The key to ageing well

Published on 24 June 2015

With a climate and services that make this region fantastic for those looking to retire, Mildura Rural City Council is developing a new strategy to make sure over 55’s have everything they need to support a long-term healthy lifestyle.

The Healthy Ageing Strategy will assist Council in planning for future Aged Care services to ensure the appropriate support is available to meet the needs of this important demographic in our community.

Community Wellbeing and Services portfolio Councillor Sharyon Peart said the first step in developing the strategy is looking at what services are currently offered locally and what else people would like to see.

“We know that as people age, their priorities change,” she said.  “There can be a huge difference between what a 60 year-old resident needs and wants, and what an 80 year-old needs and wants.”

In preparation for the strategy, Council has developed a short survey to start the consultation and conversation around what is important locally. 

“The survey asks you to let us know what you like about our community, what concerns you most about ageing in our community and what you think you need to age healthily,” Cr Peart explained. 

“We will be consulting widely with a range of stakeholders including healthcare professionals, sports and fitness professionals, nutritionists and social services. It’s also the people who access these services who will be able to give us the most insight into what they need to continue to stay healthy and active in our community.”

The survey is open until Friday 17 July 2015 and is available online at www.mildura.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay, in hard copy at Council service Centres and libraries or by contacting Aged and Disability Services on (03) 5018 8100.

ENDS