While getting older brings many changes, both positive and negative, many older Australians find aging comes with its own set of challenges. 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.
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.
Speak with your regular GP about services that may be beneficial for you.
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.
Visit: My Aged Care website
Call: 1800 200 422
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.
Visit: Red Cross - Services for Older People
Call: 1300 885 698
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.
Visit: Dementia Australia
If you experience, witness, or suspect elder abuse, call the free and confidential National Elder Abuse phone line for information, support and referrals. The phone number automatically redirects callers seeking information and advice on elder abuse with the phone service in their state or territory. This phone line is not a crisis support service, and operating hours and services vary across states and territories.
Call: 1800 353 374
Retiree Graeme Holdsworth was a hugely successful project manager, responsible for building some of Australia’s most iconic buildings from Melbourne’s Crown to Sydney’s 1 Martin Place. He was renowned for his building and management skills.
However, towards the end of his career, he realised his behaviours were starting to change. He yelled at everyone from staff to a client and ended up unemployed and divorced. He then made an attempt on his life.
Today, Graeme speaks of his experience and recovery, he shares the many strategies he has put in place to keep himself connected and hopeful through retirement.