Freedom to stay at home

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Most older Australians would likely prefer to stay in their own homes for as long as they can.

Macedon Ranges council will support them to do so, by holding free information sessions for older residents, their families and their carers about the Commonwealth Home Support Programme services.

The information sessions, taking place during April and May, will be general in nature and will help residents to find Commonwealth Home Support Program at organisations across the municipality.

Some examples of support offered through the program include support to attend appointments and activities, domestic assistance, personal care home maintenance and modifications to keep them safe for living, aids and equipment, meals, nursing, allied health, social support and respite.

Council community director Maria Weiss said the home support program services are important in helping the area’s older people stay active members of the community.

“We encourage older residents and their families to come along to an information session to find out what support is available in the shire to help them stay independent and living safely in their own home,” she said.

Council said the information sessions will help to explain more about the program and who can benefit from it, what can be accessed locally, as well as costs.

From 10am to noon, the sessions are happening at Kyneton Mechanics Institute on April 26, Riddells Creek Community Centre on May 3, Woodend Community Centre on May 12, Romsey Mechanics Institute on May 17, Macedon Community Centre on May 23 and online on May 30.

To register for a session, contact Stephanie Harper on 5422 0258 or sharper@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Elsie Lange