Social Program Combats Isolation for Perth Seniors  

Social isolation can be as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and, with the number of lone person households in WA increasing, there’s a growing need to cushion the impact of loneliness on health. A Perth social outings program is making a real difference.

The Spirkovskis are a Perth family with experience of the impact loneliness can have on an older person. Their mother, Luba (66) from Westminster, has suffered from cancer, diabetes and bipolar disorder.

Originally from Macedonia, English is her second language, so Luba was dependent on her late husband and didn’t have many friends. Luba’s son, Alex, explains: “My dad did everything for mum, so after his death, she went downhill. She wasn’t leaving the house and her health suffered.”  

The family arranged for home care services from Amana Living to help their mum with the cleaning and then discovered they also offered a social program, Amana Living Kites. The program enables seniors to get out and enjoy life with like­-minded people with the reassurance of support being on hand if needed.

Since taking part in the program for the past year, Luba’s health and wellbeing have improved so much that  she no longer needs home care visits. Alex has been amazed at the change in his mum: “I honestly didn’t think Mum would go on an outing, but she did and now rarely misses a trip.

She is much more confident since joining Amana Living Kites. It’s pushed her outside of her comfort zone and she’s met new people. It was a big step for her but she loves it.” Ray Glickman, CEO of Amana Living, said: “This is a great outcome for Luba. Social isolation affects around 20% of older Australians, and really can stop people from living a fulfilling life as they age. It’s vital we have programs in place like Amana Living Kites to help older people stay connected and active.”

The Amana Living Kites program has run for 15 years and demand is growing. The program is funded by HACC (Home & Community Care) to enable those living in the community to maintain health, wellbeing and social contact, and to give carers a period of respite. Outings run Monday to Saturday and destinations include Hillarys, Fremantle, Toodyay, the Swan Valley, Araluen and Kings  Park.

Click here to find out more about Amana Living's aged care services.

Picture supplied by the Community Newspaper Group