By 2050, around one quarter of all Australians will be aged 65 years and over – we’re living longer and, inch by inch, we’re carving out a fairer, more secure, more connected society.
In cafes and caravan parks, yoga classes and men’s sheds, older Australians are out there living, and loving, later life.
According to National Seniors, the leading member-based organisation for older Australians, the pendulum on age is finally swinging in the right direction.
“The saying, ‘there is strength in numbers’ is so true. As far as seniors go, the cause is developing significant muscle,” says National Seniors General Manager of Marketing and Membership, Sandra Philpott.
“We have a vibrant older population who are continuing to give, economically and socially, and who are moving ever closer to the life experience they deserve. We’re chipping away at issues that impact on large numbers of the older population, but very aware that age is sometimes the only similarity for a lot of people. Being a ‘senior’ isn’t a personality trait!”
Research and advocacy
National Seniors, as a ‘for purpose’ organisation, uses its membership fees to fund research into the issues that impact on later life, and advocates for change at the highest levels of government.
“Every single person we speak with has a different life experience and hopes and fears that are personal to them,” Sandra says.
“Our challenge, as an organisation, is to meet the needs of very different people at very different life stages. Because age, quite literally, is just a number.”
With members across Australia, National Seniors works with a host of strategic partners and engages with many community stakeholders to deliver services and opportunities that make a difference to daily life and the future that awaits all Australians.
Keeping your finger ‘on the button’
Gary and his wife joined on the advice of their financial advisor. “He said it was important for us to stay in touch with changes that might be happening – keeping our finger on the button,” Gary said. “We’re on the full pension and we don’t have a lot of Super – we don’t have much money by a long shot, so you need to know if there are any changes coming your way. At the moment we’re doing ok, but I can see that we might struggle down the track. There’s the possibility that we’d run out of money, in which case we’d have to sell our family home.”
That need for relevant information and the sense that someone is going in to ‘bat’ for you, is a common theme, says Sandra Philpott.
“We frequently hear people saying that they feel like an ‘easy target’ for government. That’s something that saddens me – to think that people feel so disregarded and powerless – but it also encourages us to keep motivating older Australians to take charge of their destiny and have their say.
“Information is power – that’s why we prioritise member communication on the issues that matter. From pension and benefit changes to aged care guidance and digital and financial literacy support – these are the things that keep people awake at night and that have a significant impact on their daily life.”
Connection and community
A common thread for many, Sandra says, is the need for human connection and support as you deal with life’s challenges.
“As we all know, life is a series of swings and roundabouts. You discover the freedom of retirement, only to experience the loss of your networks. Children grow up, partners and friends pass away. These are challenges, but we get through them by connecting with other people who understand, or who can just bring a bit of fun and light into our lives. That’s a message that comes through very strongly as I visit branches all across the country – that having a welcoming, ready-made community, brought to life by wonderfully committed volunteers and members who really value the connection, is critical.
“That’s where our branch network comes into its own.”
With 113 branches Australia-wide, the National Seniors network is a great place to find friendship, stay connected, learn and laugh.
Jill from Forest Lakes joined National Seniors when she turned 50.
“Branches are mainly a social outlet, but you do get some really good speakers and you learn a lot. Like solicitors and people from aged care – they’re things that may not be relevant to you, personally, right now but could impact on friends or relatives. It’s really valuable.”
Making fun affordable
Last, but not least, Sandra says, are the member benefits – helping everyone’s budget go that little bit further.
“We’re well known for our discounts – theatre tickets, books, cafes, hotels. That’s a big drawcard for a lot of people, because it makes a fully-rounded personal and social experience more financially achievable.
“Our membership is just $45 per year. While it doesn’t take many discounted coffees and outings to break-even on your investment, that $45 is the difference between older Australians taking what’s given to them, or taking action on the issues that matter.”
Find out how you can support National Seniors to make later life the best that it can be, by visiting www.nationalseniors.com.au or call 1300 765 050.
Find out more > nationalseniors.com.au
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