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Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan 2012 – 2016

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Table of Contents Executive Summary 4

Background to the Project 6 Policy Context 7 1.1 Policy Overview 7 1.2 Community Care 9

1.3 Home and Community Care (HACC ) 10 Snapshot for Golden Plains Shire 12 2.1 Snapshot of key data 12

2.2 Population Growth 13 2.3 What are people doing with their time? 15 2.4 Social Connectedness 15 2.5 Health Status 16 2.6 Cultural Diversity 16 2.7 Education Status 16 Links with other Golden Plains Plans (Strategic Planning Framework) 17 Principles for the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan 19 Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan 20

Appendix 1: Summary of key themes and recommendations from Background Paper

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List of Tables and Figures Table 1: Selected key statistics for Golden Plains LGA 12

Table 2: Summary of key population growth 2006 to 2026 (SLA and gender) 14

Figure 1: Percentage population change by age group Victoria, Grampians Region and Golden Plains Shire 2006-2026

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Figure 2: Population change by age group Golden Plains Shire 2006-2026 14 Figure 3: Relationship between the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and

Action Plan and other Council Strategies 18

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Glossary of Terms ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics

ACFE Adult Community and Further Education ATSI Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander BCH Ballarat Community Health BDNH Ballarat District Nursing & Healthcare

CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse COTA Council of the Ageing GP General Practitioner HACC Home and Community Care LGA Local Government Area MAV Municipal Association of Victoria MSS Municipal Strategic Statement NBN National Broadband Network OSV Office of Senior Victorians PAG Planned Activity Group SEIFA Socio Economic Indexes for Areas SLA Statistical Local Area U3A University of the 3rd Age WHO World Health Organisation


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Executive Summary The Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan was commissioned in June 2011. The project has involved a review of the available data and current policy context as well as undertaking an extensive consultation process across the Shire. This Strategy and Action Plan provides a summary of this information, and presents the principles, objectives, actions and outcome measures to support Ageing Well in Golden Plains Shire. The data review and summary of the consultation themes have been provided in a companion Background Paper which provides the detail for this Strategy and Action Plan. A summary of key themes and recommendations from the Background Paper are included in Appendix 1. The data review has focused on evidence available from a range of sources for people in age groups over 45 years, including some additional analysis for older age groups (e.g. 75+ and 85+ age groups). When reviewing the data for these age groups (and considering gender), some specific themes have emerged, including: • By 2026, the total population aged 85+ across the Shire will increase by over 200% • By 2026, females aged 85+ in the Shire will increase by over 300% • By 2026, females aged 75-79 years in the northwest SLA will increase by over 400% • There is a higher percentage of both men and women aged 65+ working full time in the

labour force (compared to Victoria). When reviewed by occupation, many of these are in agriculture, forestry and fishing

• There is a lower percentage of women aged 65+ who work part time (compared to Victoria).

• There are lower percentages of women (aged 65+, 75+ and 85+) who live alone (compared to Victoria).

• There is a lower percentage of people reporting poor or fair health status (compared to Victoria).

• There is a lower percentage of people aged 65+ born overseas (compared to Victoria). • There is a lower percentage of people aged 45+ with Bachelor or postgraduate

degrees (compared to Victoria). An overview of current policy indicates a worldwide trend towards an ageing population. Both Australian and Victorian policy initiatives have focused on “ageing in place”, where individuals are supported within their own communities with additional services available if required. Support for carers has been consistently highlighted in policy initiatives. Policies that are based on the social model of health and support care within the community are widespread, some of which include community health, health promotion and social inclusion initiatives. The Home and Community Care (HACC) program is also supporting individuals to remain at home and within their own communities and includes new initiatives such as the Active Service Model. This data and policy context has clear implications for Golden Plains Shire. The population in the Shire is ageing quickly, and the percentage (and number) of persons in the 75+and 85+ age groups is increasing rapidly. This leads to significant increases in the number of persons who live alone, and who may require Council services and assistance to remain in their communities. This has implications for planning for smaller residential housing/units,


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safe walking paths and the built environment, as well as access to a range of health and community services and activities that support social connectedness. In addition, the data indicates a higher percentage of both men and women aged 65+ who are working full time, many in the farming industries. This group also have specific needs and require different strategies to engage them with health and community services. Policy directions indicate strong support for people to remain living independently in their communities with appropriate support for as long as possible. This has implications for all levels of government. For the development of the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan, community consultation processes were undertaken during August 2011, with seven focus groups and a total of 65 participants. Participants were invited from a range of community based groups, specifically including senior citizens groups, community groups and individuals who participated in services (e.g. Planned Activity Groups). Councillor consultation occurred in October 2011, with a specific Councillor workshop to explore Ageing Well across the Shire. Consultation with Council staff was conducted in early December 2011 and specifically focused on the development of the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan. Summary of Themes Several themes emerged during the review of the data and the policy context and were also identified during the community consultation process. The following themes have been developed from specific recommendations identified during these processes. A summary of these recommendations are in Appendix 1. As noted above, the data review, summary of the consultation themes and full recommendations have been provided in the Background Paper which provides the detail for this Strategy and Action Plan. Theme 1: Implement HACC Priorities Theme 2: Focus on groups with the greatest disadvantage and highest need in Ageing

Well initiatives Theme 3: Promote access to a range of community based activities that support ageing

within communities Theme 4: Promote access to health and community services that support ageing within

communities Theme 5: Promote and embrace diversity Theme 6: Use a range of communication strategies to support Ageing Well within

communities


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Background to the Project Golden Plains Shire Council provides a range of HACC services, including HACC assessments, domestic assistance, personal care, respite care, meals on wheels, Planned Activity Groups (PAGs) and the ‘No Falls’ program. Council also provides disability respite and community transport. The Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan reflects the principles of person centred care and the HACC Active Service Model, links with the social determinants of health and reflects the aspirations of older residents. There are 4 HACC service providers in the Shire, including Ballarat District Nursing & Healthcare (BDNH), Hesse Rural Health, Beaufort & Skipton Health Service and Ballarat Community Health (BCH). There are two other key service providers, Ballarat Health Services and Barwon Health. These service providers deliver a range of health and wellbeing programs across the Shire, including District Nursing, Podiatry, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Dietitian and Community Nursing. There are six Senior Citizens groups operating across the Shire, based at Bannockburn, Smythesdale, Rokewood, Meredith, Inverleigh and Linton. There are also Planned Activity Groups and a number of community groups which support positive ageing activities. These groups include Probus Clubs, community based activity groups (based in health and wellbeing groups through the community centres in Dereel, Bannockburn and Smythesdale/Haddon), Lions Clubs and other sport/recreation groups. The goals of the Strategy and Action Plan are to: • Inform the direction, development and delivery of Council’s Aged services and

programs for the period 2011 – 2016, identifying innovative local based solutions to issues.

• Enable Council to effectively respond to population growth and associated demands and pressures for aged services and programs.

• Provide a framework for planning, advocacy and collaborative partnerships with the community to maximise opportunities to ‘live well – age well’.

• Ensure that linkages and collaboration with all other areas of council operations are maximised.


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Policy Context

1.1 Policy Overview Ageing Well and “Ageing in Place” The World Health Organisation (WHO) developed an Active Ageing framework in 2002. Active ageing was defined as:

“the process of optimising opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age”

The Australian Psychological Society has defined positive ageing as:

“the process of maintaining a positive attitude, feeling good about yourself, keeping fit and healthy, and engaging fully in life as you age.”

Both of these definitions support ageing well, with an emphasis on developing policies and action plans that are based on healthy and active ageing principles. This includes the development of plans that incorporate health promotion, health education, an emphasis on wellbeing and social connectedness and a range of strategies based on the social determinants of health. There is recognition that people should be able to make their own life choices, and that this may mean higher levels of risk. Carers are acknowledged as key people in the system and should be adequately supported (Productivity Commission Report 2011 – Caring for Older Australians). “Ageing in place” is based on the principle of an individual staying in the home for as long as possible, and recognises that seniors have requirements that impact on housing and public infrastructure. The consequence is that there are increasing numbers of individuals who are living alone and who need assistance to remain in their own homes. This involves strong links within the community and supports that are local where possible. The need for regular and updated information to support individuals who choose “ageing in place” is a key component. Ageing population Across the world, there is a consistent trend towards an ageing population, with significant increases in the number of people aged 55 years and over (United Nations, 2000). Australia will also be impacted by these changes, influenced by falling fertility rates, increasing life expectancy and the effects of the “baby boomer” generation (born between 1946 and 1964) who are now moving into the older age groups. It is commonly reported that the number of people aged 60 years and over (classified as “seniors”) is estimated to be one in four Australians by 2020. As a natural consequence, there has been a significant shift in policy direction to ensure that the quality of life for older people is maintained. It is widely recognised and acknowledged that many older people prefer to remain living in their own homes and that a range of appropriate strategies are required to support this in practice at the local level.


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Some of these community based initiatives include healthy ageing, ageing in place, falls prevention and chronic disease programs and strategies. Other initiatives aim to support the quality of care reforms in residential aged care facilities. The National Reform Agenda includes a commitment between the Commonwealth and State governments to review the funding and policy responsibility for aged care services. Victoria has agreed that it will work in partnership with the Commonwealth to deliver Home and Community Care (HACC) services. Further reforms in aged care are being considered as part of this Reform Agenda. Caring for Older Australians (Productivity Commission, June 2011) This Productivity Commission Review provided some key principles to guide future policy development, including an aged care system that aims to: • Promote the independence and wellness of older Australians and their continuing

contribution to society • Ensure that all older Australians needing care and support have access to person-

centred services that can change as their needs change • Be consumer-directed, allowing older Australians to have choice and control over their

lives and to die well • Treat older Australians receiving care and support with dignity and respect • Be easy to navigate, with older Australians knowing what care and support is available

and how to access those services • Assist informal carers to perform their caring role • Be affordable for those requiring care and for society more generally • Provide incentives to ensure the efficient use of resources devoted to caring for older

Australians and broadly equitable contributions between generations.


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1.2 Community Care “Positive Ageing” in Victoria The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), Council on the Ageing (COTA) and the Office of Senior Victorians (OSV) worked together to develop the Victorian Local Government Positive Ageing Project 2005-2009. This project provided direct grants to Local Governments across Victoria to develop Positive Ageing Plans to support individuals to remain in their communities and to age positively. This project was completed in 2009, with several positive outcomes which continue to be implemented across Victoria. Chronic Disease Management All primary health funded agencies are required to strengthen their role in providing integrated and coordinated services for people with chronic disease and conditions and/or complex needs. This approach is focused towards keeping people as well as possible rather than responding to illness. Preventative measures are supported by empowering, systematic and coordinated care that includes regular screening, support for self management, and assistance to make lifestyle and behaviour changes. Within Victoria, this program has close links with the Primary Care Partnerships to support a coordinated approach to planning and delivery of health services across the catchment areas. The Early Intervention in Chronic Disease program targets early intervention services, and has guiding principles that include person centred care, active engagement of consumers in the management of disease, and the right care being provided at the right time. (Source: Australian Institute for Primary Care: The Active Service Model (January 2008, pg. 10)) Care in your Community: A planning framework This policy framework sets out a ten-year vision for the delivery of integrated and coordinated healthcare around the needs of people, rather than service types, professional boundaries, organisational structure, program funding or reporting requirements. Health services will be increasingly delivered in community-based settings, reducing the need for inpatient care and improving the health outcomes of Victorians. This policy document articulates the argument for a greater shift towards “ambulatory based care”. A number of factors are influencing the focus on providing health care in community-based settings, including: • recognition that care can be delivered safely and effectively without prolonged inpatient

admissions; • development of new technology that enables out-of-hospital care; • reducing pressure on expensive inpatient resources; • improved collaboration between Australian and State governments with increasing Australian

Government support for community-based care; • recognition of the importance of health promotion and illness prevention.


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1.3 Home and Community Care (HACC) The HACC Program supports a range of initiatives to help individuals in the home, including home care, personal care, meals on wheels, home maintenance, nursing, volunteers and telephone support services. Community based supports include Planned Activity Groups (PAGs) and some allied health services. There are also respite services available for Carers. Services are provided to support frail older people and people with disabilities who are having difficulties in managing daily tasks and who wish to continue living at home. The HACC Program targets its services to those who have the greatest need for them and/or the greatest capacity to benefit from them. Agencies providing services will assess your needs and provide you with information about your choices. After assessment, agencies decide what services can be allocated to you. It is important to understand that in many places there are more people wanting services than there are services available. It is agencies’ responsibility to make sure services are allocated fairly and on the basis of need. HACC services are provided by local councils, community health centres and some community organisations including Aboriginal and ethno-specific organisations. (Source: Victorian Department of Health HACC Program Brochure) The HACC Active Service Model is located in the broad policy context set out in A Fairer Victoria (2005) which emphasised early intervention and prevention in all services and for older people, helping them to ‘stay involved in everyday activities to maintain or rebuild their confidence and stay active and healthy’. In Victoria, there are a number of related developments which share the objectives of person centred care, social inclusion, working with people’s strengths and preferences, working collaboratively with the person and the carer, proactively promoting health and capacity building opportunities, recognising and supporting care relationships, providing responsive services and building partnership across organisations and programs. These developments are located across disability; residential care; community health; the acute and sub-acute sectors as well as across HACC services. (Source: Victorian Department of Health HACC Active Service Model Policy Context) The HACC Active Service Model has three key components, which include: 1. An emphasis on capacity building or restorative care to maintain or promote a client’s

capacity to live as independently as possible. The overall aim is to improve functional independence, quality of life and social participation;

2. An emphasis on a holistic ‘person-centred’ approach to care, which promote clients’ wellness and active participation in decisions about care;

3. Provision of more timely, flexible and targeted services that are capable of maximizing the client’s independence.

(Source: Australian Institute for Primary Care: The Active Service Model (January 2008, pg. 5))


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The HACC Diversity planning and practice initiative is an overarching quality improvement strategy and aims to adopt a diversity lens in planning to ensure that services are accessible and responsive for HACC eligible people. There are five special needs groups identified, which include:

• People from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds • People from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds • People with Dementia • People living in rural and remote areas • People experiencing financial disadvantage (including people who are homeless or at

risk of homelessness) While diversity planning has a particular focus on these groups, it is not limited to diversity of age; gender, sexual orientation and gender identity; faith and spirituality; and socio-economic disadvantage. The underlying principles of diversity planning and practice include: • Equitable access to HACC services by those eligible, regardless of their diversity or

disadvantage • A respectful and responsive approach to planning services that acknowledges a

community, group and/or individual’s uniqueness and complexity of need • Consideration of diversity as core business and central to strategic planning and

leadership. All HACC services will be involved in diversity planning which is guided by the HACC Cultural Planning Strategy. This aims to improve accessibility and responsiveness of services to HACC eligible individuals and groups who are marginalised or disadvantaged. A key aim of diversity planning is to identify groups or individuals who may not be accessing service equitably and provide opportunities to stakeholders (including HACC eligible people) to inform the process. For HACC services in Golden Plains Shire, a key challenge will be to match population growth with increased funding levels (both State and Commonwealth funding). Council has a role in advocacy to maintain funding levels and to ensure access and affordability of services for clients. Funding levels are informed by the HACC Planning and Funds Allocation Process (articulated in the Grampians Region Annual Supplement 2011-2012). In the current 2011-2012 funding allocation model, Golden Plains Shire has the lowest per capita allocation in the Grampians region. The HACC Active Service Model supports an approach that provides the most appropriate service to clients, and this will involve providing services in partnership with other agencies. Maintaining and investing in workforce initiatives to ensure appropriate recruitment and retention of staff may continue to be a challenge. Priorities will also be aligned with Regional (and sub-regional) Diversity Plans.


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Snapshot for Golden Plains Shire

2.1 Snapshot of key data 1 Table 1: Selected key statistics for Golden Plains LGA Number in

Golden Plains Shire

Percent in Golden Plains Shire

Percent in Regional Victoria

Total Population 16,453 Australian citizens aged 18+ 10,648 64.7% 68.2% Indigenous Population 92 0.6% 1.2% Overseas born 1,678 10.2% 10.0% Total unemployed 411 5.1% 5.6%

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics – 2006 Census data

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Life expectancy1

85.0 years of age for women residing within Golden Plains (84.3 in Victoria) 80.9 years of age for men residing within Golden Plains (79.9 in Victoria)


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2.2 Population Growth Figure 2 below compares Victoria, the Grampians region and Golden Plains Shire and presents the population percentage change in different age groups. The percentage change indicates very high growth (measured by percentage change) in all age groups over 60 years. This is also presented in Table 3 below (page 15).

Figure 1: Percentage population change by age group Victoria and Golden Plains Shire 2006-2026

No of people aged 65+ in Golden Plains2

In 2006, there were 1509 people aged 65+ In 2026, there will be 4656 people aged 65+

% of people aged 65+ in Golden Plains2

In 2006, 8.8% of people were aged 65+ (Vic 13.3%) In 2026, 19.1% of people will be aged 65+ (Vic 19.1%)


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Table 2: Summary of key population growth 2006 to 2026 (SLA and gender) Golden Plains LGA3 Southeast SLA4 Northwest SLA4

Total Males Females Total Males Females Total Males Females Aged 60-64 years � � Aged 65-69 years � � � � � � � Aged 70-74 years � � � �� Aged 75-79 years � � � �� Aged 80-84 years � �� Aged 85 years + �� 2

Criteria for Table 2 (above) Increase greater than 100% and less than 200% � Increase greater than 200% and less than 300% �� Increase greater than 300% and less than 400% �� Increase greater than 400% ��

Figure 2: Population change by age group Golden Plains Shire 2006-2026

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2.3 What are people doing with their time?

2.4 Social Connectedness

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Paid work2

In 2006, there were 199 people aged 65+ in the labour force (47% are employed full time)

Volunteering – unpaid2

In 2006, there were 276 people aged 65+ who volunteered In 2006, there were 1,629 people aged 45+ who volunteered

Carer – unpaid2

In 2006, there were 125 people aged 65+ who provided unpaid child care In 2006, there were 145 people aged 65+ who engaged in unpaid assistance to a person with a disability

Living Alone2

In 2006, there were 268 people aged 65+ living alone In 2006, there were 129 people aged 75+ living alone In 2006, there were 29 people aged 85+ living alone

Community Indicators1

78.8% could raise $2000 in an emergency (Vic 70.8%) 85.9% feel safe on the street alone after dark (Vic 67.2%) 53.0% report good facilities and services (shops, childcare, schools, libraries) (Vic 74.5%) 62.9% report wide range of community groups (Vic 73.4%)


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2.5 Health Status

2.6 Cultural Diversity Across the Golden Plains Shire • There are 28 persons aged 40+ years across the Golden Plains Shire who identify as

Indigenous Australians. • The percentage of persons aged 65+ who are born overseas is significantly lower than

the Victorian average, for both men and women. • The percentage of persons aged 45+ who are born overseas is significantly lower than

the Victorian average, for both men and women.

2.7 Education Status Across the Golden Plains Shire • The percentage of the population aged 45+ with a postgraduate degree is lower than

the Victorian average (this is not at the 5% criteria level as numbers are low). • The percentage of the population aged 45+ with a Bachelor degree is lower than the

Victorian average, particularly for men. • The percentage of the population aged 45+ with a Certificate level qualification is

higher than the Victorian average, for both men and women.

Chronic Disease1

14.1% report asthma (Vic 10.8%) (9th highest of 79) HIGH 1.47 Asthma admission ratio (Vic 1.0) (3rd highest of 79) HIGH 5.6% report Type 2 Diabetes (Vic 4.5%) (14th highest of 79) HIGH

Services and Facilities1

0.4 General Practitioners per 1,000 pop (Vic 1.03) (ranked 78th of 79) LOW 728.5 Age pension recipients per 1,000 eligible population (Vic 655.7) (ranked 12th of 79) HIGH


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Links with other Golden Plains Plans (Strategic Planning Framework) The Council Plan 2010-2014 has nine Key Result Areas that direct Council strategic objectives and key strategic plans. The key result areas are represented in the second line of the Strategic Planning Framework that is demonstrated below. The third line represents the key strategic plans for each key result area. The fourth and fifth lines represent a number of operational/action plans that provide specific detail to implement initiatives identified in the key strategic plans. Figure 1 below represents the links between the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan and other key strategic plans and operational/action plans across Council. These have been prioritised as primary links (colour coded orange), secondary links (colour coded pink) and tertiary links (colour coded green).


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Principles for the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan Golden Plains Shire Council recognises that there are many individuals, community organisations and other stakeholders across the Shire that have a strong level of involvement and understanding of the needs and supports required for “ageing well” and “ageing within communities”. The role of Council in this plan is two fold. One relates to implementing specific actions within Council, and the other involves leading and developing partnerships with key community groups and service providers (external stakeholders) to address the specific recommendations that relate to the broader community, as identified in the data analysis and various consultations. Recommendations have been developed in response to this identified need, and which supports the ongoing role of these external stakeholders. The following is a list of recommendations and ideas developed through the consultations. The following interpretations have been used for each of the Council roles: Advocacy Role is to influence policy, develop partnerships and advocate for

service development

Facilitator Role is to participate in, and influence service development directly Planning Role is to advocate and plan for universal access through Council

planning processes

Service Provider Role is as a direct service provider, e.g. Maternal and Child Health, Family Day Care, Children’s services

Internal Stakeholders have also been included in this Strategy and Action Plan and refer to specific Departments within Golden Plains Shire Council. Many recommendations require a “whole of Council” approach to supporting service development, which will require close collaboration across a number of Departments. These have been identified as Stakeholders in this Strategy and Action Plan. Four key principles have been identified through the data analysis and consultation processes. Each of these principles have specific objectives and actions identified, as well as outcome measures. The four key principles include: 1. Create communities that support Ageing Well 2. Strengthen the health and wellbeing service system to support Ageing Well 3. Strengthen coordinated Council approaches to support Ageing Well initiatives 4. Support diversity in Ageing Well initiatives


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Ageing Well in Golden Plains Action Plan

Principle 1: Create communities that support Ageing Well

Objective Actions Outcome Measures Internal Stakeholders

Council Role

Priority

1.1 Develop and implement a Communication Plan that provides information to support “ageing within communities”

1.1.1 Develop a Communication Plan that supports “ageing within communities” and which includes a range of strategies to engage with different groups and through different avenues (e.g. disseminate information through a range of stakeholders and consider different needs of older persons i.e. all information is accessible, skills with print, internet)

Communication Plan is evaluated regarding its effectiveness Budget developed and adopted to implement Communication Plan Council staff are resourced and informed to implement the Communication Plan

A&D Team H&W Team Comm Dev’t Comms & Marketing

Advocate Facilitate/ Partner

High

1.1.2 Communication Plan includes information to inform about: • Positive aspects of community

connectedness across the Shire, including the value of volunteering

• Positive aspects of community safety across the Shire

• Senior’s week activities • Current local groups and contact

information (e.g. “Golden Oldies”, Meredith Seniors, Rokewood exercise/ swimming group etc.)

• Adult and Community Further Education (ACFE) programs and other adult education programs (e.g. U3A)

• Availability of library service

Information is provided and disseminated through a range of avenues on a regular and ongoing basis. Avenues for dissemination includes Council website, print, newsletter, events, local community infrastructure (e.g. schools, shops, child care, community facilities, library, community groups/notice boards)

A&D Team Comms & Marketing Small businesses Schools Childcare Library N’hood Houses


High


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Council role Priority

1.1 Develop and implement a Communication Plan that provides information to support “ageing within communities” (continued)

1.1.3 Communication Plan includes information to educate about: • Council services and

programs, including referral and assessment processes

• New or changed services (e.g. availability of allied health services, GP services in Smythesdale)

• Transition to retirement information, including financial planning services

• Availability of State level services to support Ageing Well e.g. Seniors Information Victoria, COTA, Senior Rights Victoria

• Support/services for carers and how to access them

• Referral and assessment processes to access Personal Alert Victoria services

• Referral and assessment processes to access low care and high care residential places (e.g. in the Northwest SLA)

Information provided through regular community forums to address specific issues (e.g. promotion of state level services, financial planning services, low and high care residential services) Recognition and promotion of services provided (e.g. recognise the external partnerships in allied health provision) Ageing Well information is included in New Resident Kit

A&D Team Comms & Marketing Small businesses Schools Childcare Library N’hood Houses


High


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Objective Actions Outcome Measures Internal

Stakeholders Council role Priority

1.2 Extend programs in community facilities that support “ageing within communities”

1.2.1 Strengthen the partnerships with Neighbourhood Houses (Haddon and Meredith) to provide outreach services across the Shire

Outreach programs established and operational

A&D Team H&W Team N’hood Houses


Medium

1.2.2 Strengthen partnerships to deliver programs that support skills including basic computer skills, assistance for forms, digital cameras, phones, photo packages, simple maintenance

Programs established and information regarding availability is disseminated

A&D Team H&W Team ACFE


Medium

1.2.3 Advocate for broadband internet in community facilities

Broadband internet is available in community facilities

Planning Economic Development


Low

1.2.4 Assist neighbourhood houses and community groups to facilitate community based initiatives to support older people needing assistance with pet management. Eg Dog walking.

Programs established. H&W Team

Facilitate Medium


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Council Role

Priority

1.3 Provide a community transport program that provides and delivers integrated transport options

1.3.1 Provide accurate information about transport options e.g. Travellers Aid and Council transport services

Transport information is regularly disseminated

A&D Team H&W Team

Service Provider

High

1.3.2 Advocate for buses, bus stops and other transport to be accessible for all abilities (e.g. space for walkers)

Buses, bus stops and other transport is accessible

A&D Team H&W Team

Service Provider Planner

Medium

1.3.3 Develop a coordinated approach to scheduling appointments/programs that aligns with other transport options (e.g. consider times for appointments in Bannockburn for non-Bannockburn residents, link with University of Ballarat pool)

Measure the number of people who use all aspects of the integrated community transport service

A&D Team H&W Team

Service Provider Facilitate/ Partner

Medium

1.3.4 Develop transport options that consider the issues of “ageing within communities” (e.g. access to Rokewood Bus during school holidays to be in Ballarat for a longer time during the day, change the Bakery Hill pick up point, Smythesdale bus with not enough time in Ballarat or Skipton, car pooling program)

Transport arrangements consider the individual needs of service users

A&D Team H&W Team


Medium


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Council Role

Priority

1.4 Promote recruitment, retention and recognition for volunteer groups

1.4.1 Develop strategies to support retention of volunteers who are aged 45+

Strategies developed (and linked with Golden Plains Volunteer Action Plan)

A&D Team H&W Team Comm Devt Recreation Child & Family Team

Advocate Service Provider Facilitate/ Partner

High

1.4.2 Develop strategies to recruit and retain drivers for meals on wheels and volunteer driving services 1.4.3 Promote access to training and professional development activities for volunteers 1.4.4 Explore new pathways for volunteers e.g. retired people assisting with kindergarten management committees or reading in schools


25


Council Role

Priority

1.5 Encourage economic development initiatives and employment opportunities that support “ageing within communities”

1.5.1 Assess the need for part time employment opportunities with employers, particularly employment for women

Review completed regarding part time employment needs for residents and employers

A&D Team H&W Team Econ Devt

Advocate Planner Service Provider

Low

1.5.2 Assess the need for part time employment opportunities to support “ageing within communities”, particularly for women 1.5.3 Advocate for coordinated approaches to maintenance services that support residents staying safely in their own homes (e.g. electrical and plumbing, repairs, handyman services, window cleaning)

A “preferred/local provider/program list” is developed that identifies free or pensioner discounted options developed (e.g. Grey Army) Communicate “preferred/local provider/program list” Coordination service established across a range of service providers (e.g. Neighbourhood Houses, Community Centres, local shops/schools, Men’s Shed)

Org Dev H&W Team Recreation Econ Devt

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium


26


Council Role

Priority

1.6 Advocate for, and support, a range of community groups to encourage social and community connectedness

1.6.1 Develop strategies to support community organisations to apply for small community grants that support social and community connectedness (e.g. subsidies for bus travel)

Strategies developed that support community organisations to specifically support Ageing Well initiatives

A&D Team Recreation Comm Dev’t


Medium

1.6.2 Review community grants application processes to include ageing well objectives

- Community grants application forms include ageing well objectives - 15% of funded community grants projects to relate to social connectedness and ageing within communities

1.6.3 Support community groups to use a range of community engagement strategies to encourage participants, including individuals who are difficult to engage

A coordinated Council wide strategy is developed that engages with individuals who are difficult to engage and who will not be engaged through the Community Engagement Framework

A&D Team Recreation Comm Dev’t Planning Comms & Marketing


Medium

1.6.4 Establish support systems which provide point of contact if community is concerned (e.g. community coordinators, postal staff who are aware of uncollected mail, bus drivers aware of change, other support system, structures)

Communication protocols established with a range of community groups/members to support individuals ageing within communities (e.g. shops, schools, churches, community groups, other existing support systems)

A&D Team H&W Team Comm Dev’t


Medium


27

Principle 2: Strengthen the health and wellbeing service system to support Ageing Well


Council Role

Priority

2.1 Council to develop a service system/capacity that is responsive to population growth and the increase in people “ageing within communities”

2.1.1 Employ an Aged Services Development Officer to coordinate and resource the Ageing Well in Golden Plains Strategy and Action Plan

Aged Services Development Officer appointed A policy is developed and adopted that represents the long term commitment to HACC service delivery

A&D Team Service Provider

High

2.1.2 Ensure Council’s workforce plan considers the Aged and Disability Team grow in line with population and demand 2.1.3 Council makes a commitment to ongoing service delivery of HACC 2.1.4 Council continues to advocate for increased funding allocation in line with population growth in older age groups and in HACC target groups

Advocate for increased HACC per capita funding for Golden Plains Advocate for increased funding and range of funding sources to support population growth in older age groups

A&D Team H&W Team

Advocate Planner

High

2.1.5 Advocate for sessional space to be available to support a range of visiting health services/professionals to meet increased demand for service provision at the local level e.g. Bannockburn and Smythesdale

Sessional space is available at the local level

A&D Team H&W Team

Advocate

High


28


Council Role

Priority

2.2 Provide a range of HACC services that align with HACC Priorities 2012-2015

2.2.1 Allocate HACC resources aligned to population profiles

Meet HACC reporting requirements, including quality of care standards for person centred services


High

2.2.2 Provide person centred HACC service

2.2.3 Build and support a skilled workforce to meet the needs of the HACC sector

Engage with regional TAFE colleges to support workforce development Advocate to ensure TAFE qualifications are appropriate for HACC sector

Provide training and education to support HACC staff

2.2.4 HACC priorities and actions from this Strategy and Action Plan will inform the HACC Quality Improvement processes

HACC Quality Improvement processes incorporate actions from this Strategy and Action Plan


High


29


Council Role

Priority

2.3 Actively promote participation in health screening initiatives

2.3.1 Work collaboratively with GPs and other health service providers to promote health screening initiatives for specific target groups (e.g. Breastscreen in the Northwest SLA)

Health screening increased to state average Health screening options and promotion regularly reviewed

A&D Team H&W Team BreastScreen GPs Allied health HACC BDNH

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium

2.3.2 Encourage initiatives that increase participation in health screening and which are targeted to both men and women particularly in 70+ age groups

Health screening initiatives consider gender and age

2.4 Advocate to increase the range of services available at the local level e.g. Bannockburn, Smythesdale, Rokewood

2.4.1 Develop and strengthen partnerships with health services to increase/extend the range of available services (e.g. General Practitioners, Practice Nurses, pharmacy services, allied health practitioners, Ambulance services)

Number of new services that are available or extended

A&D Team H&W Team Rural Access worker


Medium

2.4.2 Advocate for Centrelink outreach services

Centrelink outreach service established

2.4.3 Establish and support specific groups for carers, including flexible respite services

Carers groups established and supported as an ongoing group New groups established as required

2.4.4 Advocate for the availability of GP services in the Northwest SLA.

GP services maintained or extended at Smythesdale

2.4.5 Advocate for additional sessional space to be available at the local level e.g. Bannockburn, Smythesdale

Sessional space available to provide services at the local level


30


Council Role

Priority

2.5 Actively promote participation in health promotion/“healthy living” and Active Service Model initiatives

2.5.1 Work collaboratively with GPs and other health service providers to promote health promotion initiatives for specific target groups (e.g. women aged 75-79 in Northwest SLA)

Collaborative planning for health promotion established and regularly reviewed

A&D Team H&W Team Wellbeing Summit partners

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium

2.5.2 Develop health promotion initiatives for both men and women particularly in 60+ age groups

Health promotion initiatives consider gender and age

H&W Team Wellbeing Summit partners Seniors groups N’hood Houses

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium

2.5.3 Engage with persons aged 50+ who are working on farms about their needs for health and wellbeing programs as they age

Review completed regarding health and wellbeing needs of persons working on farms aged 65+

A&D Team H&W Team

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium

2.5.4 Work collaboratively with health service providers to support initiatives that encourages identification of, and responses to, elder abuse

Health service providers include initiatives that encourage identification and response to elder abuse and align with the Elder Abuse Prevention Strategy

A&D Team H&W Team

Facilitate/ Partner

High


31


Council Role

Priority

2.6 Increase coordination and collaboration for clients returning home after hospital stays

2.6.1 Advocate for improved health services discharge planning 2.6.2 Review discharge protocols between Council services and health services to ensure appropriate continuity of care in the home (e.g. getting rails installed)

Partnerships established and protocols reviewed

Link with outcomes from Strengthening Partnerships Project

A&D Team H&W Team

Service Provider Facilitate/ Partner Advocate

High

2.7 Promote and enhance a flexible approach to care planning and service delivery

2.7.1 Develop protocols for Council services (including PAGs) that support flexible service delivery (e.g. may include getting rubbish bins to the kerb, flexible respite)

Collaborative planning for flexible service delivery established and regularly reviewed

A&D Team H&W Team


High

2.7.2 Advocate for flexibility in service delivery from all health service providers 2.7.3 Review existing protocols to meet HACC Active Service Model principles

Protocols reviewed and meet Active Service Model principles Staff updated and educated on changes

A&D Team Allied health incl BDNH, Hesse Health, Skipton & Beaufort Health Service

Service Provider

High


32

Principle 3: Strengthen coordinated Council approaches to support Ageing Well initiatives


Council Role

Priority

3.1 Advocate for safe road environments that support “ageing within communities”

3.1.1 Extend roadside maintenance that supports safe walking paths

Road Strategy and Road Safety Strategy includes consideration of “ageing within communities” initiatives Council Planning Scheme includes consideration of needs of individuals (e.g. length of parking time periods)

Works VicRoads A&D Team H&W Team

Advocate Planner

Low

3.1.2 Extend availability of parking with longer time periods (e.g. Bannockburn) 3.1.3 Review location of pedestrian crossings and advocate on behalf of the community to establish pedestrian crossings and lower speed limits (e.g. Smythesdale) 3.1.4 Advocate for accessible footpaths in built up areas (e.g. Bannockburn, Rokewood along Ferrars Rd, Smythesdale in front of supermarket)

3.2 Advocate for waste management strategies that support “ageing within communities”

3.2.1 Advocate for low cost model for removal of green waste Waste Management

includes consideration of “ageing within communities” initiatives Protocols established between Council and local community groups to support waste management

Comm Devt Recreation

Advocate Planner Facilitate/ Partner

Low

3.2.2 Strengthen partnerships with local community groups (e.g. CFA, Lions Clubs) to support low cost options that support individuals “ageing within communities” 3.2.3 Advocate for hard rubbish removal (including electronic equipment and batteries)


33


Council Role

Priority

3.3 Provide and maintain accessible public facilities to support “ageing within communities”

3.3.1 Provide and maintain clean and accessible public toilets across the Shire.

Environment and Land Use strategies include consideration of “ageing within communities” initiatives

Works A&D Team H&W Team Rural Access


Medium

3.3.2 Advocate for additional bus stops

Low

3.3.3 Research options for a private provider to operate a hydrotherapy facility in Bannockburn (e.g. identification of population base required for financially viable service)

Comm Dev’t Recreation Private providers Planning

Low

3.3.4 Advocate for an accessible facility for PAG groups in Bannockburn

A&D Team

Medium

3.3.5 Advocate for public infrastructure that promotes community safety and “ageing within communities” (e.g. street lighting)

Link with Open Space Strategy Link with community development outcomes from community plans Develop and implement community education programs that support community safety initiatives

A&D Team H&W Team Comm Dev’t Recreation


Medium


34


Council Role

Priority

3.4 Advocate for additional economic development and infrastructure to support ageing within communities

3.4.1 Advocate for improvements in mobile phone coverage

Link with NBN findings Map drop out patterns and lobby providers Develop a business case (e.g. increased internet use which will link with fixed wireless rollout and shared infrastructure)

Exec projects Econ Dev’t


Low

3.4.2 Develop processes to ensure community planning and building of infrastructure includes consultation with Ageing Well stakeholders

Community planning and building of infrastructure is informed by needs of Ageing Well population

A&D Team Comm Dev’t

Planner Facilitate/ Partner

High

3.4.3 Plan for the availability of independent residential living units in small towns, including options in both sewered and non-sewered areas and considering proximity to town centre

Economic Development includes consideration of “ageing within communities” (e.g. town zoning, optional waste management, number of units on block to consider sewerage requirements)

Planning Private providers EHO Exec Projects Econ Dev’t


Medium

3.4.4 Plan for the availability of independent residential living units across small towns that specifically support people living alone safely


Medium


35


Council Role

Priority

3.4 Advocate for additional economic development and infrastructure to support ageing within communities (continued)

3.4.5 Inclusion of older adults in Golden Plains Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS)

Involvement in review of MSS Liaison/consultation with Planning Department Councillor involvement Section within MSS on Ageing Well

Planning Councillors

Planner

High


36

Principle 4: Support diversity in Ageing Well initiatives


Council Role

Priority

4.1 Establish protocols in all aspects of service planning and delivery to ensure diversity is considered in Ageing Well initiatives

4.1.1 Include all aspects of diversity in Ageing Well initiatives, including: gender, ATSI, CALD and persons with disadvantage (including those living in areas of low socio economic status, financially disadvantaged, people living with dementia and people in remote or isolated areas). Include consideration of all diversity groups (e.g. not limited to age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, faith and spirituality).

Ageing Well initiatives include consideration of diversity Ageing Well initiatives to include a diversity lens in the planning process Diversity lens to include consideration of all diversity groups



High

4.1.2 Review current services to assess their accessibility and responsiveness of services for ATSI and CALD clients and other special needs groups

Review of services completed and documented

A&D Team H&W Team


High

4.1.3 Provide cultural and diversity awareness training for all staff and volunteers who are working with Ageing Well initiatives

Staff and volunteers participate in cultural and diversity awareness training

A&D Team H&W Team

Service Provider

Medium

4.1.4 Establish and implement specific initiatives for men and women as needed

Ageing Well initiatives to include a diversity lens and gender lens in the planning and implementation process

Council support for public liability insurance

A&D Team H&W Team

Advocate

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium

4.1.5 Establish and implement specific initiatives for ATSI and CALD residents and other special needs and diversity groups

A&D Team H&W Team

Advocate

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium


37


Council Role

Priority

4.1 Establish protocols in all aspects of service planning and delivery to ensure diversity is considered in Ageing Well initiatives (continued)

4.1.6 Advocate for a range of community based activities and events that support diversity, including gender, culture and abilities (e.g. event management through Disability Action Plan and Communication Plan)

Ageing Well initiatives to link with regional and sub-regional Diversity Plans


Advocate

Facilitate/ Partner

Medium


38

Appendix 1

Summary of Key Themes and Recommendations Appendix 1 provides a summary of key themes and links with the specific recommendations which are fully detailed in a companion Background Paper. Several themes emerged during the review of the data and the policy context as well as through the community consultation process. The Background Paper provides the detail for this Strategy and Action Plan, and includes a number of specific recommendations which relate to data, policy and community consultation outcomes. Theme 1: Implement HACC Priorities Recommendations:

Align service delivery with HACC Priorities 2012-2015 Priority 1 – Person centred. To implement a person-centred, capacity building and restorative care approach to HACC service delivery, using a diversity lens (Recommendation 1). Align service prioritisation and targeting of resources with HACC Priorities 2012-2015 Priority 2 – Resources aligned to population profiles. To ensure that the overall allocation of funding and program resources is kept aligned with the changing demographics of the target population, and to assist communities build sustainable service systems (Recommendation 2). Align workforce recruitment and retention with HACC Priorities 2012-2015 Priority 3 – Workforce. To build and support a skilled workforce to meet the emerging service delivery needs of the HACC sector (Recommendation 3). Council to continue with its commitment to maintaining existing HACC services and its commitment to supporting Ageing Well initiatives (Recommendation 30).

Theme 2: Focus on groups with the greatest disadvantage and highest need in Ageing Well initiatives Recommendations:

Consider areas with the greatest disadvantage (measured by low SEIFA scores) in Ageing Well initiatives (Recommendation 4). Include consideration of the different needs of men and women in implementing Ageing Well initiatives for all age groups (Recommendation 5). Consider high population growth areas (as defined by age group and SLA parameters) in Ageing Well initiatives (Recommendation 6).


39

Develop “healthy living” initiatives and programs to support ageing within communities for all age groups, but specifically targeting age groups over 70 years (Recommendation 7). Explore the need for Ageing Well initiatives and programs to support persons aged 65+ who continue to be employed in farming activities (Recommendation 8).

Theme 3: Promote access to a range of community based activities that support ageing within communities Recommendations:

Explore the need for part time employment opportunities for older persons, including consideration of gender differences (Recommendation 9). Actively promote retention of volunteers who are aged 45+ (Recommendation 10). Actively promote the availability of Adult and Community Further Education (ACFE) programs and other adult education programs (including U3A) to support Ageing Well initiatives (Recommendation 21). Consider education levels (and gender) on economic development and employment initiatives to support “ageing within communities”, including support for access to training for volunteers (Recommendation 22). Advocate for a range of community based activities that support the different needs of families (including singles and couples), gender, culture and abilities (Recommendation 23). Council to support recruitment and retention activities for volunteer groups, including access to training and professional development activities (Recommendation 33).

Theme 4: Promote access to health and community services that support ageing within communities Recommendations:

Actively promote the availability of housing development options within townships to provide safe housing that supports “ageing within communities” (Recommendation 11). Advocate for the availability of General Practitioner services in the Northwest SLA (Recommendation 14). Actively promote participation in cancer screening initiatives (e.g. Breastscreen) in the Northwest SLA (Recommendation 15). Advocate for access to information about low care and high care residential places which are accessible for residents in the Northwest SLA (Recommendation 16).


40

Advocate for the availability of Centrelink outreach services to the Northwest SLA (Recommendation 17). Advocate for access to General Practitioners, Practice Nurses, pharmacy and allied health practitioners at a local area level e.g. Bannockburn, Smythesdale, Rokewood (Recommendation 18). Council to support ageing within communities, taking into account gender differences and specific groups for carers (Recommendation 26). Council to work with Neighbourhood Houses (Haddon and Meredith) to provide outreach services across the Shire (Recommendation 27). Council to support local community transport arrangements (Recommendation 28). Advocate for access to ambulance services, library services, Centrelink outreach services, and improvements in mobile phone coverage (Recommendation 29). Council to support the availability of flexible Council services that can support ageing within communities (Recommendation 31). Advocate with Council Units and VicRoads to promote a safe environment to support ageing within communities, including infrastructure e.g. roadside maintenance, safe walking paths/footpaths, accessible public toilet facilities and bus stops, lighting, availability of parking, pedestrian crossings and speed limit restrictions (Recommendation 32).

Theme 5: Promote and embrace diversity Recommendations:

Develop specific strategies for the ATSI and CALD communities in the Ageing Well Strategy and Action Plan (Recommendation 19). Actively promote cultural awareness training for all staff and volunteers who are working with Ageing Well initiatives (Recommendation 20).

Theme 6: Use a range of communication strategies to support Ageing Well within communities Recommendations:

Actively promote the positive aspects and perceptions of community connectedness and community safety across the Shire (Recommendation 12).


41

Actively promote and recognise the role of small business (shops, libraries, schools and childcare) as centres for social connectedness and information dissemination (Recommendation 13). Council to disseminate information through a range of communication strategies, including shops, local newsletters, Golden Plains Gazette, community noticeboards etc. Information to be provided in an accessible format (Recommendation 24). Provide training to develop a well informed Council workforce (including HACC workers, customer service staff and outdoor maintenance workers) who can support “ageing within communities” initiatives and who can refer to Council services as required (Recommendation 25).

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