Many community services are available to seniors in Victoria. There are health and wellbeing services that can help with testing for disease, eye care, and rehabilitation therapy. There are a variety of community programs that can help with active living and others that help with fall prevention. There's even assistance for transportation, and provision for emergency relief in times of financial hardship.
There's so much on offer that it can be overwhelming. To help you navigate community services for older Victorians, we've put together the following guide.
At the Medical & Aged Care Group, we have decades of experience in helping older Victorians access the right community services. Our company is based on family values, and we pride ourselves in providing high-quality residential aged care.
General health and wellbeing services for seniors in your area
The Victorian State Government has a thorough health directory, which contains contact details for almost a hundred different health clinics right across the state. It's easy to search by region, with information on both metropolitan and rural services.
Some of these healthcare providers are independently managed, while others are funded by the Commonwealth. They offer a range of different services, from chronic disease management and post-acute care to dental health and community care. Check the website of your local health clinic to find more information about the specific services they offer.
Mental health help for ageing Australians
Dedicated services are available to help Victorians who are over 65 years old, and who have a mental illness. Local help can be provided to assess, treat, and manage mental illnesses for seniors. Additionally, short term inpatient treatments are available, as are respite stays in aged care homes.
To find out more information about mental health care for older Australians, visit the website for Aged Person's Mental Health Services.
Older people and the Victorian Eyecare Service (VES)
The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) and local optometrists offer subsidised eye care for many older Victorians. You could be eligible for the services if you are a Victorian permanent resident, and have a Pensioner Concession Card.
Read more about the provisions and requirements for the VES by visiting the website for the ACO. It's easy to browse rural and metropolitan locations online, or you can call 9349 7400.
Monitoring alarms with Personal Alert Victoria (PAV)
Senior Victorians who are frail, have issues with their health, or live alone might qualify for a Personal Alert Victoria (PAV) alarm. Eligibility is confirmed by having an aged care service assess the candidate.
The PAV is a device which allows a person to call for help, no matter where they are in their home. The service also provides a call once a day to check well being. To find out more about PAV, check out their PDF. Information can be provided in another format by calling 9096 7389.
Fall prevention for ageing Victorians
The impact of having a fall gets more serious as people age. To minimise the risk of falling and reduce the negative impacts that may happen when a fall occurs. The Victorian Government has compiled relevant information on falls — including dietary advice and tools to prevent falls.
Care for Victorians with dementia
The government sponsors programs designed to help people with dementia, as well as their families and carers. Dementia support services on offer include referral, training, education, and counselling.
There are also specialist clinics like the Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS). They perform clinical diagnoses, provide information on possible treatments, and refer clients and their families to tailored service providers. To find a service near you, call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. Operating hours are Monday-Friday, between 9 am and 5 pm.
Help with transport
People living with a disability that is severe or permanent might qualify for the Multi Purpose Taxi Program. This program subsidises taxi services to help Victorians get where they need to go. The subsidy is 50% of the fare, up to a maximum of $60.
