Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire
Ageing Well Strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
Fact Sheets
More information
Aged Housing Survey 2007
In many communities across Australia, including Sutherland Shire, residents are becoming older. With adequate forward planning this is something Council and the community can take in its stride. We have taken a positive view on ageing so that as a community we can focus on 'ageing well'.
Council has developed an Ageing Strategy so that we know what we need to do now to prepare for an ageing population in 2030. The idea is to highlight what we need to change, start doing or do differently. The three main focus areas are on what Council will do, what we can all do as individuals, and to a lesser extent, what we expect other organisations in the community to do.
Ageing Strategy
 |
Read the Strategy document:
|
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
 |
These FAQs are designed to be an easy way to get your questions answered and for you to get the services you need.
|
Fact Sheets
 |
1. What can you do about getting around?
Report broken and dangerous footpaths to council
Consider taxi transport
Enquire about using motorised scooters in facilities and services before purchasing such a device
Be aware of the range of transport services and plan ahead when using them
Be aware of volunteer escort services to take you to appointments if needed
Maintain your family and neighbourhood networks as they may be able to provide transport
Be aware of travel subsidies from the State Government
Be aware of disabled parking permits if you have mobility problems through your doctor
|
 |
2. What can you do about care and support?
- Discuss how to get care and support with your GP
- Be willing to accept some services to keep your independence in other areas of life
- Obtain a Senior's Service Directory from Council
- Make yourself aware of your local Neighbour Aid Centre
- Make yourself aware of the subsidies that you are entitled to
- Share contact details with your neighbours for emergencies and support
|
 |
3. What can you do about staying healthy?
- Find a local General Practitioner and build a relationship by having regular checkups (even if you are a bloke!)
- Do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily
- Get help to stop smoking
- Eat a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables
- Limit your alcohol intake to the recommended range (2 standard drinks daily for men, 2 standard drinks daily for women, with at least 2 alcohol free days per week)
- Check medications and always tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including non-prescription and alternative medicines)
- Keep your mind active by taking advantage of services and facilities provided by council such as libraries
- Maintain social networks and volunteer
- Go to information sessions provided to the ageing community
- Walk for exercise and to get around
- Be security conscious around home
- Be aware of possible consumer fraud, and seek another opinion if you are unsure about something
- Overcome fears of crime, and get out and about, even at night
|
 |
4. What can you do about your future housing needs?
- Plan well in advance to downsize
- Begin to plan for a low maintenance garden
- Consider purchasing an accessible property or home, villa or unit
- Consider access to services and facilities
- Become informed of your rights under tenancy laws pertaining to strata development, retirement villages, rental or cooperative housing before you move to new arrangements
- Get legal advice about new housing arrangements
- If you are going into a housing type that requires collective decision making and feel uncomfortable about it, find an advocate who will come along with you
|
 |
5. What can you do about being involved?
- Plan ahead for your financial future
- Plan ahead to be involved, develop your interests and social networks before you retire. Develop a 'life plan'
- Become a volunteer – help your neighbours or at the local community centre
- Investigate your employer's approach to 'phased' retirement through flexible work arrangements such as part-time work
- Consider owning a pet for companionship
- Visit council's animal shelter to find your new animal companion
|
Related information:
More information
If you would like any more information or to make a comment about 'Ageing Well in Sutherland Shire', please contact:
Top of page
Aged Housing Survey
In 2007, Council conducted a survey of Shire residents aged over 64 years about housing choice. The purpose of the survey was to assist in the development of the Ageing Strategy.
Downlad the summary report:
Top of page