In this feature CityNews speaks with the people and services passionate about improving the lives of Canberra’s older community.

According to a recent ABS study, Australia has the third longest life expectancy in the world, following Monaco and Japan.

With Australia’s ageing population comes the need for professionals to make those extra years comfier, supported and ensuring seniors look and feel their best.

 

Support, guidance and education for carers

With dementia diagnoses statistics rising, the number of family members and friends who are stepping up as carers is also going up.

“We know the prevalence of dementia is increasing,” says Carers ACT CEO Lisa Kelly.

“That’s why we offer support, guidance and education suited to all carers, regardless of their experience.

“Carers ACT provides a range of support for carers early on in their journey to ensure they feel equipped, feel supported, feel connected and get respite.

“We know support for our carers is important as it can be an incredibly isolating and challenging position to be in.”

Operating for more than 10 years, Lisa says Carers ACT is committed to providing support for the community.

“We are agile at adjusting our programs to suit different circumstances and needs,” she says.

“We want to be able to walk the journey alongside the carer and support them at every step of the way.”

Lisa’s biggest advice for carers is to reach out immediately.

“Reach out and get support straight away,” she says.

“Don’t wait until it’s overwhelming.”

Carers ACT will hold a free information session showcasing its wide range of services, 1pm-2.30pm, Wednesday, December 11 at its Holt centre.

Carers ACT, 2/80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt. Call the Carer Gateway Team on 1800 422737, or visit carersact.org.au

Pain support with a personal difference

Arthritis ACT is an allied health practice with a difference, says CEO Rebecca Davey.

There are physios, exercise physiologists and an occupational therapist available but, Rebecca says, they also have a team of peer workers, people with lived experience of the conditions they support people with.

“The issue with chronic conditions is often that until you’ve lived with it, you don’t have an innate understanding of what it is to walk that walk,” says Rebecca, who is very open with the community about her journey with inflammatory arthritis and the associated chronic pain.

“It’s often just the practical ideas that you can share, and you can honestly say: ‘This works for me, you might like to try it, or you might not.’

“Everyone that works in the health arena is passionate. It’s the reason why people choose these careers.

“I think the difference with us is that we have all the added extras to support the community, especially in terms of community education and linkages to a wide range of experiences within [the] team who are there to support clients that come to our service.”

With International Day of Persons with Disabilities coming up on December 3, Rebecca says it’s important that people know that disability can affect people of all ages and levels of ability, and argues it’s important to celebrate and recognise the different paths each person is on.

Arthritis ACT offers ongoing programs for people who need any type of support with their chronic pain or debilitating fatigue conditions.

Arthritis ACT, Pain Support & ME/CFS ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

Retirement village that’s the ‘perfect’ place to thrive

“The Grove Ngunnawal is the perfect destination to savour the finest retirement has to offer,” says Sarah Forbes, ACT senior development manager of Keyton

She says expansion works will “breathe new life into the area, incorporating 45 new two and three-bedroom premium villas”.

“This expansion will see the village grow from its current 161 to a 206-villa precinct including a co-located, 124-bed aged-care facility to be delivered by Arcare Aged Care,” she says.

The site will also include expansive greenery and welcoming spaces, including the restored historic homestead.

“This will add to the village’s impressive offering of existing leisure amenities,” says Sarah.

Amenities include a clubhouse complete with a library, gym, indoor heated swimming pool, village green and gardens, connected walking trails and more.

“New residents to the village will have access to The Grove’s existing program of wellbeing events that continues to expand,” she says.

“This ensures our residents experience the best of retirement living that includes a sense of connection, belonging and a vibrant environment that ensures residents thrive.”

The Grove Ngunnawal, 1 Monty Place, Ngunnawal ACT. Call 1800 550550 or visit visitthegrove.com.au

Kim’s dedicated to making life more accessible

With eight years of experience as a business owner and a further 20 years of renovation knowledge under her belt, Kim Perssons says it’s been a dream come true to turn her passion into a thriving business.

“We can help people who may wish to downsize, add extra support in and around a home and make their homes more accessible,” she says.

According to Kim, a house is 30 per cent more likely to sell when it has been styled.

“We’re here to help anyone wishing to downsize,” she says.

“We want to get our clients the most out of their sale and leave them with a little more in their pocket.

“We strategically renovate, using only trusted tradespeople to ensure there’s no over capitalisation involved.”

Kim’s goal is to ensure anyone, whether they’re looking to downsize and sell, or need a spruce up their residence to suit growing needs, have access to reliable and efficient renovating work.

“I have a great team behind me,” she says.

“We only use trusted tradespeople, and I have several of each trade to help me at each job.”

Services may include installing handrails, creating shower spaces large enough to suit a chair and widening entryways.

“It’s about preparing for those situations,” says Kim.

“That’s what I’m there to do.”

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

Denture professionals at the cutting edge

Fringe Dentures is a direct-to-the-public denture clinic that makes and fits dentures and mouthguards, and also other services such as repairs, and realigning.

“We’re embracing new technology to make sure we get the best service and quality of work, and a better customer experience,” says owner Terry McHugh.

“We’ve transitioned to digital denture and mouthguard manufacturing, which has revolutionised our processes.

“We were doing high-quality work before, and we’re doing even higher-quality work now because of the new technology that we’re using.”

Terry says that the business has expanded to include another clinic in Hawker, as well as regional centres in Jindabyne, Gundagai and Young.

“We’re still servicing the industry, including many partner dentists,” says Terry.

He says services can be claimed through health funds and they accept DVA cards.

“The most important thing, and the most enjoyable thing, is seeing happy customers walking out with their new dentures,” he says.

“If you’re happy, we’re happy.”

Fringe Dentures, 3/24 Iron Knob Street, Fyshwick. Call 6239 2534 or visit fringedentures.com.au

Working together to make retirement work

David Luke Retirement Planning specialises in advising those coming up to, or already in retirement, says director David Luke.

“I can help maximise your Centrelink entitlement, minimise tax exposure, set up income streams and offer investment advice and implementation,” he says.

“I have been a financial planner in Canberra and surrounding regions for 23 years, exclusively advising on retirement,” he says, and has run his own business for the last five years.

David says financial rules are daunting when you look at them for the first time.

“I can lead you through the process of the ATO, Centrelink, and investment markets, to make them work for you and achieve the retirement you want,” he says.

“You don’t need any prior knowledge with the rules or with financial planning, just an idea of what you want to achieve.”

He says he will break down the issues so you understand how it all fits together.

“I have no relationship with any product providers – I am on your side and I’m a one-person operation so you will always deal directly with me,” says David.

“I’m more than happy to visit you at home, after hours or on weekends.

“Don’t let the complexity of the system make you think it’s all too hard. Make it work for you instead.”

David Luke Retirement Planning, Level 1, 33 Allara Street, Canberra City. Call 0404 857242, or visit davidlukeplanning.com.au

Big year as Goodwin celebrates 70 years of service

This was a significant year for Goodwin Aged Care Services, as the organisation celebrated its 70th anniversary.

“This year of Goodwin’s 70th anniversary has provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our past, present and future,” says Goodwin Aged Care Services CEO, Stephen Holmes.

“We’ve celebrated milestones, welcomed new communities, and continued our commitment to delivering exceptional care and services.

“With a rich history of providing quality care and accommodation to seniors, Goodwin continues to innovate and expand its services.”

Throughout the year, Goodwin achieved several key milestones.

“We commemorated our 70th anniversary, reflecting on its journey and our future aspirations,” says Stephen.

“We also expanded our home care services to deliver 150,000 hours of home care to over 1200 clients, enabling seniors to age in place with dignity and independence.

“We welcomed Goodwin Village Araluen to the Goodwin family and acknowledged the dedication of our 780 employees and volunteers who play a crucial role in delivering exceptional care.”

Looking onwards, Stephen says Goodwin remains committed to its vision of providing quality of life and opportunities for seniors to thrive.

“By investing in innovative care approaches, expanding services, and fostering strong community connections, Goodwin aims to continue making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in the ACT and NSW,” he says.

“We are a care-based, people-centred, community organisation.”

Goodwin Aged Care Services. Call 6175 5100 or visit ​​goodwin.org.au

Seniors Centre builds connection through activities

Operating since 1965, the Canberra Seniors Centre in Turner provides activities, health exercises, social connection and artistic expression in its services for the over 50s in Canberra.

“We provide social connection and promote healthy aging,” says CEO Andrea Dean.

Serving the community for almost 60 years, Andrea says the centre’s classes are tailored to meet the needs of its members.

“Our classes evolve according to our members,” she says.

“Currently, our members are really enjoying mahjong and singing classes as well as porcelain painting and exercise.”

Each year, Andrea says the organisation holds a survey to collect feedback on services, ensuring the classes offered are of benefit and interest to its members.

“We pride ourselves on our hospitality,” she says.

Andrea says classes, costing between $7 and $12, are priced to encourage anyone to join in.

“Each class develops its own character and the participants often get quite close, celebrating life events together.”

“I’m really proud of the culture here and know that whoever joins will be welcomed by all regardless of their background, age or levels of experience.

“It’s a lovely experience of connection.”

Andrea says the centre is on the lookout for keen crafters to join its free craft group, operating daily.

“The New Year is a great time for interested parties to come along and try something new,” she says.

Canberra Seniors Centre, 10 Watson Street, Turner. Call 6248 9509 or visit canberraseniors.org.au

 

Technology that looks at the ‘whole you’

Precision Health 360 “looks at the whole you” by combining 20 years of ongoing scientific research with technology programs.

“Precision Health 360 is a platform that combines personal training with advanced science by using anthropometry to keep your mind and body in its ideal natural state,” says BoomerAABS owner, Duncan Craig.

Becoming a personal trainer in 2017, Duncan first learnt about the advanced technology in March, quickly becoming qualified and bringing the technology to Canberra.

“It’s a relatively new platform,” says Duncan.

“There are 120 countries across the world using this technology.”

Duncan is passionate about fitness in seniors, providing group fitness training, strength for life sessions and individual coaching.

Now, Duncan says, he is excited to start providing a precise way to show scientific results that help the overall wellbeing of his clients.

“It shows a deeper view on what we should eat and when we should exercise at what points of the day,” he says.

“The technology takes regular measurements each week to give advice to suit your changing lifestyle and body needs.

“For example, it might tell you to exercise in the afternoon as opposed to the morning to suit your metabolic needs etcetera.”

Duncan works across Canberra and is looking forward to providing precise results for his client’s wellbeing to ensure they are living their best lives.

BoomerAABS, call Duncan on 0404 373157, visit boomeraabs.com.au or email info@boomeraabs.com.au

Dr Vass offers life-changing hearing help

Getting help with hearing loss is all about improving communication and gaining clarity, says Dr Vass Hearing Clinic principal Dr William Vass.

Offering professional, independent advice and treatment, Dr Vass says taking the first step with a hearing test can be life-changing.

“We know hearing loss can be linked to anxiety, isolation, anger, relationship issues, work issues and miscommunication in general,” he says.

“After treatment or rehabilitation patients can find it a lot easier to get along with people, don’t have to guess so much and are much more confident in their communication skills, especially with their partner.”

While hearing loss can come with ageing, Dr Vass says it can also often affect young people, too.

“Those exposed to loud noises in military and construction fields can experience hearing loss. Some people might be genetically exposed to hearing loss or there could be viral infections,” he says.

“It’s very important to act early. Waiting too long can start to see a disconnect between the brain and the ear.

“We find that those people who put off getting help with their hearing loss for long periods don’t have as successful outcomes as those who seek help earlier.”

Dr Vass says patients have the certainty that they’ll be seeing him when they visit the clinic and that he will provide one-on-one, tailored care and advice.

“It’s rewarding to help people not be so isolated, and help improve their communication with others, especially their loved ones,” he says.

Dr Vass Hearing Clinic, suite 14, John James Medical Centre, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Visit drvasshearing.com.au or call 6282 2717.

Association in touch with retirement village issues

The ACT Retirement Village Residents Association (ACT RVRA) exists to inform and educate about the regulatory framework relating to retirement villages.

It provides information to residents and prospective residents of retirement villages, and generally aims to advance and protect the interests of residents, says president, Janine Lewis.

“We do this through providing information on our website, regular emails to our members and holding forums where we invite speakers who have deep expertise in matters relating to retirement villages,” she says.

According to Janine, ACT RVRA works closely with the Council on the Ageing ACT (COTA ACT) along with fellow colleagues in its sister RVRA associations across the country to stay informed about current retirement issues.

“We have a close working relationship with Karen Toohey, the Discrimination, Health Services, Disability and Community Services Commissioner, which enables us to raise with her issues of concern to residents and to refer disputes to her to try to resolve,” says Janine.

“We also liaise with the Retirement Living Council, who represents many village operators, to discuss current retirement village issues, make representations to them where necessary and generally to keep the lines of communication with them open.”

Janine urges members to call or email with any questions or queries.

ACT Retirement Village Residents Association. Email on enquiries@actrvra.org.au, call on 6179 6003 or visit actrvra.org.au

Support at home services provided locally, by locals

Community Services #1 has been delivering a wide range of services across Canberra since 1987, says Juliette Spurrett, executive director of Aged Care Services.

“An important part of our service is offering a variety of aged-care services including Home Care Packages,” she says.

“If you have a Home Care Package and are looking for a more personal and transparent experience – you might consider contacting Community Services #1.”

Juliette says being based in Canberra gives Community Services #1 the distinct advantage of being able to provide a responsive and accessible service to people in the greater ACT area.

“One of the great benefits of providing a local service is that it gives our clients confidence with their support at home knowing that the people providing the support live right here in the local community,” she says.

Juliette says the team at Community Services #1 is dedicated to ensuring clients receive a more individualised experience, and that one of the key aims is to always ensure our clients feel and are confident with their support at home services.

“If you would like to know more, please reach out to one of our team members to find out how Community Services #1 can deliver an improved level of service,” says Juliette.

Community Services #1, 63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah. Call 02 6126 4700, or visit communityservices1.org

Supporting diabetics through cost of living crisis

According to new data from Diabetes Australia, more than 90 per cent of people living with diabetes are anxious about the rising cost of living, and 75 per cent are worried that managing their diabetes will become unaffordable in the future.

Diabetes Australia is a national peak body to support people who are at risk of or living with diabetes.

“Diabetes Australia has been proudly supporting the community for decades and now, as pressure increases on people, our support is increasing, too,” says general manager health service operations in NSW and ACT, Natalie Smith.

“Worryingly, half of survey respondents said cost-of-living pressures were negatively impacting their ability to manage their diabetes, which includes attending GP appointments, undertaking pathology tests and purchasing syringes to administer insulin.

“We know that age is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, so seniors are disproportionately affected, compared to the rest of the population.

“We want a future where diabetes can do no harm and we are committed to supporting local communities impacted by diabetes.

“We recently launched Diabetes YOUnited – a free national membership program to provide trusted support and information.

“Everyone who joins the free service will have access to up-to-date information and education tools, personalised support, regular news and updates with expert insights and resources, as well as better connection  and support from Australia’s largest diabetes community.”

Diabetes Australia, 19 Moore Street, Turner. Visit diabetesaustralia.com.au or call 1800 177055.

Planning ahead provides a sense of relief

“It is important to seek professional estate planning help in order to be clear about what you want – where you want your assets to go,” says director and founding partner of Capon and Hubert, Ken Hubert.

“Your initial thoughts on this subject may not take into account contingencies which may occur.

“It is so important to ensure that the wealth you worked for goes to the people you want to inherit.”

Ken says at Capon and Hubert, they always work through the client’s initial plans and thoughts, and ask questions to determine a clear path forward should different scenarios occur.

“Many people who come to us have thought about making a will and feel a sense of relief once this is completed,” he says.

“We also find that people who have been asked to be an executor have a much easier role when the will they are responsible for is clear, well thought out and has considered different scenarios.”

Life can produce circumstances where initial plans may not be possible, says Ken, and clear details of intent for assets is necessary.

“A will greatly assists anyone who may be dealing with an estate for the first time and may be unsure how to proceed and the steps which must be taken to administer an estate,” he says.

“Having a will is caring for those who may need to carry out your wishes at a challenging and difficult time.”

Capon & Hubert Lawyers & Mediators, First Floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6152 9203 or visit
chsol.com.au

Mobile eye care from the comfort of home

Most people rate their sight as their most precious sense, and about 80 per cent of the information we receive from the outside world comes through our eyes, says Shane Brookman, founder of the mobile optometry service, Angel Eyecare.

“This means that your eyes are the best camera you’ll ever own,” he says.

“If our health is our wealth, then sight is worth more than gold.”

Shane says 90 per cent of blindness is avoidable if detected early, which is why regular eye care is so important.

With Angel Eyecare being fully mobile, Shane says they are able to bring the gift of sight right to the patient’s doorstep, so they can see better without having to leave the home.

“Our mission is to deliver an essential sight-saving mobile service to those who need it most,” he says.

“Making a difference by helping people see better is what gets us out of bed every morning.”

Angel Eyecare. Email hello@angeleyecare.com.au or visit angeleyecare.com.au to schedule an appointment.

Stepping confidently on to the dance floor

Dancing is a great way to increase movement, and the best part is that it doesn’t even feel like exercising, says Dale Harris, owner of Dale’s Ballroom Dancing.

It is also a great way to get out and be social, she says, which makes it a great hobby for older Canberrans.

Dale is an expert in many styles of dance, including tango, foxtrot, quickstep, Viennese waltz, cha cha, samba, jive, rumba and paso doble, and has more than 25 years’ experience teaching dance.

The seven-week dance course for adults is open again, and Dale encourages anyone to come and learn, regardless of age or experience.

“We have people of all ages coming in for the classes,” she says, with adult classes on Wednesdays, starting at 7pm.

She says classes cover Latin, New Vogue and standard dances.

They also offer private classes by appointment, which Dale says are a great option for those who may be a little timid about dancing in front of others.

“We can accommodate choreographing a dance for your own routine, to the music you have chosen,” she says.

Dale’s Ballroom Dancing, 6/38 Reed Street North, Greenway. Call 0407 066110 or visit dalesballroomdancing.com