t e d t o
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W e d n e s d a y 3 1 s t M a y 2 0 2 3
s t a r t i n g a t 1 1 : 3 0 a m
H e l d a t
3 6 0 - 3 6 2 F l a x t o n D r i v e , F l a x t o n
I n c l u d e s l i g h t r e f r e s h m e n t s
S c a n h e r e
t o R S V P
THE Sunshine Coast faces unprecedented pressure to improve services for older residents with new figures showing over 150,000 people aged 60+ will call the region home by 2042.
Australian Bureau of Statistics population estimates forecast an extra 85,000 people in the 60+ age bracket will move to the area by 2042 including a 240 per cent increase in those aged 85 and over.
Experts say the forecasts have widespread ramifications on the inevitable demand for aged care-focused social services and infrastructure.
Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast CEO Paul Fisher said the appeal of the region to retirees - the lure of a sub tropic climate, coastal and hinterland escapes and laid-back lifestyle and the ability to down size - was a given.
And with turbo-charged population patterns, rigorous planning was paramount to accommodate this demographic. Delays, especially in complex and already expensive infrastructure would create a burden on already congested roads, and Mr Fisher nominated the current lack of transport connectivity across the region at the top of his concerns. GC&M News
last year explored the challenges faced by hinterland residents getting to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, finding it was quicker to get to Royal Brisbane Hospital for some.
The issue goes beyond planning for the 2032 Olympic Games, which has been seen by many as the go-to catalyst for the heavy rail connection.
“The need to upgrade our current transport infrastructure is crucially important,” he said.
“We need to be improving our road, rail, and mass transit options now, to prepare for future and ageing growth.
“Connectivity between hinterland and the coast is a known issue and there is a very public and ongoing campaign to advocate for a rail connection between Beerwah and Maroochydore.”
Mr Fisher said while there had been some improvements to roads, rail and mass transit, key projects including the Beerwah to Maroochydore rail link were still not funded or finalised.
“There has been far too much complacency in the funding arena and the fiscal impasse between the State and Federal, with heavy rail connectivity needing to be addressed immediately, to allow time for workforce and materials,” he said.
“We literally can have no more delays if we want to be ready for the Olympics and predicted population growth.”
Mr Fisher also highlighted the need to ensure improved digital connectivity, to allow an older cohort to access vital
information, health and community support services, and transport options.
Another key issue was the growing lack of affordable and accessible housing options, with current issues around supply only set to increase.
Mr Fisher suggested a key question should also be around future costs, and who and how these projects would be funded.
Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce president, Jenny Broderick, said future access to facilities, health and specialist services was vital for the regions elderly, as well as having a basic public transport system that provided regular, logical, and accessible services.
“We need to be preparing now,” Ms Broderick said.
“A lack of foresight and planning has left us in a position of playing catchup in regard to infrastructure, transport, and town planning.
“We need our elderly to be able to access all that they need within our own region, without being required to travel too far.
“We also need to encourage a diverse range of businesses to embed in our growing area, and support them so they are able to support us.”
Glasshouse Country Care general manager, Clare Mullins, said it was difficult to plan ahead given significant changes underway in the aged care sector including changes to the home care support system, which were not
We need to be improving our road, rail, and mass transit options now to prepare for future and aging growth.RDA’s Paul Fisher Regular activities across the hinterland (clockwise from above) Glasshouse Country View Club , bowling at Club Glasshouse, Probus Club lunches and Sconetime at Beerwah.
scheduled for release until 2025. She said going forward there would be no doubt a greater focus would be required for specialist residential housing and respite care, and improved local transport accessibility and localised services would be a huge consideration that needed to be addressed sooner rather than later.
RangeCare’s Jess Garey said future
funding would need to be increased and the medical, disability and supporting allied health system would require a massive overhaul to keep up with the demands of an ageing community. Local access and availability to retail and services, as well as social support networks and programs would be critical, with planning needed now to ensure future delivery.
FUTURE-PROOFING your home, by making it safer with some minor changes, is a proactive and wise idea as you get a little older. A few modifications can create an environment that promotes independence, reduces the risk of accidents, and ensures your home remains
a comfortable and secure space as you age. Some of the areas to consider include: Remove Potential Hazards: Remove loose rugs or install non-slip mats. Ensure walkways and stairs are clear of clutter, and secure loose cables or wires. A clutter-free environment minimises the risk of tripping and falling.
Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial for safety. Install bright lighting throughout your home, paying special attention to hallways and staircases. Consider motionsensor lights for visibility at night.
Handrails and Grab Rails: Install handrails along staircases, indoors and outdoors, to provide stability and support. In bathrooms, install grab rails near the toilet, shower and bathtub to assist with balance and prevent falls.
Bathroom Safety: Bathrooms can be particularly hazardous areas. Non-slip flooring or mats can prevent accidents. A raised toilet and a shower seat can also enhance safety and comfort.
Accessibility: As mobility may become more challenging with age, consider making your home more accessible. Ramps or lifts can eliminate the need for stairs. You could also consider widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers.
Implementing these safety measures will ensure that your home remains a safe and comfortable space as you age, allowing you to continue enjoying living independently in your own home for longer.
If making a few changes to your home could make a difference for you, give Glasshouse Country Care a call on 07 5494 6948. Their team of qualified tradespeople can help with all areas of home modifications.
GREGSON & Weight is a proud local funeral business, who has been helping Sunshine Coast and Hinterland families with care and compassion since 1972.
For over 50 years they have been there to make a difficult time of life easier through personalised care and attention to detail, creating a truly fitting farewell for your loved one. They understand that saying goodbye is never easy. Their compassionate, experienced team, still led by members of the Gregson family, is there to help you celebrate your loved one’s life in the most meaningful way possible.
The family has seen many changes, and has been a leader in the funeral industry during the past five generations, from the days of the horse-drawn hearse to today’s services, which takes advantage of the remarkable technological changes, which are part of a modern funeral service.
While many things have changed, the human, caring, attentive service side of the business remains the same, and will always be of paramount importance.
Whether it’s a traditional service or something uniquely tailored, their experienced caring team will be there for you. They have outstanding facilities in each of their locations (Caloundra, Buderim, Nambour, Noosa), along with a fleet of vintage and modern hearses, offering a distinctive final journey for your loved ones and allowing you to celebrate their unique spirit, even in their farewell ride. They also offer an elegant range of cremation urns and memorial jewellery.
Gregson & Weight Funerals is a member of the Australian Funeral Directors Association, an association which has represented professional funeral directors throughout Australia since 1935. The Australian Funeral Directors Association requires its members to abide by a code of ethics, designed to ensure quality premises, facilities and professional staff, thus ensuring the public a high standard of service.
Gregson & Weight take pride in being the Sunshine Coast’s most trusted funeral business.
GLASSHOUSE Country Senior Citizens club is always ready for a fun time.
Holding monthly meetings with interesting guest speakers to hosting other seniors’ clubs to a social day of music, games, morning tea, lunch and raffles. Enjoy bus trips and social events to whoknows-where next.
Also, following the monthly meetings on the second Tuesday, there is always a crowd of seniors to be seen enjoying lunch at one of Beerwah’s eateries or at a relaxed picnic/ barbecue in the park.
FEET that last a lifetime…
It is no secret that as we get older, our bodies start to tire more easily - and the feet are no exception! Think of your age right now - this is the number of years your feet have been holding up your body during the day, walking, running, and squishing themselves into the shoes of your choice.
blood flow around your body. There are many changes to your body as we age and your feet may be the first indication of what is going on.
You will know it is time to see your podiatrist if:
1. You can’t reach or see your feet to clean or cut your nails.
2. Your feet are sore every time you put shoes on.
3. Your feet feel numb.
All seniors are welcome and encouraged to join us from 9am at Beerwah Community Hall (adjacent to Beerwah Library). The next meeting is on Tuesday 13th June. For further enquiries about this dynamic based in Maleny and offers home visit appointments.
One out of five people will experience foot pain in their lifetime. We assume our feet will keep working for us until the end of our lives…but what if they don’t? Think about what you couldn’t do without your feet…
Below are four things you can check right now to see how healthy your feet are:
1. Callus: Do you have cracks in the skin, especially around the heel (this can lead to infection).
2. Footwear: Are your shoes more than 1 year old? Do your feet hurt when wearing your shoes?
3. Pain: Do you have pain in your feet when
you walk? Does this pain stop you from living your best life?
4. Ingrown nails: Is there any redness, pain, or infection around the edges of your nails?
It is not too late to look after your feet and show them some love!
As we age, our feet change shape and so our footwear must change too. Circulation can be impeded, so exercising helps with
He then worked for a large hearing aid company as a consultant practitioner.
Ben Small has lived in the hinterland for more than 15 years and has over 25 years of experience in the hearing industry.
He has worked in both the private and public sector, including at a private practice with his mum, who is an audiologist.
Ben now runs Sounds Good, which includes services ranging from custom ear protection, testing and audiological advice, through to hearing aids and rehabilitation.
Ben is an independent practitioner, which means he can provide the best solution from any of the hearing aid manufacturers.
He can service and program aids from all hearing aid manufacturers and other businesses.
And he also offers employment hearing tests for both individuals and companies. Sounds Good uses the latest testing equipment and will soon be offering a micro suction method of wax removal.
ochrehealth.com.au
4. The pain in your feet stop you from doing what
you want.
You don’t have to live with foot pain, and getting older isn’t an excuse for unhealthy feet.
Your feet are our focus and we love what we do at Stepping Out Podiatry. Let’s get you moving again so you can enjoy life to the fullest!
Stepping Out Podiatry Ph: 1300 881 082 www.steppingoutpodiatry.com.au
Dr Sheelagh Buttanshaw MBBS, Dip (Child Health) Dr Talisha Condon FRACGP, MD, BSc, SCHP Dr Charlotte Dobson MBBS, FACRRM Dr Christelle Greeff MBBS, FRACGP Dr Stefanie Oedekoven MD, FRACGP Dr Edwin Kruys MD, FRACGP Dr Wayne Lee MBBS, BSc, MBiotech, EMCert, FRACGP Dr Chris Sadler MBBS, FRACGP Dr David Whish MBBS, FRACGPSINCE its beginnings in 1986, local non-profit RangeCare has been dedicated to serving the local community, providing in-home community care services to aged and disabled residents living in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland region and surrounding areas.
RangeCare exists to help people live independent and purposeful lives at home, by demonstrating kindness, empathy, and
focused support is engrained into the core values of RangeCare.
The organisation strives to provide as many opportunities as possible to support individuals and groups in creating lasting connections with other local community members.
In celebration of such a rich history in the local area, RangeCare will be holding a Time Capsule Dig Up Event on
the local community to attend and will be a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how far RangeCare has come since its inception and what is planned for the future of the organisation.
For more information on the event or to register your attendance please contact RangeCare on 07 5445 7044 or visit www.rangecare.com.au/
RIGHT at Home Sunshine Coast is your local, quality driven, in-home aged care and disability support provider. They provide care and support, which allows their clients to remain safe and independent in their own homes.
Right at Home Sunshine Coast is locally owned and run by Geoff and Bronwyn Cook. They aim to provide their community with the best in-home care services, when and where they need them. Bronwyn explains the care difference clients experience with Right at Home. “Right at Home’s mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve. At Right at Home, our clients, their families, and our caregivers are at the centre of everything we do.”
At Right at Home Sunshine Coast, you can expect exceptional, 24/7 customer service, 365-days a year. Right at Home is an Approved Home Care Package Provider and is a registered NDIS provider, as well as provide care and support for private pay clients.
Geoff and Bronwyn understand that care decisions for you and your loved ones are important.
“We believe in the Right Approach, so we carefully match our carers and support workers to our clients and participants. Because every
needs with a custom care plan. We also offer free supervisory visits, to ensure carers are following the Right at Home customised care plan and meeting our client’s expectations.”
Planning and organising the right home care services and supports for your loved ones can be a daunting task, so why not let the Right at Home Sunshine Coast team of highly trained and experienced staff guide you during this time of inevitable change.
Right at Home Sunshine Coast are located at 2/20 Bulcock Street, Caloundra, QLD 4551 –call 07 5301 9340 or email at care.ssc@rightathome.com.au
TOP Nosh Meals (TNM) is a family-owned business based in Beerwah, employing
home delivery service, by assisting those customers who need a hand carrying their delivery to the kitchen, unpacking, and even loading up the freezer with their meals.
TNM drivers take the time to talk to customers and check on their welfare. TNM has a courtesy reminder and repeat order service to make everything run smoothly and conveniently.
By Beerwah Dental CentreONE of the disadvantages of living with Dentures is very often it is hard to chew some of your favourite foods, such as biting into a juicy apple or eating a steak. But if you are currently wearing dentures, or believe you may need dentures in the future, there is a better way – Dr Michel Zabik’s ‘Snap-In Denture’
The Snap-In Denture system secures the denture using two or more Dental Implants and, because the system only uses a few Dental Implants, it is far more cost-effective than using multiple Implants.
One of the other main advantages of Snap In Dentures, is only a very small minority of people are unsuitable.
If you’re one of the thousands of people living with loose and uncomfortable removable dentures, have a bridge, or are losing or missing teeth, then a Snap In Denture may indeed be the perfect restorative solution for your smile.
However, as with any dental procedure, it’s important to have good oral and general health. Therefore, at your initial consultation, we will discuss the process
with you in detail and answer any questions you may have in non-medical terminology, as we want you to be completely comfortable and fully understand the process.
We may also take detailed X-rays to assess your bone structure and determine the optimal placement areas for your implants. We will then develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
If you no longer wish to wear loose and uncomfortable dentures, have been told you’re unsuitable for dental implants, are missing teeth or want an alternative to dental bridges, then a Snap In Denture may just be the perfect restorative solution for you.
If you would like to know more about if the Snap-In Denture System could be right for you, simply call Beerwah Dental on 07 5494 0766 to arrange a time for a consultation or you can book online at www.beerwahdental.com.au or alternatively, you can call Woombye Dental on 07 5442 2136 to arrange a consultation or you can book online here https://www.woombyedental.com.au/
Their menus have special offers and are updated twice yearly. Eligible customers on HCP or the NDIS can receive 70 per cent subsidy on TNM meals (conditions apply).
When a flashlight grows dim or quits working, do you just throw it away?
Of course not. You change the batteries.
When a person messes up or finds themselves in a dark place, do you cast them aside?
Of course not! You help them change their batteries.
Some need AA... attention and affection; some need AAA... attention, affection and acceptance; some need C... compassion; some need D... direction.
And if they still don’t seem to shine... simply sit with them quietly and share your light.
