Engaging older Aussies
A focus on mental health and engaging older Australians will be made at the end of this month as Social Inclusion Week 2012 is celebrated. Social Inclusion Week runs from 24 November to 2 December. The theme for the week is Collaborate, Connect and Celebrate and will engage older Australians.
A focus on mental health and engaging older Australians will be made at the end of this month as Social Inclusion Week 2012 is celebrated.
Social Inclusion Week runs from 24 November to 2 December. The theme for the week is Collaborate, Connect and Celebrate and will engage older Australians.
The week is about encouraging communities to reconnect and be inclusive of all cultures, age groups, nationalities and the disadvantaged.
It is a time to help Australians feel valued and to give people the opportunity to participate in society. It is about connecting with local communities, work mates, family and friends to build relationships and networks, addressing isolation and exclusion by supporting people who may be unable help themselves.
A University of Adelaide study last year looked at ways of reducing social isolation among the elderly. It was revealed social isolation was reportedly equivalent to the health effects of smoking 15 cigarettes a day or consuming more than six alcoholic drinks daily.
It is estimated 20% of older Australians are socially isolated, which results in insomnia, depression, a greater likelihood of developing dementia and elevated blood pressure, among other health problems.
For more information, ideas for events and to register your event go to the Social Inclusion Week website.
