Page 520 - Week 02 - Tuesday, 21 February 2012
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Let me start with information and communication. Recommendations 1, 3, 4 and 6 of the morning committee hearings related to how we communicate with older people to ensure that they have access to relevant and appropriate information. This includes taking into consideration language and literacy requirements and familiarity with different forms of media.
While it is acknowledged that a wealth of information and resources about programs and services exists, the challenge is about how we raise awareness about their existence. Online resources such as the seniors information online portal, the Canberra Connect website and the Health Directorate’s “Find a health service” online portal have been developed to provide gateways to information about activities, events and support services.
As a result of the recommendations from the Older Persons Assembly, we will do more to promote online services and further integrate use of social media. And while a number of older people have embraced new technology, the government acknowledges that the older age spectrum covers a range of generations, many of whom may not be familiar with the internet or social media.
With this in mind, the government continues to communicate information about programs and events through traditional media such as printed material, radio and telephone, and offers assistance to seniors who wish to increase their technological skills. For example, Libraries ACT offer an “internet for seniors” class and technology “tasters” that demonstrate social media such as Twitter and Facebook. The government also assists members of the public to access information in alternative formats such as large print or audio.
Another key theme was about respect, valuing and safety. Recommendations 9 and 10 of the morning hearings emphasised the need to feel respected and valued. The delegates expressed a desire to share their experience with younger generations.
The ACT government encourages younger and older members of our community to develop a greater level of understanding and appreciation of each other’s experience and perspectives by promoting positive images of ageing and intergenerational activities.
Through our seniors grants and sponsorship programs, we have supported intergenerational activities such as bringing school choirs into aged-care homes and encouraging young people from multicultural communities to learn traditional cooking skills from their seniors. Our popular “Annual life’s reflections” photographic competition encourages entrants to present positive images of older people enjoying life, actively participating in their community and staying connected with families and friends. Through the Office for Ageing the government will continue to explore opportunities to highlight the personal experiences and stories of older generations. We also support the establishment of an ACT grandparents day on the last Sunday in October. This celebration will be an opportunity to bring families together to celebrate and honour older people and highlight the contribution that grandparents make to family and community life.
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