Understanding of ageing changing

Benetas research and innovation project manager, Jenny Davis, spoke about the research and the importance of a broader discussion and understanding of ageing in the community.

Ms Davis is one of the many researchers who attended an event to learn more about the project’s work and findings.

“This initiative adds to a growing awareness of the experience of older people and how different factors impact a positive experience of ageing. Our understanding of ageing is changing,” Ms Davis says.

There is a growing recognition that ageing will be far different for my generation as compared to that of my parents’ and their parents’ before them.

“Experiences of Ageing in Australia identified key issues relating to what impacts ageing for older people and provides a basis to build upon with further research.”

Ms Davis says this is an important aspect to foster greater collaboration amongst ageing’s research community.

Speaking about the translation of the research findings to work conducted at Benetas, Ms Davis says this will help inform future projects in the research space.

“This initiative outlined the importance of how different factors impact a positive or good sense of ageing and provides ‘food for thought.’

“We know there is a distinct difference in outcomes when you compare older people living independently or as part of a couple, as well as the impact of appropriate housing, health services and local communities.

“It’s huge having those insights available and something we can now build upon in the future.”

Experiences of Ageing in Australia was initiated by Healthdirect Australia and launched by the Assistant Minister for Social Services, Mitch Fifield.

Benetas provides aged care services for more than 4,000 older Victorians each year within its 13 residential care facilities and through its extensive community care programs. Benetas is dedicated to advocating on behalf of all older people and has an extensive Research and Advocacy Agenda.

A number of resources, including the research findings, are available online through the Healthtalk Australia website.