Diagram 17:Effects on People Experiencing Disruptions to In-home Care 36%
63%
9% 36% 76%
Lack of access to Groceries and Supplies (24)
Increased Domestic Violence (6)
Increased Levels of Alcohol (24)
Increased Anxiety and Stress (51)
Increased Social Isolation or Loneliness (42)
This cohort also reported very high levels of mental health concerns, with 76% (51) reporting increased anxiety and stress and over 63% (42) expressing a sense of isolation or loneliness. Comments from respondents identified the greater levels of risk for those aged and/or living with a disability in the community and the need for a check-up service. Some suggested permissions be granted to nurses to visit patients. The data demonstrates that people continue to I am a single retired female in late 60s whose rent was put up be impacted by the interface between the current housing crises and the effects of COVID- by $40 p.w. recently, so yes, I am feeling very insecure and 19. On this topic, many respondents held stressed. negative views. Some respondents stated that relocation of people from other areas without appropriate supports has created a local housing crisis, and others expressed perceptions that those migrating were ‘taking’ jobs and housing in Cairns. The affordability of housing has raised concerns, particularly for older adults who are renting.
Access to Localised Information and Education and Awareness While many of the written responses debated what constituted an essential business and the effectiveness of lockdowns as a response strategy, the focus on impacts and improvements to assist community preparedness and response focused on increased access to localised and centralised information and ongoing education and awareness raising. Many responses focused on improved access and provision of information, with respondents calling for a centralised and credible point of authority to provide localised information. Many respondents perceived that a lack of timely and relevant information and difficulty navigating the State Government sites impacted their preparedness lead times. 45
