Ageing with assurance

By Matt Romania

It’s a disturbing fact that one in six seniors over the age of 65 experience elder abuse within a single year. Recognising this critical issue, Gary Ferguson of Seniors’ Rights Victoria has structured a series of workshops set for October, aimed at empowering Bacchus Marsh seniors.

“Each of the sessions will give seniors the opportunity to learn and protect their rights as they age. The talks will be relaxed and interactive,” he told The Moorabool News.

The Protecting your rights session, set for Monday, 9 October, will touch upon the various facets of elder abuse and the best approaches to ensure the elderly’s decisions are respected going forward.

On 16 October, Mr Ferguson’s Money, Ageing & Family talk will navigate the complex waters of changing living conditions for the elderly, underscoring the importance of understanding the details of Enduring Powers of Attorney.

Lastly, the Planning Ahead workshop on 23 October takes a deep dive into matters of Supportive Attorney, Medical Decision Making, and Advanced Care Directives. It’s an opportunity for participants to gain clarity on how they’d like their later years to unfold.

Highlighting important steps in preventing elder abuse, Mr Ferguson shared that planning is key.

“The obvious way to prevent elder abuse is to have plans in place to protect your rights,” he said.

Mr Ferguson also noted the risk posed by social isolation among seniors and advocated for community connection.

“Staying connected might seem a simple way that people can prevent elder abuse… looking at different ways to connect, such as using the local library, for those who don’t want to join groups will be part of the talks.”

Early intervention can also be a game-changer in warding off potential issues.

“At Seniors Rights Victoria, we find that talking about issues of concern early and as they arise can be good practice for talking about elder abuse when it occurs.”

Mr Ferguson said the talks aim to equip people to make their own choices and assert them when needed.

For booking details, visit the Moorabool Shire Council website or contact the Aged and Disability Community Liaison Officer at 5366 7100.