Advocare recently presented a Seniors Peak Body Forum to bring together representatives from community service organisations, age-friendly local governments, seniors’ groups and academics to help shape the future work of the Seniors Peak Body.
The purpose of the Seniors Peak Body is to help older Western Australians to feel supported, connected and heard. This forum was planned as an opportunity to harness voices of experience and insight for collective impact, and the morning was filled with great conversations and powerful ideas.
A strong message emerged that being well informed of their rights and what is available to them is key to older people feeling empowered and in control of their lives. Although this holds true at any age, the later stages of adult life often require navigation of complex systems, and the right information can be difficult to access.
Emerging themes of the day
- The majority of older people wishing to remain in their own home for as long as possible was recognised by forum participants. Conversations around this included physical safety, appropriate support in the home to remain independent, risk of homelessness, and suggestions for government support to enable downsizing.
- Safety overall, was viewed in a broad sense, including emotional, financial and social wellbeing. Concerns were raised about scams and misuse of legal powers like Enduring Power of Attorney agreements. Participants stressed the need to address ageism and elder abuse, and to ensure older people are treated with respect and dignity.
- Social isolation remains a major issue, particularly in regional areas. Losing a driver’s licence or access to transport can severely limit social connection. There was strong interest in user-friendly, intergenerational spaces and community hubs that help foster belonging.
- Digital inclusion and access to clear information were also raised as critical issues. Many seniors struggle with online systems, and the move away from face-to-face services and cash-based transactions has created new barriers.
Workshopping time, L to R: Mark Kinsela (COTA WA) and our CEO, Bev Jowle
Hearing, listening and participation is key
Throughout the forum, participants emphasised the importance of raising the voices of seniors in decision-making. Meaningful representation was a consistent theme, along with stronger collaboration across government, health, justice, and community sectors. The Seniors Peak Body was seen as a key driver of this work, with a central role in building partnerships, supporting advocacy, and promoting age-friendly communities.
The forum’s outcomes provide a clear direction for our future work, ensuring that seniors are supported and empowered to age well wherever they choose to be. Stay in touch with us for more opportunities to engage with the Seniors Peak and have your say in the things that matter to you.
Follow us on our social media channels (Facebook and LinkedIn), keep an eye out for news in future editions of Advocare Newsbites, or email us at seniorspeak@advocare.org.au
(Thanks to our Seniors Peak Manager, Bianca Marson Whait, for this article).
