Seniors Plan 2007 - City of Stirling - The Western Australian ...

Strategy 4 – Assist and encourage older people to be involved in community
activities.
Many people seeking new leisure activities at this stage of their life are doing so because they have
undergone a major life transition, e.g. retirement from a job where they were valued and respected,
the loss of a partner, significant family members moving away, a change in financial status or a
deterioration in health. Because it is no longer possible or practical to maintain their previous activities
and social contacts, they need to make new connections. To try something new at any stage of life
requires considerable courage. Those who are successful are rewarded with a network of friendship
and support. Those who are unable or unwilling to take the risks involved may be in danger of social
isolation. Research has shown that social isolation is a major contributory factor to depression and
physical illness. Thus it is important that older people are helped and supported in establishing new
connections within their community.
Action Responsibility Timeline
1.4.2 Encourage groups to develop a practice
of welcoming and introducing new and
prospective members.
1.4.3 Make every effort to ensure that buildings
and spaces used for seniors’ activities
are inviting and comfortable.
1.4.4 Develop areas where seniors can relax in
comfortable surroundings. Make available
board games and jigsaw puzzles.
1.4.5 Encourage shopping centres to establish
areas where seniors can relax in
comfortable surroundings.
1.4.6 Make food and drink available at
reasonable prices at Seniors Centres.
1.4.7 Give seniors the opportunity to try new
activities through a programme of outings,
activities, discussions and social events.
1.4.8 Expand the City of Stirling Volunteer Service
to include the recruitment and training of
volunteers to work in a variety of fields.
1.4.9 Support existing and new community groups
using City of Stirling premises through
reasonably priced and reliable rental of
rooms, publicity in City of Stirling publications
and assistance with management issues
through the Clubs Forever programme.
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
All business units in
conjunction with City
Building Operations
Community Services
Library and Information
Services
Community Services
Community Services
Health and Compliance
Community Services
Community Services
Community Services
Recreation and Cultural
Services
Library and Information
Services
From
2007/8
As
required
Ongoing
Ongoing
From
2008/9
From
2008/9
Ongoing
Ongoing
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