Each year, International Day of Older Persons is celebrated on the first day of October. This year, 1 October has also been declared Ageism Awareness Day by Every Age Counts (EAC), a coalition of organisations seeking to address ageism in Australia. Compared to other forms of discrimination, ageism is not well known or understood. This […]
Having recently ventured into the world of caravanning, I have some experiences and tips to share with others about to embark on this adventure. We’re now on our third ‘rig’ in around 10 years: we started with a Pioneer camper (for which our car was unsuitable); moved on to a Concept ‘Vision’ with an awkward
I began my radio career as a cadet at 2AY Albury. After a three-year break studying theology, I returned to radio as the Breakfast Announcer for 3NE Wangaratta before moving on to BCV Channel 8 in Bendigo. There I produced and presented a daily children’s program, read news bulletins and did live commercials and booth
The Victorian Government is setting up around 60 Local Adult and Older Adult Mental Health and Wellbeing Services (known as Local Services) across Victoria. The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System recommended the creation of a future mental health and wellbeing system that’s based in the community. Local Services are an important part of
The Victorian Seniors Festival theme for 2021 – keep’n on – recognises the resilience of senior Victorians. Sadly, live events planned for the Melbourne CBD have been cancelled due to ongoing lockdowns and public health concerns. But while we may not be able to get together in person, we can still come together online to
Women’s Health Week starts on September 6 and is a great reminder for all women to check in on their health. We recap some of the top health issues for women. First, let’s talk exercise. Exercise remains a bona fide and safe antidote for every chronic condition. Weight-bearing exercise is essential for both muscle and
Grass pollen season brings an increase in asthma and hay fever. It also brings the chance of thunderstorm asthma. For people with asthma or hay fever, especially those who experience wheezing or coughing with their hay fever, thunderstorm asthma can be sudden, serious and even life threatening. That’s why it’s important for people with asthma
Older Victorians continue to experience high rates of digital exclusion. This places them at increased risk of becoming marginalised and disempowered as more and more services move online. It is critical that all Victorians can access the information and services they need in this ever-changing world. As such, this position statement sets out our expectations
The term “assistive technology” refers to any aid, piece of equipment or home modification that helps someone overcome the impact of disability or ageing. Grab rails, ramps, chair lifts, hoists, prosthetic aids, wheelchairs and electric scooters are all examples of assistive technology. While assistive technology can be fully funded under the NDIS, many older people
Welcome to the August edition of COTA Connects. As I write, we are once again eagerly awaiting an announcement about whether lockdown restrictions will continue or be eased. Victorians are used to this by now, but it’s still a tough way to live, and my wish for our readers is that you are ok. If
COTA Victoria Board member Lynette Moore is retiring from her governance role after 11 years passionately devoted to supporting older people to live their best lives. A long-time advocate, Lynette Moore brought experience from her 30-year career in aged care and disability services to her role at COTA Victoria, seeking to instil in the organisation
Alexia is in her 60s and living in a Melbourne suburb that has experienced outbreaks. Like many people, Alexia was initially hesitant about getting the COVID-19 vaccine. But two jabs later, she feels both relief and hope for the future. So what changed her mind? Alexia was fearful after reading stories about thrombosis in combination
