Older adults
“Growing older is an unexpected gift. We no longer take our good health for granted. We cherish time, live in the present. We've put down the past - it's too heavy. We enjoy every day with gratitude. Our priorities have changed: where we once stood in the workplace is immaterial; who we love and the wonder of our earth are all that's needed. We understand ourselves and our place in humanity.” Dianne, Grandmother
Support for older adults
While getting older brings many changes, both positive and negative, many older Australians find aging comes with its own set of challenges.
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Supporting yourself and others
A changing role in the community, transitioning from work to retirement, a possible decline in health, reduced independence, bereavement and loss, and an increase in social isolation can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of older adults.
Sign may include:
Feeling overwhelmed
Low self-esteem and confidence
Irritability or anger
Expressing negative thoughts
Sleep disturbances
Physical symptoms such as an increased heart rate or stomach issues
Difficulty sleeping
Withdrawal from social situations
Expressing suicidal ideation
Experiencing memory loss, disorientation or agitation
If you, or someone you care for is in need of support, please call Lifeline to speak to a trained Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14 (24 hours / 7 days) or text Lifeline on 0477 13 11 14 (24 hours / 7 days) or chat online (24 hours / 7 days). We are here to listen.
Support services
Your GP
Speak with your regular GP about services that may be beneficial for you.
My aged care
My Aged Care is the Australian Government’s starting point to access government-funded aged care services. Find and access the government-funded services you need. Whatever your situation, specific needs, or background, they can help you understand what types of government-funded services are available.
The Red Cross
The Red Cross provides social support and aged care services to support older adults. Older adults can be matched one-on-one with a friend, receive regular caring welfare calls, be driven to appointments, provided with a personal alarm or be delivered a healthy meal. They can also support with access to appropriate housing and care.
Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia represents the 459,000 Australians living with dementia and the almost 1.6 million Australians involved in their care. Dementia Australia advocates for the needs of people living with all types of dementia, and for their families and carers, and provide support services, education and information.
We're here for you
Get confidential one-to-one support from a trained Lifeline crisis supporter whenever you need.
If life is in danger, call Triple Zero (000)