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Report moves South West closer to becoming a more age-friendly region

Thursday, 8 July 2010

The South West is a step closer to becoming a more age-friendly region, following the release of a report by the South West Development Commission.

The South West Active Ageing Research Project report identifies the needs of the South West's ageing population and sets out ideas to make the region more age-friendly.

Blackwood-Stirling MLA Terry Redman, who launched the report at Stinton Gardens Estate in Greenbushes today, said the study highlighted what can be done to assist people to age actively and further promote the inclusion of seniors in all areas of community life.

"Over the next 10 years the biggest area of growth for our population will be in the over 50 years bracket," he said.

"This has implications for our housing, townscapes, recreational facilities and services.

"The report sets out planning tools for both services and for urban design to make our communities more age-friendly for everyone."

South West Development Commission chief executive officer Don Punch said the report highlighted the changing needs of people as they grow older.

"The report provides ideas for keeping people active and involved in their community both through the way we design and build public areas and housing and also the kinds of services we provide," he said.

"Growing older is not about moving from over fifties accommodation to aged care to a nursing home. It is about being at home, being able to keep friendships and being able to engage with the local community."

Mr Punch said the report identified key infrastructure and service requirements in each sub-region.

"As well as showing how the wellbeing of older people can be enhanced through improving areas such as community transport systems or providing access to lifetime learning, the report also looks at how towns can be improved for seniors," he said.

"The development of appropriate housing models for older people, upgrading urban design and ensuring adequate service provision are just some of the priorities listed in the report."

…ENDS

Media contact:
Teneille Watson
Community Relations Officer
M: 0417 961 051

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South West Active Ageing Research Project steering committee members Jackie Massey, Anna Oades and Linda Jackson

South West Active Ageing Research Project steering committee members Jackie Massey, Anna Oades and Linda Jackson.