A vision for older Tasmanians
A Tasmanian strategy which will help support, value and develop opportunities for older residents as they age has been applauded by Minister for Human Services, Cassy O’Connor. Congratulating West Tamar Council for developing a comprehensive Positive Ageing Strategy, Ms O’Connor launched the initiative in Launceston over the weekend.
A Tasmanian strategy which will help support, value and develop opportunities for older residents as they age has been applauded by Minister for Human Services, Cassy O’Connor.
Congratulating West Tamar Council for its “vision and leadership” in developing a comprehensive Positive Ageing Strategy, Ms O’Connor launched the initiative in Launceston over the weekend and said positive ageing was about “recognising strengths and opportunities, and planning communities to make the most of them”.
Ms O’Connor said while there were many challenges associated with growing older, it also brought many opportunities and advantages when approached with a positive attitude.
“We’re all ageing, and our lifestyles, needs and priorities often change as we do,” she said.
“Older and wiser Tasmanians have so much to contribute to our community – socially, culturally, environmentally and economically.”
She added strategies similar to West Tamar Council’s was about “ensuring we have the infrastructure, facilities and awareness in place to allow older Tasmanians to keep participating and making a contribution”.
Comparing the strategy to those created by leaders such as the United Nations and World Health Organisation, Ms O’Connor said West Tamar Council was showing “real leadership in picking up that baton locally, and starting to actively plan for the needs and strengths of its older residents”.
“That’s fantastic to see, and I commend the council for its awareness and vision,” she added.
In Tasmania, 15% of the population is aged over 65 years, but with more than a third of Tasmanians currently aged over 50 years, the proportion of over-65s is expected to soar to 30% by 2040.
“Our ageing population poses big challenges for governments, especially in our provision of essential services like health and housing.
“But if we start rising to that challenge now, as the West Tamar Council is doing, our communities will benefit for generations to come,” she said.
