as well as being cooperative, coordinated and cost effective.
Perception of safety and the confidence it brings are important considerations for older people as they decide how and where to participate in the community. Also, as a society, we must not tolerate any abuse of older people, whether it be physical, emotional or financial abuse or by neglect. I hope you are listening to me, Mrs Dunne.
We are aware that accommodation needs and circumstances may change as people grow older. For example, non-home owners living on an age pension or on a small self-funded pension may need access to secure affordable rental housing. Some people may need their home modified to help them cope with frailty, while others might want to downsize or move to a retirement village. Many older people may prefer to remain in their existing home. If staying in your own home is not an option, many older people will still prefer to at least stay in the vicinity of an existing neighbourhood where they have established networks of friends and neighbours.
Services are important at all stages of our lives, whether it is to get our car fixed, borrow a book or see a doctor. As people grow older, they may need additional support services such as health and transport services. Older people often prefer or need services that are tailored to their changing needs, such as groups that provide programs of physical activities which are mature-age friendly. They also appreciate buildings that are accessible to them and services that come to their home, like shopping deliveries.
Access to safe, flexible and accessible transport options is a key factor in older people’s ability to stay independent and actively participate in their communities. As people age, they may find that they are no longer able to drive or may choose not to. Others may lose their spouse, who was the active driver, or they may not be able to afford to maintain a private vehicle.
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