The Retirement Living Council (RLC) is calling on governments across Australia to prioritise age-friendly housing in response to the country’s ageing population.The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) recently released its regional population data for 2023, finding:7% of the population in Australia's capital cities is aged over 75.9.4% of the population outside capital cities is aged over 75.Over 55s represent 26% of the population in capital cities.Over 55s make up 34% of the population outside these cities.RLC Executive Director Daniel Gannon says the data underscores the urgent need for all three levels of government to tackle the challenges of housing an ageing population.“We have known about our ageing population for a long time now, but governments seem flat-footed in their response to accommodating and caring for this growing cohort of older Australians,” Mr Gannon said.“Over the next two decades, the number of Australians over 75 will increase by 85 per cent, which will have significant socio-economic impacts on the nation.”Given the demographic trends, Mr Gannon emphasised the need for age-friendly housing solutions to address a problem that is only set to escalate. He called on governments to better appreciate the benefits of increasing age-friendly housing supply. “Hospital beds are already full, ambulances are ramping in most capital cities, aged care facilities are at capacity, and most retirement villages have lengthy waiting lists,” he says.Mr Gannon warned the situation will only worsen with the expected addition of 1.7 million Australians over 75 within the next 15 years.“Governments should be throwing the kitchen sink at unleashing more retirement villages given they are proven to keep people healthier and happier for longer," he says.Statistics show that retirement village residents are “41 per cent happier, 20 per cent less likely to require hospitalisation after only nine months, 15 per cent more physically active, five times more socially active, twice as likely to catch up with family or friends and have reduced levels of depression and loneliness”, according to Mr Gannon.As a result, these communities are reducing older Australians' interactions with GPs and hospitals, while also delaying entry into taxpayer-funded aged care, saving the government $945 million annually. “The added bonus is that when older Australians ‘rightsize’ into a retirement village, it frees up important supply in the housing market for young couples and families,” says Mr Gannon.

Dementia rates in Illawarra and Shoalhaven are projected to surge by 55 percent by 2054, exceeding the national average by four percentage points because of its older demographic. Despite this, those affected by dementia and their families often face a significant lack of support to manage life post-diagnosis.To address this gap, Berry has been chosen by leading dementia care provider Group Homes Australia to host the first free, government-funded regional Rementia Together Retreat from August 19 to 23, 2024. This retreat aims to provide transformative support for both individuals living with dementia and their chosen 'support partners' (loved ones). It is designed to equip them with the emotional, psychological, and mental tools necessary to understand the diagnosis and live well with dementia.This regional retreat follows a series of successful Sydney-based Rementia Together Retreats, which have profoundly impacted lives through education, community building, and enhanced understanding.Group Homes Australia’s Founder and Executive Director, Tamar Krebs, co-designed this unique retreat with dementia experts Dr. Meredith Gresham and Jackie Pool. The program is based on the concept of ‘rementia,’ a term that shifts the focus from ‘dementia’ (Latin for ‘away from the mind’) to ‘rementia’ (Latin for ‘return to the mind’). The Rementia Together Retreat is revolutionary in its approach to post-diagnostic care, promoting a return to purpose and meaning for those affected by dementia.Krebs explained, “In just 30 years, the number of people living with dementia in this region is expected to more than double. For every person with dementia, there is almost always a support partner who also needs help. We aim to assist both individuals in living beyond their diagnosis and reclaiming their sense of purpose and relevance. Our retreat leaders help participants reconnect with their sense of self, facilitating rementia.”Catherine, 57, who lives with dementia, attended a previous retreat with her husband and support partner, Steve. She described the experience as transformative: “Getting a dementia diagnosis can be really difficult. But when you have the right people around you, it changes everything. That’s exactly what the Rementia Together Retreat did. It brought me a whole community of people going through what I’m going through, and Steve was by my side every step of the way.”Steve added, “It’s hard to put into words something as meaningful as the Rementia Together Retreat. Catherine and I did our research on dementia beforehand, but it felt like our eyes were truly opened at the retreat. We learned so much, and we could do it together. It completely transformed our perspective on dementia, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone newly diagnosed and their support partners.”Donna Ward, Program Director at Group Homes Australia, leads the program. Having experienced the challenges of her own mother's dementia diagnosis without early support, Ward underscores the retreat's value: “For most of us, a dementia diagnosis is terrifying for both the individual and their loved ones. The Rementia Together Retreat is specifically designed to overcome this fear. It provides lasting change in how both parties understand dementia, flipping the script and channeling fear into empowerment.”The Rementia Together Retreat is fully funded by the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care.Residents with a recent dementia diagnosis and their support partners from Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Sutherland, Southern Highlands, and nearby regions are encouraged to register their interest by June 30 at www.grouphomes.com.au/5-day-retreat or by calling 1300 015 406.

The Seniors’ Stories writing competition 2024 is back, offering an exciting opportunity for seniors to express their creativity through storytelling. The 2024 edition of the competition is now officially open, and this year’s theme is “What Made Me”. In addition to being published, the top 100 authors will have the chance to see their stories in their native language, or a language spoken other than English. This year’s competition runs between 21 April and 2 June. The competition was introduced by NSW Seniors Card in 2013 and celebrates the lives and contributions of seniors by giving them a platform to share their stories about their life experiences. Each year, the top 100 stories are published and distributed to the authors and libraries across NSW, illustrating the substantial contributions made by our older generations. This competition not only recognises and values these experiences of NSW seniors but also aims to connect young and old alike, through sharing and storytelling. The writing competition emphasises the importance of ensuring seniors continue to receive opportunities to participate in their communities and impart their knowledge and wisdom to others. Don’t miss this opportunity. To check out previous winners or for more information you can visit the NSW Seniors Stories website.

On Wednesday, 10 April, Kiama Community Radio hosted a senior’s high tea at the Kiama Leagues Club. The event brought together local seniors in the Kiama district for a lovely afternoon of good food, connection, and vintage music. Among the distinguished guests was Mayor Neil Reilly, back at the helm, and MP for Kiama Gareth Ward. In his address, the Mayor took a moment to express his gratitude for the opportunity to spend time with the seniors of our community, as well as the efforts of both Kiama Community Radio and The Bugle as direct outlets for community news and stories.Helen, Julieanne, Elaine, Gail, Mila, Kathy and Kathleen enjoying the festivitiesDeclaring the high tea officially open, Mayor Reilly reflected on his love for community radio and its important role in our tight-knit community. Gordon Bell & John Larkins (Kiama Lions President) catching up over high teaOne of the attendees, Gordon Bell, said he was grateful to have heard about the event from the last edition of The Bugle newspaper. We advertise events just such as this in print and on our What’s On page online, updated frequently.   The event was organised to celebrate the seniors in our community and get them connected to Kiama Community Radio. There was a raffle with some generously donated prizes to be won: A $50 voucher from Burnett’s on Barney, supplied by the owners of Edessa arcade with a bottle of champagne, and also a $200 voucher donated from The Sebel Kiama.Madeleine & FranEvents such as these are a wonderful demonstration of the generous nature of the community in Kiama and thanks are owed to the owners of Edessa Arcade and The Sebel Kiama for donating the raffle prizes. The initiative for the event was $1400 in funding from the small events grants programme from Kiama Council. Kerrie, Gabi & Bernie - movers and shakers in KCRAdditionally, The Kiama Leagues Club not only provided the event space but also the t-shirts worn by KCR volunteers during the afternoon. The high tea delicacies were sourced from Cakes on Collins, Bakers Delight and Woolworths. Overall, the high tea was a resounding success, underscoring the importance of honouring the contributions of Kiama’s seniors. With events like these, the spirit of togetherness and appreciation continues to thrive within the community.  Hopefully more of our community will tune into the fabulous programmes offered on Kiama Community Radio. You can access their music directly from The Bugle app also.

In Kiama LGA, the Lions Club is more than just a group of volunteers flipping sausages or collecting bottles and cans. They're a vibrant community making waves of difference in people's lives, all while having a blast doing it."We just don't work hard turning sausages," says a proud member of the Kiama Lions Club. "We have fun and make a real impact on people's lives."The ethos of the Kiama Lions is about turning ripples into waves, with each member contributing to strengthening both themselves and the community at large. From assisting local charities to supporting global initiatives like childhood cancer research and hunger relief efforts, the Lions leave no stone unturned in their quest to make the world a better place.But they don't do it alone. The Lions Club is supported by numerous businesses and individuals within the town who share their passion for service and giving back. And they're always on the lookout for more hands and hearts to join their cause."You too could jump puddles and see the ripple you make turn into waves," encourages another enthusiastic member. "Whether you're a business looking to contribute or an individual wanting to make a difference, there's a place for you in our club."Becoming a member of the Kiama Lions Club isn't just about service; it's about forming lifelong friendships and experiencing the joy of seeing countless smiling faces at their events and initiatives."Join us," urges Bobbie English, the club's contact person. "You'll never know the joy until you give it a go. Reach out to us at 0455043043 or email [email protected] to start your journey with us today."In Kiama, the Lions Club isn't just an organisation; it's a beacon of hope, community, and endless possibilities.

From March 11 to March 24, 2024, the annual NSW Seniors Festival, in its 66th year, has been taking place across the state. Organised by the Department of Communities & Justice, this event aims to honour the contributions of seniors to the community. With various activities like art, sports, music, recreation, and health, the festival has provided opportunities for seniors to engage, connect, and celebrate.The festival included both in-person and online events, making it accessible to all seniors, including those in aged care or at home. The theme for the 2024 festival was "Reach Beyond," encouraging seniors to strive for personal growth and new experiences. The local festival program, spearheaded by the Kiama Municipal Council, offered numerous events and workshops, mostly free or discounted, aimed at promoting social interaction, learning, and well-being among seniors.Cr Neil Reilly, Mayor of Kiama Municipal Council, emphasised the theme's importance, encouraging seniors to overcome age-related limitations and embrace opportunities for growth and connection. Activities like rock'n'roll, hearing tests, choir sessions, movie screenings, and workshops provided avenues for seniors to explore new interests and engage with their communities.The NSW Seniors Festival 2024 serves as a platform for seniors to continue their journey of personal development, fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and celebration of life's milestones within the community.  Hopefully everyone had a chance to connect with some of the events on offer. Send in your photos from this Seniors Festival to [email protected] and you may be featured on our social media pages

In a bid to alleviate financial burdens and enhance the quality of life for seniors, the New South Wales (NSW) Government has unveiled a comprehensive online platform tailored specifically for individuals aged 65 and above. Launched on the official NSW government website, the new Seniors hub serves as a centralised repository of information, offering invaluable resources to help seniors manage their expenses and navigate various life events. With statistics indicating that one in six NSW residents falls into the senior demographic, and the majority relying on government pensions or allowances as their primary income source, the need for targeted assistance is evident. The Seniors hub aims to address this need by providing a one-stop destination for accessing financial support, including links to over 10 NSW Government resources. Among these resources is the Senior Cards Discounts and Deal map, which showcases participating retailers offering discounts and benefits exclusively for seniors. Beyond financial assistance, the Seniors hub covers a wide array of topics pertinent to seniors' lives, such as managing finances, preparing for emergencies, maintaining health, understanding transportation regulations, exploring housing and care options, and managing life events like wills and powers of attorney. Following the success of the NSW Government's Seniors Festival 2024, the launch of the Seniors hub underscores a commitment to providing year-round support and guidance to older residents across the state. Moreover, the platform's accessibility features ensure that it caters to users of all digital literacy levels, with multilingual support available to accommodate the diverse linguistic backgrounds of seniors in NSW. Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib, emphasises the importance of the Seniors hub in assisting individuals grappling with cost-of-living pressures, while Minister for Seniors, Jodie Harrison, applauds the platform for its convenience and inclusivity. Mark Higgs, the NSW Government Digital Channels Executive Director, highlights the OneCX Program's role in simplifying access to essential information and services, emphasising the Seniors hub's consolidation of resources from various government initiatives. With the unveiling of this online resource, the NSW Government reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive society where seniors can age with dignity and access the support they need to thrive. To explore the Seniors hub and its wealth of resources, seniors and their caregivers can visit www.nsw.gov.au/community-services/seniors.

The Parkinson's Dance Exercise Class, held at the Masonic Hall in Collins St every Friday from 10:00 to 11:00, is not just a routine exercise session. Led by the experienced dance instructor Doug Newton from Wollongong Dance World, this class is a new way for seniors to navigate the challenges of Parkinson's disease. In a journey that can often feel isolating and daunting, this class offers more than just physical activity; it provides a therapeutic escape through the sheer joy of dance. With a nominal fee of $10 for participation, all one needs to bring are their dancing shoes and an eagerness to learn.Doug Newton, a senior himself, understands the limitations faced by older individuals, especially those with neurological conditions. His expertise coupled with a selection of groovy tunes that instantly incites movement, creates an environment where participants feel the urge to dance, making exercise not just beneficial but enjoyable.Dancing Doug NewtonDance therapy has long been recognised as a powerful tool in managing Parkinson's disease. Recent studies have shown that dance interventions can significantly enhance motor function, including stretching, stepping, and balance. Participants in dance programs have demonstrated improvements, notably in balance, compared to those in regular exercise groups. These improvements are attributed to the nature of dance, which involves repetition, direction changes, and step sequencing, all of which translate into effective gait patterns. Moreover, the rhythmic movements in dance activate the basal ganglia, a section of the brain crucial for motor control, and are enhanced by the auditory cues present in music, aiding coordination and movement.The significance of dance therapy goes beyond its physical benefits. Dance has been an integral part of human culture since ancient times, serving as a form of self-expression, communication, and communal celebration. Indigenous peoples of Australasia have long practised dance as a healing art, recognising its therapeutic potential. In the 20th century, dance therapy emerged as a formal practice, emphasising the interconnectedness of mind and body. In Australia, the development of dance therapy owes much to the pioneering efforts of figures like Hanny Exiner, a dancer and educator, who laid the foundation for the profession in the 1970s.The Parkinson's Dance Exercise Class in Kiama offers a holistic approach to managing Parkinson's disease. Beyond the physical benefits, participants find joy, camaraderie, and a sense of liberation through movement. As the class continues to thrive, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of dance therapy in enhancing the lives of individuals living with Parkinson's disease. 

The Retirement Living Council (RLC) is urging the Australian government to draw on the power of retirement communities by reimagining how it funds and delivers home care services to older Australians.In its submission to the government ahead of the May Budget, the RLC is calling for the introduction of a ‘Shared Care’ framework, which would see retirement living communities funded to provide home care services directly to residents living in their villages. RLC Executive Director Daniel Gannon said retirement living communities are “perfectly placed” to help provide home care services to support their residents to live healthy, independent lives for longer.“With the number of Australians over the age of 75 set to grow by 70 per cent by 2040, it’s not possible to talk about the future of care and the demand for these services without considering the important housing and health value proposition of the retirement living industry,” Mr Gannon said.“The reality is that hundreds of thousands of Aussies call a retirement community home, and the policy approach to home care should reflect that.“We can’t address the aged care crisis by simply throwing more and more tax dollars at it, and the privately funded retirement living sector is ready and willing to play its part.“Retirement communities can deliver better outcomes, experiences and value for older Australians accessing care – and there are benefits for government too.“More than one million Australians currently utilise home care services, ranging from transport to personal care.“Some of these people are waiting for up to a year to access home care funding, and sadly a third of this funding is lost to administration fees before it can be used,” he said.Mr Gannon said the RLC has prepared a new framework – Shared Care – to deliver greater efficiencies for consumers, government, and care providers.“This report paves a path for government to make the delivery of home care almost 20 per cent more efficient, meaning that older Australians would receive more care per dollar invested,” Mr Gannon said.“These efficiencies would ultimately save the commonwealth up to $100 million per year, which is a win-win for consumers and government alike.“This ‘shared care’ approach would provide three models for retirement village operators to deliver community-based care services under the Support at Home program within the village setting, either independently or through a delivery partner.“These models have been developed to show that significant efficiencies and savings to consumers and government can be achieved, even at moderate levels of uptake, with no cost to government.“This is because retirement villages provide scale for delivering these services efficiently and cost effectively by reducing travel costs incurred by service providers, increasing the frequency of service delivery, and enhancing the quality and suite of services by leveraging those already in place at these communities,” he said.View the RLC’s full Federal Budget submission here.

Do you know a senior resident of the Kiama LGA who deserves to be recognised for their contributions to the community? Then what better way to honour them than by nominating them for the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards.Winners will be announced at the annual festival, which takes place from 11 - 24 March this year, with events in Sydney around the International Convention & Exhibit Centre at Darling Harbour.NSW Member for Kiama Gareth Ward encouraged Kiama residents to nominate someone from the community, with nominations closing 12 March 2024.“If you know a local senior in the Kiama electorate who helps make our local community great, inspiring and active, then I encourage you to nominate them for official acknowledgement of their distinguished contribution and volunteering efforts,” said Ward.“This annual festival is about celebrating the positive impact of older people in our families and society.”“Nominations are now open for the awards program, one of many initiatives the NSW Government promotes to support the state’s seniors living happy, healthy, and active lives.You can nominate someone from the NSW Seniors Festival website, or by picking up a form from Gareth Ward’s office on Terralong Street, Kiama.The theme for this year’s festival is “Reach Beyond”.

Dementia Australia’s Ask Annie app has expanded its reach to support workers in delivering aged and dementia care. The app was previously tailored for aged and community care professionals, and is now freely accessible to all aged care workers, providing new and essential resources to enhance the quality of care provided to residents living with dementia.The expansion includes a specialised program for residential aged care with four additional modules and 19 new lessons featuring real-world scenarios for practical learning. The app is accessible 24/7 to best provide support planning to focus on best practices and empathetic care delivery. It was first released in June 2021 and has since received over 20,000 downloads with 11,200 active users. It boasts a user-friendly interface that ensures aged carers can access solutions-based thinking and practical advice. Dr. David Sykes, the Director of the Center for Dementia Learning highlighted the importance of supporting aged care workers with relevant training describing Ask Annie as a ‘pocket coach’ for practical guidelines. Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia and the more than 1.5 million people involved in their care. Ask Annie is free to download from your app store. For more information you can visit this website or call 1300 DEMENTIA (1300 336 368).

Locals were invited to participate in a Dementia Community Education session early December at the Uniting Church Hall in Gerringong. This event was being by the "Dementia Inclusive Kiama Project" which seeks to provide comprehensive awareness and understanding of dementia. This session was especially valuable for those seeking insights into supporting individuals living with dementia.  The education session, designed and delivered by people living with and alongside dementia, is a key component of the ongoing "Dementia Inclusive Kiama Project." Despite challenges, the project, in collaboration with the University of Wollongong, Dementia Australia, and until earlier this year Kiama Council, has been making significant strides since September 2014. It has a rich history of success and manages to continue despite Council pulling out of the project at the end of the last financial year.  The project was initially founded on research activities led by A/Prof Lyn Phillipson from the University of Wollongong. The research sought to identify features in the physical, social, and service environments affecting the experiences of people living with dementia in Kiama. Notably, the project has received two national and one international award for its impactful work in raising awareness and advocating for the rights of people living with dementia. Research activities included interviews and mapping activities with local people with dementia and their supporters and participating in the development and testing of an audit tool to assess spaces in Kiama. A survey of 123 local community members about their knowledge of and attitudes towards dementia was conducted, along with a survey of 22 organisations that service people living with dementia in Kiama.  These activities helped to identify features of the physical, social and service environments which help or hinder the experiences of people living with dementia. The surveys found that most (74 per cent) knew someone with dementia and the vast majority (91 per cent) were happy to spend time or have a conversation with a person with dementia. Despite this, only around half (51 per cent) considered themselves to have a good understanding about the condition. Some people had low expectations of interactions with people with dementia, for example over 30 per cent agreed that complex and interesting conversation could not be expected from most people with dementia. The project's Dementia Alliance and the Dementia Advisory Group (DAGS), have been instrumental in implementing a Kiama Dementia Action Plan. The Alliance, comprising individuals and stakeholders, is responsible for developing and executing dementia-friendly activities, while DAGS, exclusively composed of people with dementia and their supporters, oversees and develops additional activities. Nick Guggisberg, helping to organise the education sessions, brings a long history and extensive experience in community development to the project and a personal connection to the project, with family members who have/are living with dementia.  Dennis Frost, who presented at the forum, shared his personal journey with frontotemporal dementia highlighting the misconception surrounding the condition, emphasising that having dementia can be liberating and doesn't necessarily equate to immediate incapacity. The education sessions, delivered by people with dementia and their care partners, addressed not only the symptoms but also the social implications and stigma associated with the condition. Dennis recalls feeling happy when he received his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia 10 years ago, at age 59. “I finally had an explanation for things that were occurring” he says. He adds that his son’s reaction was one of concern; to him his father had just been given a terminal illness. Dennis says, “the path of dementia is not what society sometimes has us believe”, and his son’s somewhat understandable expectation “that I would wind up incapable of anything very quickly”, changed with time.Rock musician Veda Meneghetti grapples with a rare form of dementia, impairing speech, reading, and comprehension. In a compelling testament to the urgent need for reform in aged care, her devoted carer, Lynda Henderson, played a pivotal role by providing vital insights to the Royal Commission. This underscores the pressing importance of advocacy to address the challenges within the aged care system, particularly as it relates to dementia.This education session is delivered by and for people with dementia and their care partners. It is community work from the ground up. They address the symptoms of living with dementia and the social implications and stigmas such as referring to people living with dementia as "sufferers or dementia people" that often go with it. People tend to withdraw away from people living with dementia. This shunning causes isolation which is opposite to their need to participate in community and live a higher quality of life.  For further information on this subject please visit www.dementia.org.au

If you’re feeling the cost-of-living pinch right now, these ten independent organisations offer discounts on a huge range of goods and services. Cashback when you shop:  Cashrewards: www.cashrewards.com.au  App form: RetailMeNot (coupons, promo codes and cashback)Almost everything: (homewares, clothes, furniture, electronics, appliances…):   Catch: www.catch.com.au  Groupon: www.groupon.com.au Honey: www.joinhoney.com (discount codes) Temu:  www.temu.com Travel/flights:  Cudo: www.cudo.com.au Skyscanner: www.skyscanner.com.au Senior Discounts: Coupon65:  www.coupon65.com (if you’re born before 1964)Community driven: OzBargain: www.ozbargain.com.au We hope this list of discounts and rebate options helps our readership. 

Back Row Left to Right: Marion Witheridge, Lyn Mitchell, Anne Hassett, Robyn McQuireFront Row Left to Right: Jan Weaver, Ann Dawes, Wendy ToomeyJoan Cooper, Bob Young, Annette Young, Peter Cooper

The Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme is available to Kiama residents forced to travel for specialist and allied healthcare that’s not available locally. Since August 2022 it's 75 dollars a night for accommodation and 40 cents per kilometre if traveling in a private vehicle. The accommodation rates vary depending on whether it's a non for profit accommodation , or a for profit accommodation, including AirBnBs.To qualify you must be a NSW resident and enrolled with Medicare and not receiving financial assistance from third party insurance or other government services such as veteran affairs. However, full subsidies are also available  with taxi vouchers and even the full cost of economy air fares if approved. The travel must be for treatment at least 100 kilometres for one journey or at least 200 kilometres receiving multiple treatment in one week.To learn more ring 1800 478 227 or search online for IPTAAS or contact the Illawarra-Shoalhaven Health District. 

Kiama Quilters presented founding member Margret Carmichael with a Quilt to mark her 90th birthday at the Kiama Quilters meeting at the Joyce Wheatley Centre in Hindmarsh Park. The Kiama Quilters put on a lovely High Tea to celebrate Margaret Carmicheal’s 90th birthday. For 38 years, Margaret Carmichael has been an essential member of the Kiama Quilters. Unfortunately, the group could not celebrate her contributions due to recent health issues. Kiama and Jamberoo Uniting Church Minister, the Reverend Katherine Merrifield described Margaret as a pillar of her church community and has been a stalwart of many community organisations for years. “Margaret would be the first to say her faith was at the heart of her desire to get involved and make a difference in so many ways,” Rev Kath said. Margaret was presented with a special quilt made by members. She made a short speech, talking about how the Kiama Quilters started 38 years ago and paying tribute to her husband John Carmichael with whom she has shared a marriage of over 70 years. “John has been and always is my rock. When I married him, I knew nothing, and together we taught each other over 70 years of marriage.” Kiama Quilters also had a small fundraiser for R.S.P.C.A during the lunch. The Kiama Quilters met every Wednesday from 10 am to 1 pm at the Joyce Wheatley Centre in Hindmarsh Park in Kiama. 

The future of the regional seniors travel card is in doubt after NSW Premier Chris Minns said he can’t guarantee it will return. The program, which was introduced by the Coalition Government in 2019, provides seniors in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW with a $250 prepaid travel card. The card can be used to pay for pre-booked NSW regional trains and coaches, fuel or taxi services. It’s only available to those that have reached the pension age (67), live in a regional area outside of Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong, and receive support from Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. The program is only available for a four-year trial period which ends in 2023. As a result, the program has been suspended, and will stop accepting new applications on 7 July. Existing cardholders won’t be affected and can continue using their cards until their expiry date.Speaking to media in Dubbo on Monday afternoon, Premier Minns said he couldn’t guarantee that the program would be extended beyond its initial four-year trial. "That card was only funded up until halfway through next year, in order for me to keep the program going I have to find the funds to keep it alive,” said Premier Minns."That's important for a few reasons, firstly, the NSW Government is on track to inherit $187 billion worth of debt in the State. It's the largest figure ever recorded by any government in the history of NSW both as an overall figure and as a percentage of gross state product. Independent Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has urged all eligible seniors to apply for the card at the nearest Service NSW or online before it’s no longer available. “The Regional Seniors Travel Card has been a huge help to many in our community who are struggling with cost-of-living expenses rising,” Mr Ward said. “Those eligible have until this Friday to put an application in. I urge all eligible seniors to get in and claim your $250 card that you can put towards petrol, taxis and public transport.” Mr Ward has also created a petition to save the program, which can be signed at his office on Terralong St, Kiama.

We’re all feeling the pressures from the rising cost of living, but the good news for the ‘over 60’s is that there is a raft of entitlements to claim, and a range of discounts and perks offered by the Government: both state and local, as well as some private organisations.For Seniors: (over 60’s)It is possible to access your superannuation after you turn 60, so if it is needed you should speak to your accountant or financial adviser about the best way to utilise the funds at your disposal.Apply for a Seniors Card: this is the best way to access discounts from participating businesses for a range of goods and services, as well as transport concessions. It’s free to eligible persons. The criteria may change slightly from state to state, however in NSW you must be a permanent resident of the state, aged 60 or over, and working no more than 20 hours a week.  At the moment there are more than 1.4 million members of the NSW Seniors Card scheme, and over 3,500 businesses are participating. *  NOTE: The NSW regional seniors travel card (prepaid $250) stopped accepting new applications on 7 July. Premier Chris Minns said that he can’t guarantee it will return.Locally, Kiama Council offers:●      Reduced rates for concession card holders (including seniors card holders) at the Leisure Centre●      Libraries provide a range of services for all ages. Some that are popular with senior citizens include the Home Library book delivery and pick-up service. There are also Makers and Creators workshops, the Friends of Kiama Library book talks, free film screenings and book club kits.Many Kiama cafes and eateries also offer reduced-priced seniors meals, and some hairdressers have senior discounts, however it’s best to confirm with individual businesses first. Carmen Hamburger and Jennifer White, residents of the South Coast, have been able to take advantage of the benefits offered by their Seniors Cards.For Aged Pensioners:The aged pension is available for those over 66 years who meet income and assets test. To find out about your eligibility you can visit the Department of Human Services website.Pensioner Concession Card: You are eligible for at any age if you receive payments including:●      Age Pension,●      Bereavement Allowance,●      Carer Payment, or●      a Disability Support Pension.Further details on the concessions, including bulk billing for doctor appointments and higher Medicare benefits, can be found on the Department of Human Services website.Animal Welfare League have discount vouchers for Centrelink Concession Card holders.Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: This card provides discounts on Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) prescription medicines, as well as benefits like bulk billed doctor appointments and cheaper out-of-hospital medical expenses. To qualify for a Commonwealth Senior Health Card you must be of Age Pension age and meet the income test and residence requirements. With the difference in state concessions and varying eligibility criteria, it’s best to use this information as a starting point so you know how you can benefit. Kiama Council also offers rebates on Pensioner rates. Aged care facility Blue Haven has a range of seniors-focused services, such as community transport (available as part of people’s Home Care Packages). Hopefully, this list of discounts and rebate options helps our Senior readership.

This is something we will all face and is relevant to all!Despite living longer, very little is known in Australia about how prepared we feel for ageing – until now. It turns out that a glass half full or empty attitude can make a difference to our preparedness.Head of Research at National Seniors Australia, Dr Diane Hosking talks about new research, based on a survey of 3400 people aged 50 and older, that reveals what aspects of preparation are a priority and what factors impact our capacity to prepare.“Growing up, I was told it is a privilege to get older and reminded not everyone has the opportunity. But rather than later life being celebrated and respected, over time many of us have come to believe it is problematic and therefore something to be feared,” she said. That’s partly because we’re living longer, so collectively older age is somewhat uncharted territory. It requires a lot more preparation than in past generations. Researchers know very little about how prepared we feel for ageing in Australia, what aspects of preparation are a priority and what factors impact our capacity to prepare. National Seniors Australia’s research has confirmed this intuitive link between older people’s attitudes towards ageing and their readiness for it. Just over two-thirds of the survey respondents felt somewhat or very prepared for ageing, but those who had ageing concerns were significantly less likely to feel prepared. Head of Research at National Seniors Australia, Dr Diane HoskingConversely, respondents who agreed there are positive aspects to ageing were 340% more likely to feel prepared for it. That’s a significant difference, associated with a sunnier outlook on getting older. Age, health and wealth all affect our readiness for later life too. The research showed older and wealthier people were significantly more likely to feel prepared, while those in poor health were nearly 30% less likely to feel prepared. So, what does preparation for ageing mean to these older Australians? The survey comments highlighted several life areas in which preparations are required, i.e. health, accommodation and finances. The survey revealed that across all life areas, feeling prepared is associated with taking action, gaining knowledge and having a positive mindset. As one 68-year-old respondent explained, “Our finances and living arrangements have been planned for many years and make ageing somewhat easier.”On the other hand, comments about being unprepared highlighted worry and the barriers to preparation. As a 70-year-old respondent shared, “The biggest concern is my lack of understanding of the aged care sector, options and how to pay for it.” Overall, the comments suggest older people need three kinds of support to prepare for ageing. Structural change such as housing and income security are essential enablers because without access to these material supports any preparations will be inadequate. Good information about how to prepare is also valuable. People need to know what to expect from their ageing bodies, what changes to make in their lives, and how to navigate our social support systems in later life. Emotional resilience is the third factor, to help people challenge negative expectations and fears that prevent them from making preparations. We could all benefit from cultivating that magical positive attitude to ageing. While ageing can present changing circumstances, taking action to prepare for it helps maintain quality of life – it buffers against health-related challenges and increases opportunities for fulfilment and satisfaction. When it comes to maintaining quality of life, preparation is key. National Seniors will use this information to help inform its policy and advocacy work supporting quality of later life for older people.