Helping seniors stay in their homes

A strong desire by older Western Australians to remain in their own homes and in their community for as long as possible has resulted in the State Government launching a kit about home maintenance.

Seniors and Volunteering Minister Tony Simpson said 23 local governments in WA had sought the first-hand experiences and input of older people to determine barriers to remaining in their own homes.

The Age Friendly Communities reports, conducted by the local governments using State Government funds, found that access to and the affordability of maintenance services was highly important to seniors wanting a level of independence and quality of life.

Other factors include affordable accommodation, in an accessible location and close to services, and the design and modifications to individual homes.

The Age Friendly Home Maintenance Kit provides hints on general home maintenance, safety and security, and how to deal with tradespeople.

Mr Simpson said the reports found that almost one quarter of seniors needed help with property maintenance and it was their second biggest concern behind health care.

"Seniors who are able to take on small tasks such as fixing a leaking tap or unblocking a drain are more likely to stay in their own homes for longer," he said.

"This kit, with its simple checklists, will go some way to enabling older Western Australians to maintain control over their housing options; stay connected to their community of choice and reduce the financial and stress of moving out of their home prematurely."

The Minister said the kit was one step in a collaborative approach to better manage the long term planning needed to meet the housing needs of older people in order to help them to remain in their local community.

To find out more about the kit:

• Download a copy from http://www.dlgc.wa.gov.au  or http://goo.gl/spvjGg

• Phone the Seniors Housing Centre on 1300 367 057

• Phone the Seniors Card Centre on (08) 6551 8800 or 1800 671 233.

Minister's office - 6552 6600