Christmas message – remember to check in on your elderly relatives and neighbours
The Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, has encouraged Australians to remember elderly relatives and neighbours during the Christmas and New Year period by simply popping around and visiting. There are 1.9 million Australians aged 70 years and older, comprising 9.3 per cent of the total population.
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23 December 2007
JE07/07
The Australian Government Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, today encouraged Australians to remember elderly relatives and neighbours during the Christmas and New Year period by simply popping around and visiting.
There are 1.9 million Australians aged 70 years and older, comprising 9.3 per cent of the total population.
Australians now have one of the highest life expectancies in the world.
“One of the most valuable gifts we as individuals and communities can give this Christmas is our time. Please take a moment to catch up with your elderly relatives or neighbours,” Mrs Elliot said.
“Such a gesture can mean so much to our older Australians.
“It is as simple as popping in and visiting to make sure that everyone is safe and well.
“Christmas is that special time when families, friends, neighbours and communities get together to celebrate.
“But for many people, particularly elderly and frail Australians, Christmas can be a lonely time with loved ones living so far away,” she said.
Mrs Elliot also took the opportunity to pay tribute to all those individuals and groups who do so much to bring Christmas cheer and care to those in need.
“In particular, I want to thank those people such as Volunteer Community Visitors who help senior residents of aged care homes share in the joy of Christmas by providing joy and companionship to those who may have limited social or family contact,” she said.
“I wish all Australians, particularly senior Australians, a safe and happy Christmas.”
For more information, contact Mrs Elliot's office on (02) 6277 7280
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