9 minute read
PENINSULA SENIORS LOVING LIFE - FEATURE
STAGE OF LIFE: HOW TRIPS TO THE THEATRE IMPROVE WELLBEING
When Gordon Dunlop retired and settled into life on the peninsula, he sought ways to keep his mind active and his spirit connected to the arts. That’s when he discovered the Frankston Arts Centre (FAC). "I became a member because there’s stimulating and affordable programming, which also meant I do not have to travel into the city as much for good theatre," he shares.
As our lifespans extend, finding meaningful ways to engage becomes crucial. Attending theatre shows provides opportunities for socialising with others and reducing the risk of loneliness, which is especially important for seniors. While few formal studies exist on the benefits of theatre for aging minds, countless personal experiences echo Gordon’s sentiment: experiencing live performance positively impacts both mental and social wellbeing.
Gordon often attends shows solo, yet he finds no shortage of connection. "I strike up chats with strangers about the performances we are seeing," he says. "I consider my FAC membership an important part of my cultural life now, and a way into some social engagement in my new life."
When asked what draws him to live performances, Gordon is quick to respond: "It has a physical intensity, spontaneity, and intimacy that cannot be matched in cinematic, televisual, or online performance... there is a shared communal experience."
Engaging with the arts, particularly live performance, has been linked to improved health and wellbeing across all ages. The experience can be a form of escapism decreasing anxiety, reduce feelings of loneliness, and boost a sense of value and purpose. It also stimulates the imagination, offering emotional nourishment that resonates long after the curtain falls.
Colin and Myrtle Hughes, also members of the Frankston Arts Centre, agree wholeheartedly. "Live theatre is just priceless in its
embrace," Colin says. "The experience often touches you deeply, and that’s enhanced by sharing it with those around you."
"We typically go together," Myrtle adds, "but we know we’ll see many friends there—people we meet every time, including the staff."
Asked to name their favourite show, Colin and Myrtle struggle to choose. "Top of the list would be the Sydney Dance Theatre with their exquisite, heart-wrenching performances. But we’re just as impressed by the local talent from the Peninsula Light Opera Society, whose musicals are as good as anything in the city or overseas."
What makes the FAC so special, they agree, is the variety. "You have the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, international opera and ballet companies, Australian playwrights, musicians, dancers, comedians, and choirs—all just 15 minutes from your door. It’s an almost unattainable cascade of entertainment!"
The Frankston Arts Centre provides more than just entertainment; it fosters a sense of community and connection. For many, like Gordon, Colin, and Myrtle, it's a gateway to cultural enrichment and social engagement. With a diverse array of performances and events right on their doorstep, members enjoy an enriching experience that enhances their overall quality of life.
You can join the Frankston Arts Centre as a Member at any time of year for the low cost of $50 for an Individual or $100 for a Joint Membership. Benefits include discounted tickets, invitations to the annual Season launch event, priority bar service, deferred payment for tickets and pre-sale opportunities. Keep up to date about upcoming shows on our website and subscribe to e-news to hear first about new shows on sale.
W: thefac.com.au
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SUPERBLY CRAFTED RETIREMENT LIVING
You’ll revel in the benefits of smartly designed one- and twobedroom villas in a keyless swipe-to-enter gated community set among stunningly landscaped gardens.
With gardens and walking paths arranged around the beautifully appointed clubhouse, its pedestrian-friendly village layout connects residents to friends and neighbours, and to the village’s social hub.
You’ll revel in the benefits of smartly designed one- and twobedroom villas in a keyless swipe-to-enter gated community set among stunningly landscaped gardens.
Peninsula Lifestyle Retirement Village delivers retirement living at its best.
W: peninsulalifestyleretirementvillage.com.au
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ENCARA
Encara's in-home Dementia Rehabilitation Program offers a comprehensive, evidence-based program that integrates therapy and education to support and enhance the well-being and quality of life of our participants and their care partners.
Over the 12 weeks, our Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists work with each participant and their families to understand their needs and establish personal program goals. Participants also have access to Encara's Podiatrists, Speech Therapists, and Dietitians throughout the program, in addition to other opt-in offerings such as art therapy, aromatherapy, and the opportunity to participate in community events and activities. This program is funded by the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network.
W: encara.com.au
P; 1300 761 965
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OBJECTS AND FAMILY LIFE
We live surrounded by objects, but have you thought about how important these things are in your life? Do you have a few favourite things you absolutely can’t live without? ‘Belongings: Objects and Family Life’ is a free exhibition at the Old Treasury Building, Melbourne. Discover the history of everyday items, how the family have shaped them, and how they’ve shaped the family!
On October 9 at 11am, join us for a free online talk ‘Princess for a day: the wedding dress in Victoria, 1840-2024’. Where did the many ‘traditions’ of the wedding day come from, and did the bride always wear white? Join Margaret Anderson as she looks at the history of weddings and the wedding dress in Victoria, with some surprising results! Bookings essential, go to website for details.
W: otb.org.au
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WHY YOU NEED A HOME LIFT
For owners of multi-level dwellings, installing a residential lift is arguably the most transformative upgrade you can undertake to make your home more accessible and liveable through your retirement years.
Add convenience to your home
It's easy to slip or miss a step while going downstairs, especially when carrying heavy items like groceries, laundry, or suitcases. If you plan to enjoy your retirement in a double-storey home, addressing the issue of stairs is crucial, as a fall can dramatically affect your plans.
Installing a residential lift allows people to navigate stairs safely and makes everyday life easier. Historically, elevators were too expensive for most homeowners. However, with the invention of RESiLIFT®, the world’s first shaftless, through-floor lift, elevators are now more affordable and fit seamlessly into any home.
Enjoy your home longer
Future-proofing means preparing your home for potential changes in mobility that you or your loved ones may experience. As people age, their mobility needs often change, making it essential to equip your home with features that help you adapt. By doing so, you can continue to enjoy your home comfortably and safely for as long as possible.
Some people who install RESiLIFT® find the lift to be a lifesaver when faced with an unexpected diagnosis, injury, or surgery. In such situations, it’s reassuring to know that the challenge of stairs is removed, allowing you to stay in your home. Conversely, if the owner of a two-story home suffers a medical setback, managing daily life and rehabilitation becomes even more difficult if they haven’t installed a lift.
Avoid a move
People of a certain age often consider whether they should move to a smaller home. This options has many financial, social and emotional implications and it is difficult to find a single-storey home.
Installing a residential lift helps people avoid moving by overcoming the challenge of stairs. Furthermore, depending on the type of elevator chosen, the cost of installing a home elevator may be more affordable than purchasing a new home, with its associated legal, loan, and stamp duty fees.
Beyond saving time and money, staying in the same home allows people to remain connected to family memories and the community they love. It is more difficult for older individuals to build new friendships in a different area than to maintain relationships in their current neighbourhood.
RESiLIFT has helped thousands of Australians avoid a move. The lift makes life as convenient as living in a single-level dwelling, and for many customers, it’s the only way they can remain in their home.
The advantages of adding a residential lift are too numerous to address here. From hosting elderly friends and relatives, to enjoying your home longer and making everyday life easier, it’s no wonder they’re becoming more common.
The beauty of RESiLIFT® is its simplicity. It was specifically invented for the residential market, has minimal visual impact and is easily installed in existing or new homes.
If you’re considering a residential lift, contact Elevation Creations, your local RESiLIFT® distributor.
P: 1300 303 522
W: resilift.com.au
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START PLANNING YOUR 2025 WINTER GETAWAY
As a family-owned travel company, Lamble Tours has been proudly delivering unforgettable experiences and cherished memories for individuals and groups for 30 years. Our carefully crafted itineraries offer something for everyone, providing both informative and enjoyable holidays suitable for all abilities – with no hidden costs!
We also stress the importance of securing travel insurance. Please make sure your policy includes COVID-19 coverage.
With Lamble Tours, you'll have the chance to meet new friends and travel with like-minded companions. All of our tours include a convenient home pick-up and return service for residents in the metropolitan area and the Mornington Peninsula.
For your peace of mind, your holiday begins the moment we pick you up right at your front door on the Mornington Peninsula.
P: 0418 853 810
W: lambletours.com.au
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NEVILLE CROWE’S LEGACY
The bequest program, “Neville Crowe’s Legacy”, offers generous supporters an opportunity to leave a Gift in their Will, ensuring their legacy will keep the roar alive for generations to come. Bequests are invested into an Endowment Fund, building a financially sustainable Club and allowing a Gift to become a legacy remaining in perpetuity.
The future of Richmond Football Club is not just about on-field success but the ability to deliver Community Outreach programs. These include Leadership and Sporting programs at the Korin Gamadji Institute, a centre for cultural strength and learning for Indigenous Youth and Richmond’s Wheelchair Football team. RFC is a champion of inclusion, diversity, and helping individuals achieve their goals.
Contact details below for more information about leaving a Gift in your Will to Richmond Football Club and the impact you can have for generations to come.
