Camden Council has launched Camden Active Ageing Strategy, a 10 year plan to support the lives of older people by improving transport options, access to information and community services.
Between 2016 and 2026, the forecast population of people over the age of 65 in the Camden area is expected to grow by more than 57 per cent, accounting for 20 per cent of the total Camden population.
The community consultation revealed that the main issues of concern for senior residents in Camden were access to information, public transport options and involvement in decision making.
The strategy outlines plans to address these issues in the short and long term that will be conducted by Council and other service providers.
Some of these include providing driver, mobility scooter and pedestrian safety education programs, advocating transport services to improve the user experience for older people and work with local businesses to provide recharge points for electric scooters across the area.
More internet training options for seniors will be addressed in the short term as well as increasing access to technology across the area and improving access to information on Council’s website.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“It is important that we create an environment that supports senior residents to achieve the lifestyle that they want,” says deputy mayor Theresa Fedeli.[/social_quote]
“We know that a more connected community ultimately leads to a more active and healthy life and this strategy will help council to achieve that,” Cr Fedeli said.
“This strategy outlines the key concerns of older residents raised during consultation activities, and how council and other relevant organisations can address these issues,” she said.
• Aboriginal culture and heritage will be honoured at a special flag raising ceremony and community fun day at Camden’s NAIDOC Week celebrations next Tuesday, July 4, from 10.30am at 70 Central Avenue, Oran Park.
Special guest performances will feature Christine Anu, Shannell Dargan, the Wiritjiribin Dance Group and the Koomurri Wamban Birrays.
“The whole community is invited to come along and celebrate the history, culture and accomplishments of Indigenous people,” Cr Fedeli said.
• Applications will be open between July 3 and 24 for Camden community groups interested in getting funding under council’s community small grants program.
Camden Council has allocated $85,700 for the 2017/18 financial year and increased the maximum allocation for each project from $5,000 to $6,500.
