Ageing Well in a changing world
The Commissioner for Senior Victorians was asked to canvas the views of senior Victorians on ‘ageing well’ to ensure the framework is informed by their aspirations and real-life experiences. The Ageing Well in a Changing World report is the result of that research, which was completed in October 2019.
Based on consultation with almost 5000 participants, the study is one of Australia’s largest pieces of research examining the views of seniors.
Our population is ageing. People over 85 years old are the fastest growing population group in Australia. Ensuring Victorians are supported to ‘age well’ must be a priority not just because it is the right thing to do for seniors and their loved ones, but because it is beneficial for our society overall. Older Victorians are willing and able to continue to contribute to society in a positive way. Fostering the conditions that enable them to age well will assist them to do so.
It is a timely report; the World Health Organisation has declared 2020 to 2030 as the decade of healthy ageing, putting the spotlight on the need for individuals, governments and societies to make ageing well a priority.
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Much can be done at the government and service system level, with older Victorians identifying five initial priority areas for action at the State Government level, namely:
- Senior Victorians desire to have a greater voice
Older people want to have greater input into factors that impact on their wellbeing and ability to age well.
- Triggering a longevity dividend
Maximising the participation of older people in social, economic and community life will deliver long-term dividends for our society as the population continues to age.
- Respect and recognition of older people
Older people reported facing ageism, including a feeling that society treats them as if they are invisible, rather than valuing their contribution.
- Navigation to services and support
To maintain their independence, older people need access to support and services in a timely manner.
- Online alternatives and support
Victorian seniors consider keeping in touch with our changing world to be a priority but, while some are comfortable using technology, many others require additional support to take advantage of online access. Strategies are required to address the digital divide, as well as providing face-to-face and other forms of information.
Maximising quality of life
In terms of their opportunities for ageing well, older people were very clear that there are many things they can, and should, do for themselves to maximise their quality of life as they age. These include adopting a positive attitude to the experience of growing older, coming to terms with the challenges and limitations that arise and, as far as possible, self-managing their health and wellbeing.
Increasing the respect society affords to older people for who they are and what they contribute can be achieved by giving seniors a greater say in decisions that are made about them, and the ageing of our population, by all levels of government.
To view the full report visit: www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/ageing-well
To view the video of the launch via Facebook: https://fb.watch/5-QDpZRIxr/
