This week “CityNews” speaks with the people and services passionate about improving the lives of Canberra’s older community.

From looking after their health to getting their affairs in order, these Canberra businesses know the importance of helping the older community.

This expertise allows seniors to balance their priorities with ease, making time for both the necessary and the fun.

“CityNews” speaks with the people and services passionate about improving the lives of Canberra’s older community.

Law firm with a focus on will and estates

AS one of Canberra’s largest independent law firms, MV Law delivers a comprehensive range of specialised legal services. Multiple award-winning MV Law Partner, Tanya Herbertson, and her team offer a wealth of experience in wills and estate planning and disputes. Tanya says she’s been in the industry for more than 20 years and loves connecting with her clients.

“Personal law is just that: personal. All the expertise in the world doesn’t mean anything if you don’t also have the emotional IQ to truly put yourself in someone else’s shoes,” she says.

Tanya says that their focus is on estate planning, making wills, and organising people’s power of attorney, as well as answering questions about guardianship issues and tribunal issues. 

“I love the people side of it, I love hearing people’s stories, hearing their issues or problems and helping them to work out a path forward.

MV Law, Level 2, 121 Marcus Clarke Street, Civic. Call 6279 4444, email info@mvlaw.com.au or visit mvlaw.com.au

Personal customer service to suit anyone

TONY Ayres, manager of Sears Morton, says for people who experience mobility issues, daily tasks that many people take for granted can become quite difficult.

“A seemingly simple task, like getting out of a chair, can be a hazard,” he says.

“Thanks to innovations from furniture designers and manufacturers, there are items of furniture such as lift chairs that can be of much-needed assistance to those facing this problem.

“An electric lift chair allows the user to transition comfortably from standing to a seated position, and then back up again. Lift chairs aim to fully support the user throughout the entire motion from standing to sitting, reducing the likelihood of potential injuries or falls.

“This type of chair is recommended for those with limited mobility such as the elderly or those recovering from injuries or surgery.”

Tony prides himself on his customer service.

“I’ve had feedback from seniors, they appreciate old-fashioned, personal customer service,” says Tony.

“I realise the importance of helping people find the right chair.

“People can personalise the colour of their lift chairs, too. They come in both neutral colours and bright colours, and there’s a spring sale across the store now.”

Sears Morton, 167 Newcastle Street, Fyshwick. Call 6280 5587, or visit searsmorton.com.au

 

Exercise classes keep seniors fit and connected

FIVE days a week Arthritis ACT hosts senior exercise classes that CEO Rebecca Davey says are a great way to stay fit and meet new people.

“They’re great exercise for seniors but more importantly they’re a really nice way to meet other people that might be going through some of the same challenges,” says Rebecca.

“Other people living with pain, other people who are not happy with the fact that their body isn’t working quite as well as they are used to anymore. “What most people find is it’s the friendships they make that’s the really special thing – the social connections.”

Rebecca says that the classes have no upper or lower age limit, either.

“Anyone of any age can come,” she says.

“Most of our classes do tend to have people that are retired and are older but there is no age limit. 

“Occasionally we have some young people come as well and that gives a nice mix because it’s more like a community.”

Rebecca says the classes cover everything from strength and balance training to chair yoga to tai chi, as well as specially tailored classes for small groups.

That’s only the start, Rebecca says, with Arthritis ACT also offering services such as exercise physiology, disability support and meal planning to help people in managing their pain.

“No question is too big or small for us,” she says.

Arthritis ACT, Building 18, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

Expert renovation team maximises profit

YOUR Property Profits is here to make sure people who are physically or financially limited in their ability to renovate their homes are not disadvantaged by their current circumstances, says owner Sophie McLean.

“Our renovations are strategic, we only renovate where we can create an uplift in value,” she says.

“Our most recent sale, at Holt, attracted more than five times the number of visitors to the property than other comparable properties on the market in the area at the time.”

Sophie says the expert team undertakes cosmetic and reconfiguration renovations designed to maximise profit and offer a bespoke service catered to the individual needs of each of their clients, especially seniors who can often face problems when selling their homes. 

“They may need or choose to downsize their homes, or to move into a retirement village. They may have medical issues that leave them physically restricted. They are often on the pension which limits their ability to lend from major financial institutions,” says Sophie.

“We do all the work. We pay all the costs and we make sure they walk away with more money in their pockets than they would have had selling without us.  And there’s a lot people can do with that extra cash! 

“For some this cash is essential for their ongoing care and medical bills, for others it has a huge impact on their quality of life and independence. Either way, more cash in their pockets gives them greater freedom to choose how they spend their retirement.”

Your Property Profits. Call 1800 225597 or visit yourpropertyprofits.com.au

The importance of an up-to-date will

CAPON and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators can help clients update their will as they get older to ensure their wishes are respected, says wills and estate-planning lawyer Ashilpa Khanna.

Ashilpa, who has also recently been made a notary public, says some people don’t have a will, which means their possessions are instead distributed by the “rules of intestacy”.

“This distribution means that someone – your spouse or a family member – will have to apply to the court to be appointed administrator before they can handle your estate,” she says.

This can be costly and time-consuming. Even if they have a will, Ashilpa says it’s important that seniors periodically review it, especially after significant events such as when children get married or the birth of a grandchild.

“At the forefront of people’s minds is making sure their financial and legal affairs are in order so that, in the event of a crisis, their loved ones are secure and can be provided for as intended,” she says.

Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators has been helping people with their legal matters for more than 34 years and can also help seniors with a range of legal issues in areas such as family law, children’s matters, conveyancing, and power of attorney.

“We are focused on giving honest and expert advice at all times,” she says.

“Our staff are experienced in their fields and we take pride in knowing that they will always use common sense, respect, courtesy and good judgement when dealing with clients.”

Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators, first floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Phillip. Email enquiries@chsol.com.au, call 6152 9203 or visit chsol.com.au

Staying social, connected and cared for

AS people approach retirement, they start to consider the things that are most important, says Warrigal Aged Care CEO, Mark Sewell.

“It should be time to be excited about what’s next, and with Warrigal’s network of community villages across NSW – including Queanbeyan on the doorstep of the ACT – you have keeping social, connected and cared for, your way, to look forward to,” he says.

“Warrigal’s community villages are carefully designed to foster a caring and connected community of like-minded people looking to enjoy their later years. These spaces nurture the ability to form new friendships over shared hobbies, while boasting modern facilities for a comfortable life.

“In addition to emergency call systems and in-home care options for peace of mind, Warrigal’s villas and apartments are modern, open plan, with high-quality features and fittings. Depending on your location choice, you can enjoy a one to three-bedroom property with a courtyard, maintained or self-maintained gardens, barbecue areas with car spaces, carports and garages.”

Mark says recreational activities take place in outdoor areas, such as games, hobby clubs, exercise groups, happy hour and many other leisure activities.

“You can also take advantage of on-site libraries, wellness centres including hairdressers, transport assistance, and of course bring your pets along, too, as most Warrigal communities are pet friendly.

“Warrigal regularly takes feedback on-board to upgrade what’s on offer.”

Warrigal Aged Care, call 1800 927 744 or visit warrigal.com.au

Strengthening classes for people aged 50+

HIGHER Function offers a range of classes that are taught by experienced physiotherapists and exercise physiologists, using evidence-based exercises, says physiotherapist Andrea Rich.

“Strong Bones is a group class designed specifically for people with osteoporosis and osteopenia (low bone density),” she says.

“This class focuses on exercises to safely improve bone density – stomping, holding weights – and incorporates strength training, mobility and balance exercises to improve overall mobility and prevent falls.

“Strength For Life is a class for people over the age of 50 in which you receive your own personalised strength and exercise program and are working towards your own individual goals.

“Golf Fit is great for those who want to play longer games of golf without pain, prevent injuries and improve mobility, strength, power and speed.”

Andrea says people come to class to work hard, get stronger and reduce their pain, but the atmosphere is still fun and friendly.

“Lots of people have become friends and go for a well-earned coffee after classes,” she says.

“Our small group classes allow for everyone to receive attention from the therapist, ensuring they are performing exercises correctly, safely and can offer modifications where needed.”

“We have a 90-year-old client who attends three classes a week. We have lots of fun but still work hard.”

Higher Function Physio & Pilates, Suite 4, Level 1/23 Petrie Plaza. Call 6262 9664 or visit higherfunction.com.au

 

Experienced surgeons improve patients’ quality of life

ORTHOPAEDICS ACT was established in 2013, and provides a complete range of care for patients with orthopedic conditions.

Associate Professor Chris Roberts says they are the largest and most comprehensive orthopedic practice in Canberra.

“Our specialists are experienced orthopedic surgeons,” he says.

The goal at Orthopaedics ACT is to treat patients with musculoskeletal disorders, strive to reduce pain, and improve their patient’s function and quality of life.

Chris Roberts says this may involve trauma and fractures, sporting injuries, high-speed motor vehicle accidents, overuse injuries, arthritis and disabling pain.

“There is nothing more satisfying than hearing from our patients that there has been a reduction in their pain or that they are pain free and able to get back to activity without restrictions,” he says.

“At Orthopaedics ACT we have all devoted ourselves to caring for our patients and striving to be the best in our field.”

Orthopaedics ACT, Woden Specialist Medical Centre, level 2, 90 Corinna Street, Phillip. Call 6221 9320 or visit orthoact.com.au

Aged care facility ‘feels like home’

VILLAGGIO Sant’ Antonio is a multicultural aged-care facility that feels like home, says general manager Alan Hardie.

“It’s a calm, peaceful place with beautiful gardens and we try to keep that relaxed ambience,” he says.

“We have an activities lifestyle co-ordinator who organises functions, outings and buses for residents. 

“Our villa residents also have access to a bus so they organise their own happy hours, travels, visits to galleries and more.”

Alan says the facility, licensed for more than 100 residents, is conveniently located nearby everything that seniors need.

“We’re about one and a half kilometres from shopping, medical centres, main highways and on-site parking,” he says.

He also says Villaggio provides 24-hour nursing care to residents.

“We’ve got visiting doctors, a podiatrist, physiotherapist on-site and more.

“Residents consider it as their own home and we try to make them feel as comfortable as we can and look after their needs as much as possible.”

Villaggio Sant’ Antonio, 35 Burkitt Street, Page. Call 6255 1794 or visit villaggio.com.au

Enlightening people on their legal options

TAKING the first step in estate planning is often an enlightening experience, with many people surprised to find out what they’re actually worth, says KJB Law’s estate planning special counsel Kerstin Glomb.

“I have clients who believe they don’t own much, but then when we walk through things like superannuation and life insurance they’re surprised to find out how much they’re actually worth and what they have to organise,” she says.

“After that initial meeting I find people feel a lot of relief and peace of mind that they’ve started the process.”

Although it can be an uncomfortable topic to approach, Kerstin says estate planning is something everyone should think about and KJB takes pride in helping ease the burden and making clients feel comfortable.

“We guide people through what options they have and what they should address so that they can take charge in providing protection for themselves and their loved ones,” says Kerstin.

“It’s about working out with a client who are the right people in their family or broader surroundings and then structuring their document to reflect that. “There’s nothing better than when people say after signing that they’re happy to have it in place, feel comfortable and most importantly that they understand what they’ve signed.”

KJB Law, ground floor, 10 Corinna Street, Woden. Call 6281 0999 or visit kjblaw.com.au

Where community and compassion meet

SUNROOM for Seniors is a small, welcoming group providing an opportunity for social interaction and friendship, says program co-ordinator Tegan Johns.

“We provide a program of activities adapted to attendees’ needs and interests,” says Tegan.

“Sunroom for Seniors meets in a specially designed facility at the North Belconnen Uniting Church on Conley Drive, Melba, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm.

Tegan says the group offers enjoyable activities in a warm and friendly setting where seniors can meet and get to know each other, all supported by qualified staff and volunteers.

“Transport is available and provided by our friendly volunteers,” she says.

Sunroom for Seniors, North Belconnen Uniting Church, 30 Conley Drive, Melba. Call 0481 185205 or visit sunroomforseniors.org.au

 

Protecting seniors from discrimination

“SENIOR Canberrans are protected from discrimination and unfair treatment under ACT law,” says Discrimination, Health Services, Disability and Community Services Commissioner at the ACT Human Rights Commission, Karen Toohey.

“This means that you or someone you care for doesn’t have to put up with discrimination or unfair treatment because of age, where you live, disability or family and carer responsibilities.”

The Commission can help seniors with matters relating to discrimination in employment, housing and accommodation, provision of health services, issues with residential aged care providers or in-home aged care services, physical or psychological abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.

“We are told that some older people do not want to report abuse or exploitation because they are concerned about the impact on family relationships or the care and support they receive,” says Toohey.

“The benefit of our process is that it can be anonymous. We work towards the outcome the older person is seeking – that might be the return of money or assets, or for a person to move out of their home so they feel safe.

“Where the older person wants the relationship maintained we work with them, and the other people involved, to make arrangements for the ongoing relationship.”

Commissioner Toohey also says that people sometimes think their issue is too small or too individual to make a complaint. 

“Or they think a matter would need to go to court or involve the police, so they may prefer not to raise their concerns,” she says. 

“We know these types of issues impact on people’s health and wellbeing and their participation in public life so we encourage people to give us a call and talk about their options.”

All services are free and confidential.

ACT Human Rights Commission, call 6205 2222 or visit hrc.act.gov.au

Experienced packers that save time and stress

THE local team at House to Home are experienced packers who have been helping Canberrans get their property ready for sales, renovations, insurance work, downsizing and relocating for over 10 years, says co-owner Renee Le Grande.

“Our expert team will save you hours of time and stress by packing all your personal belongings, household items, right through to packing up the shed,” she says.

“The team offers a personalised service and recognises every client is different and has different needs and expectations.

“Some people want the kitchen, bathroom and wardrobes packed, others want everything that is in a cupboard or behind a closed door.”

Renee says they also offer a full walk-in walk-out service, where clients hand over their keys and the staff completely clear the property, remove the furniture, take necessary items to a charity store, get the old property cleaned, and set everything up again in the new home.

House to Home. Call 0457 456767 or visit house-to-home.com.au

The importance of regular eye check-ups

OPTOMETRIST Damien Lonergan of Collins and Lonergan Evolve Optometry says it’s important for people of all ages to get their eyes checked regularly.

“Both seniors and young people should be getting check-ups every two to three years,” says Damien.

“Because a lot of eye diseases are not curable, early detection is key. We say anyone over the age of 50 should potentially be having more comprehensive testing done.”

Damien, who has been in the optometry industry for more than two decades, says macular degeneration is one of the key issues which affects older people.

“It affects one in four people over the age of 80 and one in seven people between the age of 50 and 80,” he says.

“The earlier we find it the earlier we can put effective measures and strategies in.”

Locally owned and operated, Evolve also offers a large selection of glasses and Damien can also prescribe eye medication.

“When you come in we’ll talk about your experience in the past and anything you’re experiencing that may be a concern,” he says.

“We look forward to the opportunity to care for your eyes and your eyewear with a focus on what you need, accompanied by some good old-fashioned customer service.”

Evolve Optometry, Gungahlin Village (opposite Coles). Call 6189 5891 or visit evolveoptometry.com.au

 

Kim’s passionate about improving your home

AS the owner of Renovation Matters, Kim says her love of renovating has seen her take her passion from a hobby to a successful business and with more than 30 renovations under her belt, she’s got the experience and know-how to transform homes to the best effect. 

“We can help people renovate to sell or re-tenant as well as renovate to enjoy their home even more,” she says. 

Renovation Matters offers a “fix up, profit and pay later” process in which they can cover upfront renovation costs before settlement.

“I’m hearing from some real estate agents that houses that are unrenovated or needing repairs are sitting on the market and not moving,” says Kim.

“People haven’t got the time or energy in the current climate. It’s hard to get trades and supplies.”

Kim says she works with specialised tradespeople who she trusts to bring their expertise and skill to clients’ renovation projects. 

“We provide a full service for clients. Some people might need to move interstate or have family responsibilities that means they need to hand over their home renovation totally to us. 

“If we are needed to help a client, there’s nothing we can’t do to help make the renovation a stress-free experience.

“Come and visit us at seniors’ expo on September 28.”

Renovation Matters, visit renovationmatters.com.au or call Kim on 0427 696662.

 

Home-care services across Canberra

THE Salvation Army Aged Care offers Home Care Services across Canberra. The general manager of Salvos Home Care, Fiona Sanders, says that Home Care (also known as community care, in-home care, home support) is when care workers and nursing staff provide support to enable older people to live independently in their own homes. 

“The Home Care team can assist with a wide range of tasks such as bathing, nursing, domestic assistance, gardening, assisted transport, allied health and therapy services, and more, with each care package tailored to the needs of the care recipient,” she says.

“A significant number of older Australians would prefer to live at home and receive care as they age. There are different types of funding available to support older Australians to remain living safely at home. The system can be difficult to navigate however, and so if you don’t know where to go for help, we’re here to help.” 

Fiona says that one of the services that the Salvos provide is to help people navigate the aged-care system. They can try to help speed up the process of being assessed by finding out what funding someone is eligible for and help with the paperwork and application. Salvos Home Care offers this service for free and without any obligations.

“My advice would be to get started on the process before you think you might need it and don’t wait until you realise you are unable to do all those household chores you used to manage easily.”

For more information, contact Salvos Home Care Canberra on 1300 111 227 or visit agedcare.salvos.org.au

Supplies that make daily living easier

CAPITAL Rehabilitation Supplies aims to make the day-to-day lives of seniors and people living with disabilities easier and more comfortable, says manager and owner Tim Robinson.

“We have a range of products available for purchase or hire that can help anyone with their needs,” says Tim.

“Just some of these products include electric lift chairs, height-adjustable chairs, pressure care cushions and mattresses, electric hospital beds and home care beds, mobility aids such as walkers, wheelchairs, rollators, crutches and walking sticks.”

A family owned business with more than 40 years of experience in the industry, Tim says Capital Rehabilitation Supplies understands every individual has their own needs.

“We know that some of these issues are sensitive, and can be uncomfortable to deal with, so we try to be as delicate and helpful as possible. If we do not stock a certain item we will always do everything in our power to locate the product,” he says.

“We pride ourselves on our patience and helpful attitude. People can come discuss what they require with us and we can find what works for them.”

Capital Rehabilitation Supplies, 3/66 Heffernan Street, Mitchell. Visit capitalrehabilitationsupplies.com.au or call 6174 4813.

 

Northside brings collaboration and smiles

NORTHSIDE Community Service is a not-for-profit organisation that has been supporting the community in North Canberra and beyond since 1976, says care co-ordinator Kate Malone.

This year, Northside has introduced an intergenerational program – “Learning Through the Ages”.

“Each week our senior social group spends time with our preschool aged children from one of our four Northside Early Childhood Centres, giving the opportunity for meaningful interactions and relationships to be built over a 10-week period,” says Kate.

“Research into intergenerational learning has shown extensive benefits for both the seniors and children in regards to their mental and emotional health, and overall wellbeing.

“The music and movement focus has been an enjoyable one.”

Kate says they’re looking forward to beginning gardening sessions in the courtyard from next week.

“I cannot wait to see the collaboration of the children and seniors literally come to life,” she says.

“This program has already proved an invaluable one here at Northside, and we are very excited to continue watching the countless positive outcomes unfold.

“That’s where Northside stands out and makes that difference in the community, with its people who are here day in, day out with a smile on their face and mission in their hearts.”

Northside Community Service, 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson. Call 6171 8000, email reception@northside.asn.au or visit northside.asn.au

Quality legal advice secures peace of mind

IT’S important to get legal advice before committing to the sale or purchase of property, says Capon and Hubert property and commercial solicitor Daryn Griffiths. 

Daryn says the ACT and NSW are unique in that they don’t offer cooling off periods to the same extent as other states.

“Once you’ve committed yourself to the purchase of a residential property, you have a certain period of time to organise some of your affairs and finance and make requests of the seller to go investigate the property a bit more,” he says.

“During that time you have the ability to walk away from the contract, and the impost on you is only .25 per cent of the price.

“In the ACT and NSW our cooling off period is much shorter, generally seven days or five business days. We have a system here where you really can’t do much in that period of time so we need to make sure your ducks are in a row before you commit to that transaction.”

Daryn says it’s also incredibly important to pre-inspect commercial property as there are even less protections in place for a purchase.

He also says that it can be greatly beneficial for older residents looking to move into a retirement home to get some quality advice before any commitment is made.

“Every contract is a little bit different. We can go through the contract together and if there’s things you need to take into account we can put that in place,” he says.

Capon & Hubert, first floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6152 9203 or visit chsol.com.au

Dance for people aged 50+

JANE Ingall says she is one of four teaching artists who, as a collective, offer ZEST Dance for Wellbeing classes.

“ZEST Dance for Wellbeing offers movement classes for adults who want to keep their body and brain active and healthy, regardless of their mobility, skill or age,” she says.

“We start class sitting on chairs, with options to stand and travel in the second part of the class. No previous dance experience is necessary, and you don’t need a partner.

Jane says the classes are a great way to feed their body and spirit with music and movement, to have fun, meet new friends and feel good.

“Classes are enjoyable, social and communal, emphasising expression and creativity,” she says.

“We encourage laughter and support people to move in a way that works for how they are on that particular day.

“Our teaching artists create movement sequences inspired by a wide range of styles of dance and an eclectic selection of music – anything from Beethoven to Elvis, plus music from other cultures, and from musicals and movies.”

Jane says classes are held at various locations in the ACT including Belconnen and Tuggeranong Arts Centres, the COTA Hall, and the newest classes starting in Gungahlin in October.  

“Other classes are in some retirement villages and aged-care facilities and in the coming months, with funding from Community Services ACT, ZEST is conducting taster classes for the residents of a number of retirement villages.”

ZEST Dance for Wellbeing, call 0417 417182, or visit zestdwb.blogpost.com

Retirement village offers convenience

ADRIA Village combines access to important facilities with a feel of privacy, making it the perfect place for retirement, says CEO Stephanie Tyrrell.

“There’s close access to Cooleman Court and Woden Westfield, but we are surrounded by reserves and parklands making it a very peaceful atmosphere for residents,” she says.

Located in the heart of Weston Creek, Adria Village, which has two dedicated respite rooms and a special care unit, offers residential care for 42 residents. 

The village also contains 36 independent living units.

Stephanie says the village offers residents a wide range of things to do, and that they can get involved as little or as much as they’d like.

“We have an active residents’ committee who organise lots of get-togethers. Residents can play cards, go to morning teas and happy hours, enjoy exercise and much more,” she says.

Established in 1994 by volunteers of the Croatian community of Canberra and Queanbeyan, Stephanie also says the village is home to a greatly multicultural group of people.

“We have residents [from] Australia, Croatia, China, France, Macedonia, Hungary and more,” she says.

“There are great residents and great staff committed to the best outcomes for the community.”

Adria Village, 89 Fremantle Drive, Stirling. Call 6288 0198, email admin@adria.org.au or visit adria.org.au