NSW Benevolent Society aims to combat the ‘age drain’

The Benevolent Society, one of Australia’s oldest charities, believes it is imperative for the ageing services industry to assist older people to remain in their neighbourhood for as long as possible.

“All the research-based evidence shows that older people have a better quality of life, and are able to give more back to the community if they are able to stay in the home and area of their choice,” said the Society’s chief executive, Richard Spencer.

“They receive more care from friends and family when they are not forced to sell-up and/or move elsewhere because of housing pressures, lack of services and outdated accommodation facilities.

“Sadly, the trend is continuing to tilt towards enforced relocation to places outside the suburb or locale they have lived in for a long time and are most happy in. This age drain is in most cases not beneficial for the wellbeing of the people concerned or the social fabric of the community.”

Mr Spencer said a major objective of the Society’s proposed Apartments for Life project was aimed at seeing 95% of residents stay in their home until the end of life.

“It means older people stay in their local government area, close to family, friends and support services, and live in housing that is appropriate to their needs.”

Mr Spencer said comprehensive research undertaken by the Society underscored a preference for older people to maintain their independence in their own homes, and the driver to move to a nursing home or hostel was not necessarily based on choice but because there was no alternative.

“Those two pointers alone provide a strong case – indeed a necessity – for industry and all levels of government to be actively looking at new ways of dealing with a real problem area of an ageing population,” he said.

“The Benevolent Society has looked at initiatives undertaken overseas, and believes the Apartments for Life approach is a compelling alternative that can benefit the whole community.”