New digital platform to help older Australians age their way

GOVERNMENT-FUNDED FREE SERVICE NOW AVAILABLE

LiveUp is a new free nationwide digital-first healthy ageing service that is designed to give older Australian’s a breadth of opportunities to maintain independence. LiveUp features a screening tool with expert advice connecting older Australians to local services, support networks and assistive products and equipment that will help them to age independently, their way.

iLA was provided with funding from the Australian Government to create the LiveUp website and screening tool, which supports early intervention and delays premature decline of an older person’s capacity to live or function independently.

General Manager of iLA Andrea Morris said LiveUp will change the way older Australians approach ageing.

“LiveUp gives older Australians the ideas, tools and guidance to keep doing the things they already know and love, or to try something a bit different.”

“The science shows that only 25 per cent of ageing is attributed to the genes we inherit; the remaining 75 per cent of ageing can be attributed to the lifestyle choices we make.”

At www.liveup.org.au, older Australians will be able to do a quick OpenUp quiz which will provide suggestions for low-cost products and equipment, known as assistive technology, that help with everyday living. Originating in the UK, iLA has brought the LifeCurve to Australia as part of LiveUp. The LifeCurve is designed and backed by more than 15 years of evidence-based research that will help older people understand how they are tracking on their ageing journey. After making small changes in their lifestyle, people can revisit LiveUp and compare how they have improved their health and wellbeing position on the LifeCurve.

“In simple terms, it creates a personal roadmap to take control of ageing. And that’s whether someone is starting to feel a twinge or two or is a great-grandparent who could use aids and equipment to support their day-to-day tasks at home or in the community.”

Morris says that by understanding how to take control of many of the changes that occur from ageing, older Australians can take action and enjoy a better quality of life.

“We all hold the key to ageing in our own hands and minds.”

People will also find locally relevant activities and networks focused on helping them to maintain or even improve their level of independence.

If any physical decline is shown through the OpenUp quiz, the person will be guided to complete the Lifecurve for more thorough self-assessment and tailored advice specific to their unique needs. With ready online access, from the comfort of home, LiveUp offers impartial information, guidance, and support to add life to years, not just years to life.

“This is particularly relevant for providers of home care and retirement living, and we encourage them to promote the free service to their clients.”

Neil Berrick is Communications Manager, iLA. For more information visit www.liveup.org.au