Support to help older residents stay socially connected

Support to help older residents stay socially connected

Published on 24 June 2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is holding a free information session in Gisborne on 5 July for older people, their families and carers about Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Village Connect services.

Most people want to stay socially connected and participate fully in community life for as long as possible as they get older. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Village Connect can provide the extra support you might need to stay connected to your community.

Support available includes:

Social support: support to attend appointments, shopping, banking, community activities, group excursions, assistance with technology (purchasing & using devices), regular phone calls, etc. Respite care: someone to care for you while your carer takes a break. Connecting to activities: information about activities in the community that support good mental and physical health, and bringing older people together online.

The information session will explain more about local services and supports, who can benefit, how supports can be accessed and approximate costs.

Council’s Director Community, Maria Weiss said Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Village Connect services play a pivotal role in helping the shire’s older population to remain active members of the local community.

“We encourage older residents and their families to come along to this information session to find out what support is available in the shire to help them stay socially connected,” she said.

The information session will run from 1.30 to 3.30 pm on Tuesday 5 July at the Gisborne Mechanics Hall, 8 Hamilton Street Gisborne.

COVID-safety measures will be in place and free transport can be arranged for those who do not have access to transport.

To register contact Stephanie Harper on 5422 0258 or email [email protected]