Social program combats isolation for Perth seniors
Social isolation and loneliness are bad for your health and can lead to serious health conditions. Some say it is as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
With the number of lone person households in Western Australia (WA) increasing, there’s a growing need to reduce the impact of loneliness on health.
A Perth social outings program is making a real difference.
Amana Living Kites, a social program run by WA care provider Amana Living, enables seniors to get out and enjoy life with like minded people, with the reassurance of support being on hand if needed.
The Spirkovski’s are a Perth family with experience of the impact loneliness can have on an older person.
Their mother, 66 year old Luba Spirkovski from Westminster, has suffered from cancer, diabetes and bipolar disorder.
Originally from Macedonia, English is her second language, so Mrs Spirkovski was dependent on her late husband and didn’t have many friends.
Her son Alex Spirkovski, explains: “My dad did everything for mum, so after his death, she went downhill. She wasn’t leaving the house and her health suffered.”
The family arranged for home care services from Amana Living to help their mum with the cleaning and then discovered Amana Living Kites.
Since taking part in the program for the past year, Mrs Spirkovski’s health and wellbeing have improved so much that she no longer needs home care visits.
Mr Spirkovski has been amazed at the change in his mum. “I honestly didn’t think Mum would go on an outing, but she did and now rarely misses a trip,” he says.
“She is much more confident since joining Amana Living Kites. It’s pushed her outside of her comfort zone and she’s met new people. It was a big step for her but she loves it.”
Ray Glickman, chief executive officer of Amana Living, says programs like Amana Living Kites are vital to help older people stay active and connected.
“Social isolation affects around 20 percent of older Australians, and really can stop people from living a fulfilling life as they age,” he says.
The Amana Living Kites program is Government funded to enable those living in the community to maintain health, wellbeing and social contact, and to give carers a period of respite.
For more information visit the Amana living website.
