Make preparations to enjoy your senior years

Seniors can be in control of their lives in their later years and it should be a time of fulfilment and fun, not concern about financial and lifestyle issues, says Queensland community group, Older People Speak Out (OPSO).

OPSO is hosting a free community event to explain how best to prepare yourself for your senior years. The not-for-profit organisation have teamed up with three local businesses to give advice to people on how to combat social isolation, the best living options, access to mobility aids and maximising government assistance as they get older.

OPSO president, Val French, says while there are many retirement and investment information sessions around for older people, they are predominantly based on financial matters and ignore many other problems faced by seniors.

“Society tends to ignore the social and emotional issues which are the major problems in ageing, and to date there has not been an opportunity for a comprehensive overview of how to best deal with some of these topics,” Ms French says.

“This event will bring together some of the leading experts in the fields of positive ageing, accommodation, aids to assist in everyday living, and how to access government benefits. This is a must attend event for all seniors concerned about all the implications of ageing or anyone who has a family member entering aged care.”

The free community event is being presented at local supported living neighbourhood, Tall Trees in Tanah Merah on 8 June from 6pm. Tall Trees networking coordinator Barbara Clifford says the opportunity to work with well-regarded organisation OPSO is a real benefit to showcase the best in seniors living.

“The Tall Trees’ model is based on the concept of positive ageing in place, something which all the topics to be presented fully support,” Ms Clifford says.

“The philosophy is recognised as a beneficial way for seniors to make the transition from various stages in their lives without the physical and emotional disruptions of moving.”

The two-hour event will include representatives from OPSO discussing the topic of social isolation and reinforcing the rights of older people to make independent choices.

Beenleigh based Elan Medical Supplies will give an overview on mobility options available so seniors can stay in their home for as long as possible, and how to access these aids at reduced cost or even free.

Financial planning company Wealthcreate will explain strategies for retirees and their families seeking alternative retirement living including assisting with estate planning, maximising Centrelink payments and minimising tax liabilities.

Tall Trees will discuss what options are available for independent living in residential aged care.

For more information call Barbara Clifford at Tall Trees on 1300 304 413. Places are limited so pre-register to attend.