Age Matters in Wollongong, New South Wales | Charitable organisation

Age Matters

Locality: Wollongong, New South Wales

Phone: +61 134478

Address: 3/77 Market Street 2500 Wollongong, NSW, Australia

Website: http://www.agematters.org.au

Likes: 905

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• Non-profit organisation
• Charitable organisation

25.01.2022 I’d see these hoarding shows on TV and think, ‘Oh god, how can they not see that?’ " Hoarding disorder affects a lot of us. Yet sometimes it's hard to know the difference between too much 'stuff' and an out of control problem that is interfering with daily life.... When is too much stuff a problem? 1) The definition of hoarding is an excessive emotional attachment to possessions, leading to an intense difficulty discarding them. For a clinical diagnosis, the behaviour will be impacting their safety and ability to carry out normal tasks. 2) Understand the hoarding is not laziness or disorganisation. It's a recognised mental health condition which frequently develops after traumatic events. 3) A 'rescue' approach or massive cleanout is not the best way to help. Consider small tasks that can make a safer living environment and consider professional help that will help you look at the whole situation. http://ow.ly/5U4f50DxlPD #hoardingtohomelessness #alifetimeoftreasure #traumainformed

25.01.2022 We wish things we different. We agree with many of the dire points raised in this article. Individual circumstances are complex, but our experience is that for older renters the end of the welfare supplement presents looming poverty. The pressure is on charities such as us to help bridge the gap between the social support system and real life. We rely on your help so we can continue making a difference to vulnerable older people. Please consider becoming a regular giver at www.agematters.org.au

24.01.2022 'It’s reassuring to know that organisations like Age Matters exist. Older people are often overlooked and even agencies that work with older adults sometimes disempower them.’ http://ow.ly/N5DV50B4d9o

24.01.2022 Caring about others is not bounded by age. This is just one of the interesting take-aways from this great new report on Reframing Ageing in Australia. When we look at people we should view them for who they are and not their age; older adults are great contributors to society. At @AgeMAttersAus Our youngest volunteer is aged just 12 and our oldest is 95. Their age is irrelevant, but their sense of purpose is what matters. Check out the report here: http://ow.ly/RCEs50ACt2c... Learn more about volunteering with Age Matters here: http://ow.ly/ToXO50ACt3R

23.01.2022 Read this awesome profile of an amazing volunteer who is proving that giving back provides purpose, warmth and strengthens communities.

23.01.2022 Many people don't know that Ryan Park for Keira is the Shadow Minister for Housing & Homelessness, as well as a great local advocate for the importance of affordable housing. We are lucky that Ryan is listening to our calls for more age-specific housing. Most affordable housing are limited in their ability to safely house older people. They may have too many stairs, be in an unsafe environment, or have barriers that increase social isolation. If you want to learn more about the unique needs of older people, visit www.agematters.org.au

23.01.2022 We love inspirational. Whether it's through the Illawarra Kindness Pandemic, our amazing employees and volunteers, or the people that we're lucky enough to work with - inspirational is pretty much our middle name. That's why this year we're sponsoring the 2020 Inspiring Employee category at the Illawarra Business Awards. Know someone that might be worthy??? Make sure that they're entered in this year's awards.

23.01.2022 People who are homeless and living with cognitive impairment often fall through the cracks. We need all the different parts of the system to work more closely with one another to provide the best support. We don’t know enough about the needs of the many homeless people living with cognitive impairment, including dementia. This World Alzheimer’s Day 2020 lets pay attention to forms of dementia that may co-exist in older people who are homeless. Dementia can be difficult to dis...tinguish from, other issues such as mental health problems, traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse issues. Our Homelessness Support program is essential to provide specialist support to older people who are more likely to have dementia in addition to, as well as a result of, being homeless. https://tinyurl.com/AgeMattersHomeless Video credit: People who are homeless are at a higher risk of developing dementia. Also many prisoners who are living with dementia really need medical attention. We produced this documentary with Dementia Training Australia/UOW and UNSW- and the amazing Wintringham in Melbourne. Full film available. Contact [email protected]

22.01.2022 Age Matters Homelessness and Service Linkage workers discuss what it's like to work with isolated and vulnerable older people, considering their safety and wellbeing.

22.01.2022 On an awesome webinar right now launching this fantastic initiative to inspire Aussies to be more generous. When you see this coin it's your 'nudge' to give. This cool coin creates an ongoing generosity loop. If every Australian donated just $1 a month we'd donate over $3M more every year. I can't wait to get my hands on one. When you find one don't hang onto it - donate to a charity like Age Matters!... Now more than ever we need to help each other and help those in-need. #DonationDollar

21.01.2022 Celebration time 12 months ago Booraja Home Care headed to Parliament House on a wing and a prayer, in the hope we could get support to transition from a grant-funded pilot to an ongoing service. We had results, we were demonstrating impact, but our innovative culture-centric service model didn't fit the normal service type for Home Care. Proudly we're still here, servicing over 50 Elders and employing 15 Aboriginal Care Staff. ... Not even COVID can slow us down! We've continued to grow the numbers for Elders supported and staff employed throughout the whole year. Congratulations Bunja, Narelle and team!!!

19.01.2022 The state of Australian employment in response to COVID-19. To learn what we’re doing to get older workers into jobs, visit: www.agematters.org.au Source: Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS, 2020)

19.01.2022 Did you know we are an official Community Visitors Scheme auspice? We help match isolated older people with caring volunteers to check in on a regular basis. If you're interested in connecting and making a positive difference to someone in NSW's Illawarra region, please get in touch. https://www.irt.org.au/abou/age-matters/volunteer-with-us/

19.01.2022 Ad agency Thinkerbell has launched an eight-week paid internship for people aged 55+. Mature age contributors are massively underrepresented in the advertising industry, and Thinkerbell is seeking applicants with a lifetime of experience and wisdom. What other industries do you think could benefit from this type of targeted internship? Where would you like to bring your expertise and life qualifications?... Age Matters is always looking at ways to boost mature workforce participation. Get in touch at http://ow.ly/J70z50Bxkb9 THRIVE@55 applications: http://ow.ly/kbaL50Bxkb8

17.01.2022 This year may be devastating for most people, in many different ways, but it is not over yet. We have commitment and experience and we are determined to help older Australians gain a fair chance at employment. EveryAGE Counts Australian Human Rights Commission

16.01.2022 An inspiring human and a great loss as a leader and passionate advocate for people experiencing discrimination.

16.01.2022 Grandmillennial - a new style embraced by young people that invokes a nostalgia for a slower lifestyle and an appreciation for the craft process. Do you have examples of 'granny chic' in your home? Are there decorative items that give you sentimental feelings towards your older relatives? When we value things from a prior era, does this help or hinder our attitudes towards older people?... http://ow.ly/dw5I50DtQvS

16.01.2022 The amazing Rotary Club of Illawarra Sunrise https://www.facebook.com/RotaryClubOfIllawarraSunrise/ believe that age matters. They’ve donated $4,420 to us for our work in empowering vulnerable older people to live free from disadvantage. If you’d like to know more about our work, like our facebook page or visit www.agematters.org.au

15.01.2022 Are you 65 years of age or over, and performing (or interested in) volunteer work or paid work? This 10 minute survey wants to learn the career support needs of those in retirement who re-engage in work (paid or volunteer) as well as those who never stopped working. We know that there are a range of myths - but your answers will help find the truth.... https://surveys.usq.edu.au/index.php/828454?lang=en

14.01.2022 We’ve been delivering outcomes for older people facing homelessness for over 20 years in the Illawarra region of NSW. As an Assistance with Care and Housing Program provider we helped hundreds of people who at risk of homelessness or who were sleeping rough, in their cars or couch surfing. We’ve seen the affordability of private rentals skyrocket, while incomes have remained stagnant. The increased strain on services and the complexity of individual circumstances needs clien...ts are needing more support than ever before. With your help we can continue to prioritise the needs of older adults who are often facing homelessness for the first time in their lives. Your support helps us take a housing first approach to empowering older people towards better lives. Become a regular giver today. https://www.irt.org.au/about-i/age-matters/housing-support/ #HW2020

13.01.2022 Our volunteers are bringing a friendly face to essential visits at Aged Care Centres. We are so grateful to have such a caring and responsive team to support the wellbeing of residents, families and the community.

13.01.2022 Always was, always will be... See this important message from our Brothers and Sisters, Elders past and present from the stunning Shoalhaven. Booraja Home Care is built on the importance of a connection to country. ... National NAIDOC Shoalhaven City Council

13.01.2022 A very insightful article about the importance of recognising the role that older adults play in our community. We actively promote social and civic participation opportunities for older people and value their important contribution.

12.01.2022 Did you know... A recent survey by EveryAGE Counts showed that 73% of people had increased their awareness of ageism due to the impact of COVID-19. With increased pressure on services that work with and represent older people, some of the things we've heard people say have been alarming. We need to keep the conversation going and change the way Australians think about Ageism. Have you asked yourself "Am I Ageist"?... If you're not sure, maybe it's time to Take The Quiz. https://www.everyagecounts.org.au/take_the_quiz

12.01.2022 Not everyone has a safe place to sleep tonight. #HW2020

12.01.2022 I needed this today. A mid-morning coffee is even better in a bright orange keep-cup. Get your paws on this by becoming a regular giver. Not only will you get a sunny blast of happiness (not just the coffee), but you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you're helping keep older people from becoming homeless and isolated.... Sign up at https://www.irt.org.au/about-irt/age-matters/#donate-now We're sending all new regular donors an Age Matters keep cup during February. #weakalmondflatwhite #AgeMatters #noolderpersonshouldbehomeless

12.01.2022 Helen Garner shares her perspective on ageing... https://www.theguardian.com//is-a-woman-my-age-allowed-to-

11.01.2022 We live in a developed nation, but we are leaving these people behind. People who have helped make this country what it is today. http://ow.ly/mBYS50AX2JI #homelessness #socialhousing #socialimpact #olderpeople

11.01.2022 Building social housing creates jobs and homes. Every $1 invested in building social housing creates $3 in economic benefit. For Homelessness Week in Australia we remind everyone that more Australians are homeless than ever before and this economic crisis is putting significant pressure on housing security. Historically, in times of economic crisis, housing construction has played a key role in economic recovery. We welcome the creation of social housing. We also want to hig...hlight the importance of building appropriate accommodation that meets the needs of older people. Please consider getting behind the Everybody's Home campaign and support investment in safe, appropriate and suitable social housing. Everybody Needs a Home #BuildSocialHousing #HW2020

10.01.2022 We were facilitating the conversation on engaging older workers back in 2016 and the issue is more relevant than ever. #throwbacktuesday If you missed it, check out our commentary about what the pandemic means for mature-age job seekers.... https://tinyurl.com/olderworkersmatter

10.01.2022 It's so easy to make a difference. Set 'Illawarra Retirement Trust' as your PayPal charity and help Age Matters support vulnerable older people.

08.01.2022 What a little legend, polishing up the new Age Matters car. He’s proud of his mum and the great work she does every day helping older people. Before we became Age Matters, we were IRT Foundation. Our name made it more difficult to explain to people what we do, and who we help. People made a lot of assumptions about what older people have and why they might need assistance. They’re asking questions now seeing the car and thinking, 'yah, Age Matters too’. The community is recognising that not everyone has access to a safe home or can easily link up to services that help them live better lives. If you’d like to find out more about what we do, please visit our website https://www.irt.org.au/about-i/age-matters/service-linkage/

08.01.2022 Today is a really important day to ask RUOK. Check out our eight ways to make sure someone is ok. http://ow.ly/43AB50BmFCc... If you're older and isolated it's critical to keep the conversation going every day. #RUOK #theresmoretosay #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #WSPD2020

07.01.2022 Older adults who get together with friends, volunteer, or attend classes especially have healthier brains Never before has the impact of social isolation experienced by older people been more of a critical concern. https://tinyurl.com/isolatedseniors

06.01.2022 Please make your voice heard and raise the issue of #olderwomenshomelessness. We are so pleased to be part this online forum discussing Older Women's Homelessness. The Hon. Dr Kay Patterson AO, Age Discrimination Commissioner is delivering her passionate insight on this issue, and we're hearing from hosts Jo Haylen (Shadow Minister for Seniors), Ryan Park for Keira (Housing and Homelessness) and Trish Doyle MP (Women and the Prevention of Domestic Violence). Thank you to Ryan Park for Keira and Dr Patterson for acknowledging Age Matters and Toby Dawson for the great work we're doing here in the Illawarra!

06.01.2022 We are extremely lucky to have advocates like Paul Scully MP championing the cause for more affordable housing. Unfortunately older people are being ignored or left out of the conversation. A one-size-fits-all approach to solving homelessness will not address their specific needs. It is our role to highlight the need for age-appropriate housing. Older people are the fastest growing group of homeless in the country. Their outcomes are often far worse than others. To find out more visit www.agematters.org.au Homelessness Australia Homelessness Nsw Everybody's Home #HW2020

06.01.2022 In social impact, we can’t afford to be fearful. We need to excitedly embrace that we all have the opportunity to change the world of tomorrow to be a better place.

06.01.2022 Two new reports highlighting the plight of older women and insecure housing will be launched in a special online event next week. The "At Risk: Older Women facing homelessness in Australia" event is bringing together women from around the country in the campaign to end older womens homelessness. You can RSVP for this special online event at: http://ow.ly/FJ8p50ACtaJ

05.01.2022 Congratulations Jenny! We had the great pleasure of speaking with Jenny recently. She is both inspiring and modest - what a great asset to the community and a deserved winner. www.agematters.org.au

05.01.2022 It’s time to remember. At 11am today, this anniversary of the Armistice which ended World War I in 1918, we observe one minute’s silence in memory of those who died and suffered in all wars. This year has been particularly challenging for those who served. We were so grateful to be involved in the ANZAC DAY Digger Drop Off earlier this year, dropping off hundreds of ‘respect packages’ to many people who were home by themselves on Anzac Day.... Take the time to remember the ultimate sacrifice that’s given us the freedom we enjoy today.

05.01.2022 If you live in NSW and you are over the age of 60 the NSW Government has created a COVID-19 online information portal you might find useful. The page includes advice on staying connected, keeping active and getting help at home. This is also great please to find accurate and relevant information if you care for or live with an older person. Follow the link below and stay safe. http://ow.ly/WsFo50ACrS2

04.01.2022 Did your grandparents, or someone special, leave you any cool items of clothing? Share a photo of your favourite items and tag Age Matters for your chance to win a Depop gift voucher. #wardrobechallenge #oldisnew #handmedownchallenge #yograndadadsclothes #raidgrandmascloset #oldrocks

04.01.2022 Everybody Needs a Home #HW2020 It’s National Homelessness Week and an opportunity to reflect on how many people don’t have a safe home to sleep tonight. If you’re curious how your region fares and how many social homes are urgently needed today Everybody's Home launched electorate heat maps where you can find out. Share with your friends to highlight homelessness awareness so everybody can join in the call to build more appropriate social housing. ... http://ow.ly/fhNQ50AOKQW

03.01.2022 How can social innovation help to provide solutions for one of society’s biggest issues? Read this fantastic write-up featuring our very own locally led response to homelessness, including Age Matters perspective on housing vulnerable older people. https://magazine.uow.edu.au/alumni/outlook/UOW266594.html

02.01.2022 Mmmm...the only thing better than a delicious hot beverage is one inside an Age Matters keep cup. Sign up as a regular giver in February and we'll send you one of these bright little beauties. Every sip will fill you with warmth, knowing you're changing the lives of vulnerable older people. Sign up today at http://ow.ly/JyW250DqLGn You can even tag Age Matters and let everyone know how generous you're feeling.... #keepcupsforever #orangeisthebestcoulour #noolderpersonshouldbehomeess #AgeMattersAU See more

01.01.2022 We embed a Housing First approach across our work with older people who are experiencing homelessness, embracing the principles recently released by Homelessness Australia. To find out more about our work, please visit our website: http://ow.ly/muuf50B4dCw or read more about the principles here: http://ow.ly/lFWO50B4dCv

01.01.2022 We’re struggling. We’d love to tell you we’ve found a home for all our vulnerable clients, but the reality is that dozens of people are waiting for a safe place to call their own. There simply is not enough affordable and appropriate housing to meet the needs of our ageing clients. Scanning the private rental market turns up little in the budget of someone on a pension. Social housing waitlists are long and often properties have stairs or are located too far from public tran...sport. By the time a client is referred to us they have usually exhausted their options and are feeling desperate. Mostly, they lack someone to help them navigate the scarcity of housing options for an older person who does not own their own home. Our society assumes and judges that their situation is due to a lifetime of bad choices. But we are working hard to challenge those myths. We are people working with people who’ve had a lifetime of experiences. No one deserves to feel desperate and alone with no place to call home. You can help. It’s easy to become a regular giver for just a few dollars a day you can help vulnerable older people overcome the struggle. https://youtu.be/CD8SZ0C4agA