Seniors Feature September 2017

September 2017

LIVING LIFE TO THE FULL… Shepparton residents Alan Courtney and Shirley Garner are enjoying Shepparton’s beautiful spring weather. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

Victorian Seniors Festival Activities. Pg 25 & 28

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Almost half of older Australians fail to look after their health. Pg 37

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July 2017

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GET YOUR HEARING TESTED… Tatura Pharmacy, pharmacy assistant Louise Normington is one of the friendly team helping customers at Tatura. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Get your free hearing test HEARING loss is not a problem limited to seniors. One in six Australians has hearing loss and often they do not even realise it. AHA Tatura Pharmacy are offering free hearing checks as an important step to detecting and treating hearing loss.

AHS Tatura Pharmacy, pharmacy assistant, Tracy Lowry said, “We really care about our seniors and as

promised, we are offering free hearing tests on Friday October 6 from 9am to 4pm. It’s important to book in for your check and if you’re already under a current hearing care provider, we’d refer you back to who you are currently seeing. I’d really encourage people to take advantage of this offer and book their free 15 minute appointment.”

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AHS Tatura Pharmacy has a great history with so many people from the local district and especially like to support their loyal seniors. Tracy said,”We also offer a regular 10 percent discount (excluding prescriptions) to our seniors each Wednesday.”

Speak to the friendly team at 151 Hogan Street, Tatura or call 5824 1043 to secure your free hearing test.

September 2017

STAYING ACTIVE WITH FRIENDS… Mooroopna Golf club members, Chris Burrow, Gwenda Wood and Alison Baxter, enjoying the beautiful spring whether on the green. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

Studies show golfers live longer GOLF is not only a fantastic sport for any person at any age, but it can also be good for your health. Walking an average course for a round of golf can be between five to seven kilometres and playing golf regularly can help you stay fit, improve muscle tone and endurance, lose weight and body fat and it’s also relaxing and very enjoyable.

Mooroopna Golf Club head professional Ashley Blake said, “With the right use of technique, golf is a low impact sport which is easy on the body, keeps you moving and

is a great social activity. The most important thing to understand, whether you’re a beginner or a regular golfing enthusiast, is that correct form is key in preventing injury and improving form flexibility.

“I read an article siting studies recently saying that golfers live an average of eight years longer and that’s no surprise to me. It’s plain to see the physical and mental health benefits of golf. The Mooroopna course is quite flat making it a comfortable walk and for seniors who need a

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little more support, it’s easy to go from being a walking golfer to a cart golfer. Golf really is for anybody.”

The Mooroopna Golf Club offer private golfing tuition as well as men’s, women’s and juniors clinics to help learn and improve technique.

For more information, visit www.mooroopnagolfclub. com or phone the Pro Shop on 5825 2811.

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July 2017

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Recover your strength with so many others

By Nicholise Garner OFTEN people who really need to exercise for wellness, are too unwell or fragile to do so, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Recognizing the need for gentle exercise solutions in Shepparton after undergoing her own medical health challenges and surgery, Core Strength Health and Wellness business owner, Tracey Visser created the perfect space for people to experience gentle and guided exercise to help them recover their lost strength.

Tracey said, “I feel so passionate about the need for gentle physical stimulation in the healing process to strengthen those who are physically or emotionally fragile. These machines have made the world of difference to me and I knew they could benefit so many here in Shepparton, actively helping anyone who requires gentle exercise. The whole circuit only takes 30 minutes with 5 minutes on each machine and the machines themselves are specifically designed to gently target and strengthen core fitness.”

The atmosphere at Core Strength Health and Wellness is quite beautiful. It’s calm and low lit with amber salt lamps

GENTLE EXERCISE WORKING WONDERS… From left, Core Strength Health and Wellness clients, Mheganne Lumsden, Marg Preston, business owner, Tracey Visser and client, Shirley Ingles. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

and beautifully chilled music. I’d suggest that this program would suit anyone and that it is somewhat meditative, the perfect place to unwind during a lunch break.

Tracey said, “ The program is Pilates based and is ideal for people who prefer a more gentle approach to exercise,

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particularly to help with rehabilitation and even for depression.”

Visit Tracey at Shop 9 Centrepoint Complex, 276-278 Maude Street, Shepparton or call her on 5858 5657 to talk about your fitness and wellbeing.

September 2017

Seniors encouraged to enjoy a range of activities TO help celebrate the Victorian Seniors Festival, several events will be held throughout the region during the festival. These range from informative sessions to events to get out and about, enjoy the company of others and see what our region has to offer. To help people get around, there will be free public transport offered for the full eight days of the festival for Seniors Card holders.

All bookings are open now. For further information, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au or call 5832 9785.

Keeping Seniors Healthy

Come and Try Tennis

Tuesday, October 3 Where: Mooroopna Education & Activity Centre, 23 Alexandra St, Mooroopna When: 1:30pm – 3:30pm Cost: Free Bookings required: (03)5825 1774 Bookings close: Monday, October 2

Friday, October 6 Where: Dhurringile Tennis Club, Dhurringile Reserve – 625 Langham Road Dhurringile When: 4pm – 7pm Cost: Free Enquires: Lisa 0428 266 310 Email: iniglia.tastudio@bigpond.com

Cultural Bus Trip

Follow Your Rubbish Tour

Wednesday, October 4 Where: Location to be advised When: 9:15am – 2pm Cost: Free Bookings Essential: (03)5832 9785

Meditation along the River Wednesday, October 4 Where: Leave from Shepparton Senior Citizens Building – Welsford St Shepparton When: 9am – 10:30am Cost: Free Bookings Required: (03)5832 9700 Email: riverconnect@greatershepparton. vic.gov.au

Monday, October 9 Where: Bus departs from Shepparton Library, 41-42 Marungi St, Shepparton When: 9.45am – Returns 12.30pm Cost: Free B o ok i n g s E s s e nt i a l : – For mor e information call council on (03)5832 9700 or email: waste@shepparton.vic.gov.au

Tatura Community House – Trivia Afternoon Tuesday, October 10 Where: Tatura Community House, 12–16 Casey St, Tatura Cost: $2 Bookings Required: (03)5824 1315 Bookings Close: Thursday, October 5

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GET OUT AND ABOUT… There are many local activities running as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival that provide seniors across our community with the opportunity to get out and about. Photo: Supplied.

My Aged Care and Service Information Morning / Australian Hearing Tuesday, October 10 W here: Shepparton Senior Citizens Centre, 132 Welsford St, Shepparton When: 10am – 12pm Cost: Free Enquires: (03)5832 9785 Bookings: Not required

River Heritage Walk and Talk Wednesday, October 11 Bring: Sturdy walking shoes Where: Leave from Shepparton Historical Society, 154 Welsford St, Shepparton When: 10am –11am Cost: Free Bookings essential: (03)5832 9700 Email: riverconnect@greatershepparton. vic.gov.au

Mary Queen of Scots Wednesday, October 11 W here: Shepparton Senior Citizens Centre, 132 Welsford St Shepparton When: 10:30am – 12:30pm Cost: Free Bookings Essential: (03)5832 9785

Shepparton Senior Citizens – Bus Trip, Maryborough Trip Thursday, October 12 Where: Bus leaves from Shepparton Library, 41-42 Marungi St, Shepparton

When: 8am Cost: $25 Bookings Required: (03)5821 9483 Bookings Close: Sunday, October 8

GV Essential Tremor Support Group (linked with International Essential Tremor Support Foundation) Thursday, October 12 Contact: Chris Beer (Support Leader) on 0427 331 104 Email: gvessentialtremor@gmail.com Facebook: GV Essential Tremor Support Group Where: Shepparton Library, 41-42 Marungi St, Shepparton When: 10am Cost: Free Bookings/enquiries: 0427 331 104

Shepparton Croquet Club, Come and Try – Golf Croquet Friday, October 13 Where: 37 – 49 Winston St, Shepparton When: 10am Cost: Free Bookings: 0427 327 201 / 5821 4416

Seniors Victoria Concert – with James Blundell Tuesday, October 17 Where: Eastbank, 90 Welsford St, Shepparton When: 1pm Cost: Free Bookings: Not Required

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Products designed to make ageing easier S THE one thing we have in common in this life is that we are all ageing. Thankfully of all of the times to grow older, ours is devising and delivering simple and workable tools to extend independent living outcomes and make everyday actions so much easier for those who would normally struggle.

In our youth we often take the simplicity of our tasks for granted, from opening a jar or getting into the car or even just reaching for the seatbelt, these all can be difficult tasks in later years.

Freedom Independence Products business owner, John McDonald said, “Everything we supply is aimed at improving the quality of life for people who find everyday life activities difficult… from walking to bathing, getting up and down, in and out.

There are so many excellent products now available to make mobility easier and to keep people getting on with their lives without restriction.”

From walking sticks and seatbelt grabbers to an extensive range of mobility scooters including lightweight fold-up mobility aids visit the team at Freedom Independence Products to make life easier for yourself or for someone you love.

See their extensive range of stock in store at 6 Benalla Road, Shepparton (Between Safeway Plaza and Lincraft), phone 5831 7317 or visit www.fipscooters.com.au for more information.

ASSITING THE AGEING POPULATION… From left, Freedom Independence Products sales representative, David Norris and business owner, John McDonald with the range of products on offer to help with the ageing population. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

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| HOME CARE PACKAGES

Supporting independent living into the future

WORKING TO HELP PEOPLE REMAIN INDEPENDENT… Rumbalara Home Care Packages case manager, Samara Mackay, Rumbalara aged care resident Katherine McCormick and case manager, Glenda Christenson.

HUMAN beings strive for independence. From the time a baby first holds their own bottle to the day we die, we seek our independence and having to rely on others as the years go by must be incredibly difficult and even soul destroying at times.

Rumbalara’s Home Care Program takes this into account and supports the independence for aged community members.

Rumbalara director of positive ageing and disability services, Dean Walton said, “Our Home Care Packages Program provides older people who want to stay at home with access to a range of ongoing personal services, support services and clinical

care that help them with their day-to-day activities.

The program is part of the Australian Government’s continuum of care for older people in Australia, providing services between the Commonwealth Home Support Program and residential aged care.”

Rumbalara is very proud to be the only Aboriginal provider in this area, but also able to provide services to any older person who has a home care package, they have over 20 years of experience in this field and currently provides over 145 packages across 4 regions in Victoria and New South Wales.

Dean said, “Based locally, our case managers ensure that all our clients receive a holistic

assessment enabling them to access all services that may be needed for them to stay in their own homes, have their health needs met and assist them in living longer and living stronger.

“Some of the services we can arrange and provide include home help, transport to appointments, meals, home and garden maintenance, respite, advocacy and access to allied health professionals.”

For more information call 5822 2866 to speak with an experienced staff member or visit Rumbalara Elders Facility at 95 Ford Road, Shepparton.

Elders facilities

Combining Elders facilities & Aged Care & Disability Services for our

community

Rumbalara Elders Facility is a 30 bed (plus 1 palliative care room) residential Aged Care facility purposely built to provide: • Permanent Residential Care • Respite Care • Palliative Care Our Priority is Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.

The Rumbalara Community Home Support Program (CHSP) provides home and community support services for elderly people over 50 years of age, younger people with a disability and their carers.

Elders Facility

95 Ford Rd, Shepparton P: 5820 6200

Aged Care & Disability Services P: 5822 2866

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September 2017

Residential care a home where you choose what, when and how!

RESIDENTIAL care is a home. A home were the occupants - the residents - can choose when and what they do. At Shepparton Villages, we have been working with our staff to ensure that our facilities are communities where our residents feel at home, where their choices are valued and adhered too.

Shepparton Villages CEO Kerri Rivett explained, “There is a lot of talk about a consumer directed model of care and what that means for those in residential care. At Shepparton Villages it’s all about the residents having a say in how their day unfolds. Our care, whether it is a little bit of care or a lot, is never compromised, but we are extremely respectful of consumer choice and go out of our way to ensure each and every resident has their best day possible, whatever that may mean for them.”

Buffet breakfasts where residents can help themselves or linger over a second cup of tea, or enjoy a sleep in if they wish are all part of life at Shepparton Villages, as are active residents committees at the sites making decisions on the décor and soft furnishing in their home.

“Many residents have signs on their door saying they don’t want to be woken before a certain time, and that’s how it should be, it’s their home, we are invitees there to help,” Ms Rivett said.

Currently there are 271 residents in six aged care facilities across the three Shepparton Villages sites. Work is progressing on a new 120 bed, $34m development at Tarcoola which will extend the capacity for aged care in this region, due to open in mid-2018.

THE BREAKFAST BAR IS OPEN… Banksia Lodge resident Roy Eliason helps himself to breakfast.

Residents at Shepparton Villages help themselves to the breakfast bar in their own time, allowing many to enjoy a sleep in when they want. Photo: Supplied.

Seniors encouraged to enjoy a range of activities TO help celebrate the Victorian Seniors Festival, several events will be held throughout the region during the festival. These range from informative sessions to events to get out and about, enjoy the company of others and see what our region has to offer. To help people get around, there will be free public transport offered for the full eight days of the festival for Seniors Card holders.

All bookings are open now. For further information, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au or call 5832 9785.

Murchison Neighbourhood House Wednesday, October 18 Where: Bus departs from Murchison Neighbourhood House, 23 Impey Street, Murchison When: 9am Cost: $35 Bookings Required: (03)5826 2373 Bookings Close: Wednesday, October 11

Cosgrove/Dookie Hospital Auxiliary – Open Gardens Saturday, October, 21 and Sunday, October 22 Where: Dookie / Cosgrove When: 10am – 4pm Cost: $5 per garden – the market is free Enquiries: Lynn McDonald (03)5828 6372 or Una Feldtman (03)5828 6283

Spotlight Walk Tuesday, October 24 W hat you need to bring: a torch, comfortable walking shoes, a drink bottle.

Where: Location and time to be advised when booking

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When: 7:30pm – 9:30pm Cost: Free Bookings Essential: All enquiries (03)5832 9700 Email: riverconnect@greatershepparton.vic. gov.au

Australian Hearing – Shepparton Library – Vision Australia Monday, October 23 Where: Shepparton Library, 41-42 Marungi Street, Shepparton When: 10:30am – 3pm Cost: Free Enquiries: rebecca.biagioni@hearing.com.au

ME ‘N ME MATES Australian songs and stories Wednesday, October 25 Where: Tallygaroopna Memorial Hall, corner of Victoria and Fowler Street, Tallygaroopna When: 11am Cost: Free Bookings Essential: (03)5832 9785

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September 2017

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Care for those who’ve cared the most S BERNICE Cahill of Kirwans Bridge had always been the one looking after everyone else.

“We’ve had a wonderful life,’ she remembers of the sixty years spent with husband, Norm.

But after 83 years strong, it came time for the retired midwife, mother of 10 and grandmother of 27, to receive a little looking after of her own.

“I get help at home, transport to appointments, just about anything!”

Bernice receives services from local Home Care

Package provider, Community Interlink.

“The support I get enables us to stay here in our own home, which is what we want to do,” Bernice said.

Uniquely, Community Interlink provides services via a person’s local hospital or health service.

“The people coming into mum and dad’s home are locals, they know them and they trust them,” Bernice’s daughter, Louise Dwyer said.

“I can relax knowing that they’re in the best hands.”

Learn more about Bernice and Louise’s story at www.communityinterlink.org.au/our-stories WHERE WE WANT TO BE… From left, Norm and Bernice Cahill of Kirwan’s Bridge say Community Interlink Home Care services enable them to remain living in their own home. Photo: Supplied.

Older Victorians celebrated during Victorian Seniors Festival THE Victorian Seniors Festival is set to return from Sunday, October 8 for its 35th year, to celebrate the more than a million Victorians over 60 who make such a valuable contribution to our society.

More than 1,500 events and activities

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will be held around the state throughout the month of October for older Victorians to enjoy with family and friends.

Older Victorians make up more than 15 percent of the state’s population, and from team sports and skill-building activities to education and arts events, the Seniors Festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Promoting inclusivity and the diversity of older Victorians, this year’s Festival theme is ‘You’re welcome.’ Regardless of background, experience or mobility, everyone is encouraged to take part to learn new skills and make new friends in their communities.

The Festival will also acknowledge the high rate of volunteering among Victorian seniors. The most recent Ministerial C ou ncil for Volu nteers publication, Volunteers in Victoria, shows that 40 percent of Victorians aged between 65 and 74 volunteered in some way in 2014.

T he A nd re w s L ab or G over n ment working towards an age-friendly and inclusive Victoria for all seniors, and one that celebrates the remarkable contribution

they make across the state.

Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing, Martin Foley said, “We’re excited to host the Victorian Seniors Festival for its 35th year and celebrate the huge contribution older Victorians make to our community.”

“The Festival is part of our work to create an inclusive Victoria for all those aged 60 years and above, and provide a range of activities to keep our seniors healthy and active.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Human Services, Sharon Knight said, “I encourage all Victorians to come and participate in the free and low-cost events taking place all across Victoria, as there truly is something for everyone to learn, be entertained by and enjoy.”

For more information about events and activities, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/ festival or pick up a free Victorian Seniors Festival program at any Coles store, local library, council office or neighbourhood house. You can also call 1300 135 090 to have a program sent to you.

September 2017

Do you have trouble hearing your smoke alarm?

IF you struggle hearing your smoke alarm, then the Brooks smoke alarm may be the solution you are looking for to give you peace of mind at night.

With the bushfire season around the corner, Australian Hearing has stocked up on the safety devices.

Brooks’ battery-powered smoke alarms are specially made for those who are hard of hearing and are backed by the CFA. Brooks smoke alarms feature a highintensity pillow shaker, a strobe light and a high-volume ringer.

Australian Hearing Shepparton manager, Paige Madgwick said it was crucial to be alerted in dangerous situations immediately.

“The Brooks devices are fitted with extra safety features, compared to other devices on the market.

“The Brooks pillow shaker rests easily under your pillow, while the extra bright strobe light and large print make it easy to read the display.

“If your smoke alarm went off in the middle of the night, would you be able to hear it?

“Brooks smoke alarms come with a special vibrating device and will wake you even if you are in a deep sleep,” Ms Madgwick said.

For more information, phone Australian Hearing Shepparton on 5823 7500 or drop into 205 Fryers Street, Shepparton.

SAFTEY AGAINST FIRE… From left, Australian Hearing Shepparton manager, Paige Madgwick, Shepparton CFA senior station officer, Leigh Allan, leading firefighter, Jon Henry and firefighter, Greg Joinbee with the new Brooks’ battery-powered smoke alarms, which are specially made for those who are hard of hearing and are backed by the CFA. Photo: David Lee.

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VICTORIAN SENIORS

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S LOOK AFTER YOUR HEALTH… It is important that older Australians to do everything they can to look after their health and put their own health first, which includes getting tested and treated for Shingles. Photo: Supplied.

Almost half of older Australians fail to look after their health DESPITE 87 of older Australians believing they are doing their best to take care of themselves, 70 percent remain unaware they are at risk of serious conditions like shingles.

New research released recently has found that almost half of our Australians in their 70s are not looking after their health. The research found 60 percent admit to not eating a balanced diet, over half (52 percent) are drinking more alcohol than recommended, almost half (49 percent) are not maintaining an active lifestyle, and 70 percent remain unaware they are at risk of serious conditions like shingles. These figures are in contrast with 87 percent of this group believing they are actually doing their best to take care of themselves.

Additionally, just under half of this group (46 percent) prioritise the importance of the health of other family members over their own personal health.

Geriatrician, Associate Professor Michael Woodward AM said, “This research is concerning as it shows that not only do many of our older Australians misunderstand what they need to do to protect their health, despite their best efforts, they are getting some of the basics wrong. They are also putting others ahead of their own health, potentially exposing themselves and others to illness. Additionally, although they are seeing their GP regularly, they are still not aware that the risk of developing certain illnesses increases as they age, such as shingles.”

The research uncovered that over a quarter (27 percent) of 70-79 year old Australians have had shingles, a condition not only more

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common over the age of 70, but with an increased chance of complications at this age.

“70 percent of our 70-79 year olds don’t know they are at high risk of shingles, and over a third (36 percent) are not aware that shingles may be treated and prevented. Shingles can strike at any time and we don’t know how severe it will be when it hits. We do know that the chance of developing shingles, along with the risk of complications, increase with age, particularly over the age of 70,” Associate Professor Woodward said.

“Although there is no cure for shingles and we know one in three will develop shingles in their lifetime, 40 percent of Australians aged 70-79 are not aware that there are government funded shingles prevention and treatment options,” Associate Professor Woodward said.

Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.

After chickenpox, the varicella zoster virus lays dormant in the nerves and can reactivate at any time, most commonly in older age, causing shingles. It is characterised by a blistering rash which appears as a band or belt on one side of the body, however shingles is not just a rash. Some people affected by shingles also experience severe, chronic and debilitating nerve pain, that can last for months or even years, known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

The research also uncovered the reasons why our older Australians want to protect their health, with 84 percent saying it is so they could enjoy life more and live a longer and healthier life, and 61 percent saying it was so they could be around to see grandchildren grow up.