A new peer support group for people with disability who are aged 65 and over has been launched in Queensland.
Coinciding with the 60th anniversary of Queensland Seniors Week, the new Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) has the support of the Council on the Ageing Queensland (COTAQ).
The new peer support group will provide a space for over 65s with disability from all over Queensland to connect, share information and talk about topics that are important to them.
Queenslanders with Disability Network Chief Executive Officer, Paige Armstrong, said in trying times like the COVID-19 pandemic, support groups could make all the difference in someone’s life.
“Over the recent months, I have seen firsthand the benefit community support, especially online support, can have on reducing feelings of isolation and offering hope and advice,” said Ms Armstrong.
“This new support group will be instrumental in helping members of our community feel supported and connected in their day-to-day lives, even if they are geographically far away from each other,” she said.
“Peer support groups connect people who are in a similar situation, with similar experiences, and can be a place where they can give each other information and support to navigate systems and situations better.”
The Council on the Ageing Queensland Chief Executive, Mark Tucker-Evans said even though Seniors Week was a little different this year – being hosted virtually for the first time – it was still an important week of celebration in Queensland.
“We might not be able to gather like we normally do but we are still able to share our stories, celebrating seniors in our community as well as giving each other virtual hugs,” Mr Tucker-Evans said.
“The peer support group is another avenue where seniors with disability can connect with each other and continue to celebrate and share what matters to them all year round.”
Queensland Seniors Week runs from 15 to 23 August 2020 and celebrates its 60th anniversary of promoting positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitating community participation, and enhancing community connections helping to build an age-friendly community.
QDN has established Local Support Groups throughout Queensland for people with disability across all age brackets and disabilities.
More information about QDN’s peer support groups is available at www.qdn.org.au or by calling 1300 363 783.
