Why We Need Charlie's Gift

Even before COVID19, there was a profound correlation between social isolation and the negative impact on the health and wellbeing of our older community.

Human beings at any age are social creatures and it is the connection to others, which enables us to survive and thrive. Social connection, together with participation in meaningful activities and leisure pursuits, gives us purpose, self-value and strengthens our resilience to accept and adapt to change.

A research paper published by the National Institute on Aging (April 23, 2019), reported that many of the following chronic health conditions are intensified or are a direct result of social isolation and chronic loneliness, including depression, anxiety, increased falls, cognitive decline, heart disease, obesity, weakened immune systems, Alzheimer’s, general dissatisfaction with life, and suicide.

That losing a sense of connection and community changes a person’s perception of the world.

This equates to approximately 2.7 people of working age for every person over 65.  This will mean less income tax paid to cover the increased costs needed for public health and aged care and less people in the workforce to provide the services needed.

This means the government considers aging and aged care outcomes to be the responsibility of the aged community or those that care for them.

Sadly, not all our aged are eligible for government subsidies for home care services. Those who are approved for Home Care Services may be placed on lengthy waiting lists before services are received.