MidCoast Council is calling on over 55s in the region, along with carers and aged care workers and Seniors groups to contribute to its inaugural Ageing Strategy.
It’s no secret that the MidCoast is home to a large number of seniors, with more than half the population being over the age of 55.
Council believes the strategy will be vital in ensuring that the needs of older people can be met now and in the future.
“Once this strategy is developed it will be a tool for future growth for our entire community,” explained Chris Jones, Council’s Manager of Libraries and Community Services.
Council anticipates that consultation will identify a number of areas for improvement that are not within its responsibility.
As a result collaboration between all stakeholders will be key to successful implementation of the strategy to ensure success in making MidCoast an age-friendly community, Mr Jones said.
“We’re looking for feedback from local people aged 55 years and over, a carer or family member of an older person and local aged care workers, to ensure the Strategy is a true reflection of our community, so we encourage everyone to have their say.”
The strategy will focus on five priority areas, health and wellbeing, working and retiring, housing choices, getting around and inclusive communities.
Council has three different surveys online to shape the strategy.
The main survey targets people aged 55 and over, and separate surveys seek feedback from carers, family and aged care workers. For anyone who is short on time a condensed version is available.
“Ultimately we want this strategy to guide us and help to improve the lives of our older residents. It’s vital that residents tell us what’s important to ensure we consider it for the strategy,” said Mr Jones.
If you’d like to chat to Council’s Community Development team about the strategy, there will be a number of pop-up information booths at local markets throughout February, including:
- Wingham Farmers Markets – 6 February
- Black Head Bazaar – 7 February
- Taree Secret Markets – 11 February
- Gloucester Farmers Markets – 13 February
- Nabiac Markets – 27 February
- Pacific Palms Markets – 28 February
Head to www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/HYS to find out more and complete the relevant survey.
