By ANEEKA SIMONIS
CARDINIA Shire Council plans to lobby land developers to build appropriate housing for older people as population forecasts estimate a 120 per cent boom in ageing residents over the next decade.
Council’s newly released draft 2015-’19 Age Friendly Strategy aims to create a more inclusive, enjoyable living space for elderly residents.
The council plan will put a key focus on the mental and physical health of elderly residents as well as helping them feel safe in the community in a bid to improve their
quality of life.
Some of the key issues identified by elderly residents in the Cardinia Shire were centred around a lack of access to efficient public transport, access to affordable health and community services and the desire to feel respected in the community.
Programs to facilitate the competence of older drivers and increase their chances at securing paid work locally are key objectives outlined in the plan.
Mayor Leticia Wilmot said it would also aim to provide more local age friendly events, activities and employment options.
“Achieving good health as we age is important to enjoy a good quality of life and to participate fully in the community. It can also reduce demands for health and aged care services,” Cr Wilmot said.
According to council statistics, the Pakenham Precinct will experience the greatest increase in people aged 60 to 85+ years between 2015 and 2019.
Forecasts also indicate significant increases in the number of ageing residents in Beaconsfield, Officer, Nar Nar Goon, Tynong and Cockatoo.
The strategy has outlined plans to advocate incoming land developers for appropriate housing options for older people and provide more information about service availability to help with housework, gardening and home repairs.
The draft plan proposes for Cardinia Shire to become a World Health Organisation Age Friendly Community.
Submissions close on Friday 3 July. Interested residents can view the draft strategy on council’s webpage or at the civic centre.
