AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY PROJECT

SHIRE OF BUSSELTON

THIS PROJECT WAS COMMISSIONED BY THE S HIRE OF BUSSELTON TO INFORM

COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC PLAN ACTION TO ‘PREPARE A STRATEGY TO ASSIST THE

AGED ’

THE PROJECT WAS SUPPORTED BY THE DEPARTMENT FOR COMMUNITIES . THE

DEPARTMENT FOR COMMUNITIES BUILDS STRONG , VIBRANT COMMUNITIES BY

SUPPORTING AND ADVOCATING ON BEHALF OF CHILDREN , PARENTS AND THEIR

FAMILIES , YOUNG PEOPLE , WOMEN, SENIORS , CARERS , VOLUNTEERS AND NON -GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS .

THE PROJECT RECEIVED SUPPORT FROM THE SOUTH WEST DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION AS PART

OF ITS STRATEGIC PRIORITY OF “ACTIVE AGEING”.

J M C O M M U N I T Y D E V E L O P M E N T P R O J E C T S

A U T H O R : J A C K I E M A S S E Y

D A T E : 4 J U L Y 2 0 1 1

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THE SHIRE OF BUSSELTON AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY PROJECT

Contents

1. FOREWORD FROM SHIRE PRESIDENT3

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................ 3

3. PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS ......... 4

4. BACKGROUND INFORMATION............ 7

5. COMMUNITY PROFILE ............................. 8

6. METHODOLOGY ...................................... 11

7. LIMITATIONS ............................................. 13

8. CHARACTERISTICS OF PARTICIPANTS13

9. MAIN FINDINGS ....................................... 14

10. WRITTEN SURVEY RESULTS................. 18

11. CARERS’ VIEWS.......................................... 19

12. CONSULTATION SUMMARIES.............. 20

13. KEY POINTS BY LOCATION................. 20

14. KEY POINTS BY CULTURAL GROUP .21

15. KEY POINTS – SERVICE PROVIDERS 22

16. SHIRE SPECIFIC KEY POINTS .............. 22

17. AREAS FOR FURTHER CONSULTATION 25

18. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER STUDIES/PLANS 26

19. CONCLUSION............................................. 27

20. REVIEW ........................................................ 27

21. REFERENCES.............................................. 27

22. APPENDICES .............................................. 27

Appendix 1 Further issues Recommendations.................. 27

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1 . FOREWORD FROM SHIRE PRESIDENT

It gives me great pleasure to introduce this report on the Shire of Busselton’s Age-Friendly Community Project which is based on the World Health Organisation’s active-ageing framework for age-friendly communities. This approach is being supported across WA by the Department for Communities and in the South West region by the South West Development Commission.

An age-friendly community is one which:

� recognises the great diversity among older people

� promotes their inclusion and contribution in all areas of community life

� respects their decisions and lifestyle choices and

� anticipates and responds flexibly to ageing-related needs and preferences.

The Shire of Busselton aspires to create and maintain such an environment for its senior citizens, recognizing that what is beneficial for our older citizens is also helpful for all age groups.

I would like to thank the many people who have contributed to this project through their generous donation of time and expertise. This includes seniors, their carers and those who provide services to them. Without their input, it would not have been possible to complete this project. They have provided the information and real life experience which have informed this report’s recommendations.

I would also like to thank the Department for Communities and the South West Development Commission which have contributed both funding and staff expertise to guide the project. This ongoing support has been much appreciated. I sincerely thank too the members of the Shire-based reference group and those who served on the project advisory group, particularly the community members. The Manager, staff and members of the Busselton Senior Citizens Centre also provided a range of help and support with this project which is gratefully acknowledged. We are indebted also to the South West Rural Respite Services who assisted with interviewing carers.

Finally, I would like to commend this report to all relevant stakeholders with the wish that everyone will play their part to achieve a vibrant and safe age-friendly community in the Shire of Busselton.

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Population ageing is a significant challenge for Australia. It is estimated that by 2026 almost one person in four will be a senior. In the Shire of Busselton, approximately 26% of the population is currently 55 years and over. It is forecast that the number of people aged 50+ years in the Shire will nearly double between 2007 and 2026.

With such significant numbers of older residents, it is imperative that the Shire adopts a comprehensive approach to providing the necessary infrastructure and services to support these older Australians. This includes an accessible outdoor environment, good transport options, appropriate and affordable housing, well-planned neighbourhoods, opportunities for social participation, and accessible health services.

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The Shire of Busselton has expressed the wish to develop an Age-Friendly Strategy using the World Health Organisation framework to ensure coverage of all relevant areas. Within WA, the Department for Communities has supported this approach by local governments which is supported in turn by the South West Development Commission throughout south west WA.

The Busselton Age-Friendly Community project has its foundation in broad community consultation through community meetings with seniors, a written survey of seniors, meetings with service providers and interviews with carers. For the most part there was a clear convergence of views.

The majority of project participants expressed satisfaction with their choice to live in the Shire of Busselton. They appreciated the lifestyle, the environment and the services available. The main focus of their suggestions for improvement concerned:

� Affordable well-designed seniors housing

� Recognition for volunteers

� Improved communication about services and activities available

� Better access to specialists and allied health services

� More respite care services

� Increased and more flexible home support services

� Pedestrian safety (more and better crossings, improved maintenance of footpaths, accessibility by wheelchair/gopher)

� Toilet facilities ( more required, better upkeep needed)

� More seating on main street, with shade and less exposure to weather

� Need for better public transport

� Parking for seniors

The report which follows provides greater detail about these suggestions and a series of accompanying recommendations. It also recognizes that the Shire is not responsible for all the issues raised above but can play its part to influence other stakeholders.

3. PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS

The written survey asked respondents to select from a list of 10 options the three most important elements in the development of the Shire’s Age-Friendly Community Strategy. Items were ranked as shown below:

Table 1 Responses to Written Survey Question: What do you consider to be the three most important elements in the development of the Shire’s Age-Friendly Strategy?

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NB A few respondents selected more than three elements. All selections have been included.

The table above indicates that seniors who participated in the survey rated as most important for inclusion in the Shire’s Age-Friendly Community Strategy:

� Support for seniors in their homes

� A focus on good health and fitness

� Increased health care options in the Shire.

� Respect and inclusion for seniors

It is recommended therefore that the Shire develop its Age-Friendly Strategy around these four highest ranked items as priority areas that were cited most frequently during the workshops and community survey. The priority recommendations which follow address different aspects of these areas. Many of them address more than one of them. Recommendations on other issues are listed in Appendix 1. The Shire has indicated that it will focus initially on the priority recommendations whilst seeking to address all issues in due course.

Priority Recommendations

Recommendation 1: That the Shire lobby (a) the State Government to provide/facilitate affordable seniors housing in the Shire of Busselton including public and community rentals, transition housing for those requiring minimum support, housing for aboriginal seniors and aged care homes (high and low care) (b) developers to locate in the Dunsborough area a retirement village or similar which incorporates age-friendly features such as good access to local amenities and services. Recommendation 2: That the Shire liaise with providers of home care services to identify barriers to increased service provision and to investigate ways to overcome these barriers. Recommendation 3: That the Shire investigate the feasibility of purchasing a community bus to provide pick-up services for house-bound residents to enable access to social activities.

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Recommendation 4: That the Shire (a) consider the suggestion for a Senior Citizens Centre in Dunsborough; or, either as an alternative or a temporary measure, ways to include Dunsborough residents in activities at the BSCC. (b) include the proposal for a Dunsborough Senior Citizens Centre in its future planning and work with the SWDC to investigate possible future funding options (c) review current capacity of the Busselton Seniors Citizen Centre in light of population forecasts to ensure that adequate facilities (including appropriate parking) are provided now and in the future, including with reference to the needs of Dunsborough/Capes residents. Recommendation 5: That the Shire review the annual cycle of community events to ensure that it includes intergenerational events and a balance of events designed to meet the needs of all age groups and those from different cultural backgrounds. Recommendation 6: That in recognition of the request for a bigger swimming pool, the Shire explore options including promotion of under-utilised periods of swimming pool usage. Recommendation 7: That the Shire consult with a broad spectrum of volunteers (including with the local volunteer resource centre) about their preferences for recognition; review its annual volunteer recognition event in light of this consultation; and share the consultation findings with volunteer organisations operating in the Shire. Recommendation 8: That the Shire publicise more widely information about services available to senior residents e.g. through regular reminders/updates in the local newspaper and through wide distribution of hard copies of the Need A Hand directory. Recommendation 9: That the Shire lobby the State Government (in particular the Department of Health) to provide as part of the redevelopment of Busselton Hospital more specialist and allied health services) e.g. stoma therapists and cancer nurses) and better care arrangements for dementia patients. Recommendation 10: That the Shire lobby the State Government to provide more respite care services in the Shire. Recommendation 11: That the Shire of Busselton improve its built environment to serve older people's needs through measures such as more and better marked pedestrian crossings, more and better maintained/designed toilet facilities, covered drop-off set-down points, more sheltered outdoor seating and safe gopher access to the Busselton Senior Citizens Centre. Recommendation 12: That in consultation with Veolia Transport and the State Government (and in particular the WA Department of Transport), the Shire investigate further seniors' needs in regard to public transport and how these can be met. Recommendation 13: That the Shire review its provision of ACROD bays and encourage more seniors to obtain an ACROD sticker to use these bays; and discuss with private providers the provision of seniors bays in private car parks. Recommendation 14: That the Shire consider the following requests from Dunsborough/Capes senior residents relating to their built environment and services: better signage for facilities and amenities, a review of pedestrian routes in CBD, more seating, improved access to Post Office, improved pedestrian access to Naturaliste Community Centre, location of markets, and a suggestion for a library shopfront in central Dunsborough.

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Recommendation 15: That the Shire provide increased aboriginal acknowledgement in all relevant areas including welcome to town signage, at the Library and Visitor Centre, and at Shire sponsored events.

4. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

In February 2011 the Shire of Busselton appointed JM Community Development Projects to facilitate a Shire of Busselton Age-Friendly Community Project. The desired outcome was a report which defined the needs and wishes of seniors within the Shire of Busselton, to enable informed and appropriate service provisions to be devised, using the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Guidelines, community consultation and workshops and in collaboration with other agencies. The final report will inform Council’s Strategic Plan action to ‘prepare a strategy to assist the aged’.

The project and final report are based on the Age Friendly Communities Framework, an internationally tested framework developed by the WHO which can be used to investigate and enhance the age-friendliness of a community. Participation by seniors in the process is a core aspect to the framework. The WA Department for Communities supports an age-friendly approach as the most effective way to encourage seniors to stay connected and to participate in their community. As local government authorities are best placed to explore the issues faced by seniors as they age, the Department has provided funding to assist them in adopting an age-friendly approach to their strategic planning. This funding, together with funding and support from both the South West Development Commission (SWDC) and the Shire of Busselton, has enabled the project to be completed.

There are two main phases in becoming an age-friendly community:

Phase One requires information gathering and analysis; and

Phase Two requires implementation of findings from phase one into the local planning process following Council adoption of the Report.

In the first phase information is acquired about eight essential features of an age-friendly community which are:

Outdoor spaces and Buildings

Transport

Housing

Social participation

Respect and social inclusion

Civic participation and employment

Communication and information, and

Community support and Health Services

This first phase has been completed over the period February to June 2011 and the findings are documented into this report.

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5. COMMUNITY PROFILE

This section aims to provide a description of the communities within the Shire of Busselton municipal area. Much of the information in this section is derived from the Shire’s “Local Settlement Planning Strategy (LSPS) Report 1 - Shire Profile”, prepared by Land Insights, and its sources (chiefly the ABS 2006 Shire of Busselton profile).

The Shire of Busselton comprises 145,400 hectares on the west coast of Western Australia approximately 220 kilometres south of Perth. It has a population of 26,638 recorded in the 2006 census. It is bounded to the north by the Shire of Capel, to the east by the Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup and to the south by the Shires of Augusta-Margaret River and Nannup. The main settlements are Busselton and Dunsborough, with other residential areas including Yallingup, Eagle Bay, Commonage, Vasse, Carbunup River, Metricup and Jarrahwood.

According to the Shire’s Local Settlement Planning Strategy, its population is expected to grow from 26,638 in 2006 to 61,343 by 2036. By 2051 this population will have grown to 90,107. This represents an annual average rate of growth of 2.92% per annum over the 30 years to 2036 and 2.81% per annum over the 45 year period to 2051. The number of people aged 50+ is expected to grow from 8,725 in 2006 (33% of the Shire’s population) to 17,406 in 2026 and 32,186 in 2051; this represents an increase of 269% over the period 2006 to 2051. In the South West Busselton has one of the highest proportions of population 50+ years. The percentage of people aged 65 and above nationally is 13.3% and in the Shire of Busselton it is 2% higher at 15.3% of the total population. The South West Active Ageing Report, completed for the SWDC in 2010, states that “The ageing of the ‘baby boomer’ generation is the major demographic trend that will significantly impact on the South West over the next 20 years”.

Busselton and Dunsborough are the focus of the majority of the urban, commercial and industrial land uses. Other settlements are significantly smaller than these two, and many are constrained for future growth – by either physical or environmental features, or as a result of current planning policy.

The towns of Busselton, Dunsborough and Yallingup are popular tourist destinations for recreational activities such as boating, fishing and swimming. The central inland area of the Shire is mainly agricultural. The western coast of the Shire and a large flat area at the eastern end of the Shire are reserved for conservation and/or recreational purposes. The Shire’s economy is based predominantly on agriculture, accommodation and food services, construction, retail, and manufacturing. The Shire attracts significant visitor numbers, with approximately 603,500 overnight visitors per annum and 430,000 day trip visitors.

Table 1 below shows the usual residents of the Shire by age group indicating that currently 26.4% of the population is 55 and over.

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Table 1 usual residents of Busselton by age group

Usual residents by age group

Male % Female % Persons%

0-4 6.7 6.4 6.6

5-14 16.2 14.5 15.3

15-19 6.8 6.4 6.6

20-24 4.8 4.2 4.5

25-34 11.4 11.5 11.4

35-44 14.8 15.1 15

45-54 13.9 14.5 14.2

55-64 11.2 10.9 11.1

65-74 7.7 8.2 8.0

75-84 5.1 5.9 5.5

85+ 1.3 2.3 1.8

(Source: Shire of Busselton Local Planning Strategy 2009 and ABS 2006 Shire of Busselton Profile)

Table 2 breaks these numbers down according to residence in Busselton, Dunsborough, the Busselton Region and the Dunsborough/Capes region. This second table indicates that the proportions of older people are higher for the towns than their respective regions. This may be due to a requirement for facilities such as health or aged care, or perhaps the towns are attract retirees who have previously lived elsewhere. The trend over time for the older age groups declines steeply, with the exception of Busselton town which may be because older people are moving to Busselton from elsewhere. It is evident also that Busselton has the highest percentage of people aged 65 years or older within the Shire. This fact will in itself need careful consideration in regard to age friendly strategies developed as a result of this study.

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Table 2 Percentage of residents by age group for Shire of Busselton and its regions

% residents by age group

0 - 4 5 - 1 4 15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 8 5 +

Busselton 6 . 3 1 5 . 3 6 . 6 5 . 0 1 0 . 6 1 3 . 8 1 3 . 7 1 0 . 7 8 . 9 6 . 7 2 . 4

Busselton Region

6 . 5 1 6 . 5 7 . 9 3 . 0 1 0 . 0 1 6 1 7 . 7 1 2 . 6 6 . 1 3 . 1 0 . 4

Dunsb’gh 8 . 0 1 4 . 7 6 . 0 4 . 3 1 7 . 2 1 7 . 7 1 2 . 6 9 . 5 6 . 1 3 . 4 0 . 5

Dunsb’gh Region

7 . 1 1 5 . 4 6 . 2 2 . 8 1 0 . 7 1 7 . 8 1 6 . 9 1 3 . 8 6 . 4 2 . 6 0 . 4

Total 6 . 6 1 5 . 3 6 . 6 4 . 5 1 1 . 4 1 5 . 0 1 4 . 2 1 1 . 1 8 . 0 5 . 5 1 . 8

(Source: Shire of Busselton Local Planning Strategy 2009 and ABS 2006 Shire of Busselton Profile)

It is worth noting that for the 55 to 64 year age group there is a significantly higher proportion in the labour force in Perth than in the Busselton Shire. This may be indicative of Busselton Shire residents retiring early, or perhaps Busselton Shire being an attractive option for young retirees from outside the Shire. Alternatively it may indicate a lack of employment options.

The following information provides a snapshot of the Shire of Busselton profile in terms of housing, income and rental statistics.

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Table 3 Housing, income and rental statistics

Housing loan repayments ($/month)

Two peak ranges $750 - $1,399 (40%)

$1,600 - $2,999 (26%)

Rent ($/wk)

Most Housing Authority rentals charge $50 - $99

Most other rentals charge $140 - $274

Family income ($/wk)

Two peak ranges $1,000 – 1,199 (15.8%)

$500-649 (12.7%)

Household income ($/wk)

Two peak ranges $1,000 – 1,199 (13.7%)

$500-649 (13.6%)

Average household size

2.9 persons

(Source: Shire of Busselton Local Planning Strategy and ABS 2006 Shire of Busselton Profile)

6. METHODOLOGY

The project methodology has been characterized by a strong emphasis on consultation with seniors resident in the Shire of Busselton, with support and input from a range of other stakeholders. For the purpose of this study, the definition of “senior” is that used by the Department for Communities for eligibility for a WA Seniors Card: aged 60+ years.

The project was launched on 8 February 2011 with an official function hosted by the Shire President and attended by Councillors, Shire staff and representatives of a broad range of organisations which either comprise chiefly seniors in their membership or provide services to seniors.

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The project was guided by two groups, a reference group comprising Shire staff from a range of relevant departments and an advisory group comprising representatives from the seniors’ community, the SWDC, the Department for Communities and the Shire. These two groups met at strategic points in the project to provide suggestions and feedback on progress. Their work, in particular that of the community representatives is gratefully acknowledged.

Throughout the project there was regular contact with the Department for Communities through emails, workshop attendance and a one-on-one meeting to obtain input and guidance from the team which is coordinating this approach across West Australian local government authorities.

The first step was to publicise the project and invite participation. This was accomplished through a range of means (notices in the newspaper and on public noticeboards, information at the Library and Shire reception, direct mail to relevant organizations, the Shire’s website and regular newsletters, and through personal contact. Those who expressed interest were invited to complete a Participant Information Sheet.

Three mechanisms were used to obtain input to the project from seniors and other stakeholders:

� Small community meetings

� A written survey

� Telephone interviews

Participants were given the option to choose between attending a meeting or completing a written survey. Telephone interviews were conducted with carers as this was the most time effective way to include this group.

Community meetings were held as follows between 4 April and 6 May at a range of locations designed to suit the participant group:

� 2 meetings in Busselton for seniors held at the Busselton Senior Citizens Centre (one for those 60-74 years and one for those 75+ years)

� One meeting in Dunsborough for seniors held at the Naturaliste Community Centre (for all seniors age groups)

� One meeting for indigenous seniors held at the Busselton Youth and Community Centre

� 2 meetings for service providers held in the Shire Committee Room and the Chamber

Meeting attendance varied from 6 to 12, with the average being around 8.

The written survey was sent/given to approximately 140 seniors and was completed by 76 respondents. The written survey included the opportunity for seniors to select from a list the three elements which they rated as most important in the development of the Shire’s Age-Friendly Community Strategy.

Telephone interviews were conducted with 10 carers.

The Shire Council has also been kept informed of progress as the project has unfolded through a briefing on 18 May and another planned for 13 July.

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7. LIMITATIONS

The following limitations are noted and should be borne in mind in any interpretation of the data:

� The project necessarily comprises the amalgamated views of those who participated. Overall there were 128 participants. Some people declined to participate and there were undoubtedly many who remained unaware of the project despite its wide publication.

� Not all seniors who wished to attend a meeting were able to do so due to other commitments/activities. Where possible, these seniors were given the opportunity to complete the written survey instead.

� Greatest weight has been given to issues and suggestions which were expressed by a significant number of participants.

� Those who participated were in the main active and engaged members of the community. This is a limitation of many public consultation processes because this group will tend to participate in greater numbers than those who are less engaged with their community.

� Although efforts were made to engage seniors living in the Dunsborough/Capes region, the majority of participants were from Busselton. However, the percentage of residents over 65 is much greater in the Busselton area than it is in the Dunsborough/Capes area (28% compared to 19%).

� Some participants in the written survey selected more than the requested three elements which they rated as most important in the development of the Shire’s Age-Friendly Community Strategy. All selections have been included but this has affected the data.

� The most readily available and reliable population statistics are the 2006 ABS Shire of Busselton census. This data will be updated later this year with the 2011 census. The ABS data uses different age bands from the target group proposed by the Department of Communities for age-friendly studies.

� Although it was originally intended to hold separate meetings for participants depending on whether they were 60-74 or 75 years plus, due to logistical issues some of the groups were mixed ages.

� It proved difficult to identify carers per se. Carers tended either not to identify themselves as such or to be very busy and not available to participate. Nonetheless, some carers did participate in the meetings, the written survey and by telephone interview.

8. CHARACTERISTICS OF PARTICIPANTS

Based on the 2006 ABS data the population of the Shire of Busselton was 19,684, with 26.4% people were aged 55 and above and 15.3% being 65 and above. 128 people participated in the current project including 109 seniors aged 60 years and above. This corresponds to nearly 3% of the population of seniors aged 65 and above (see note above about the differences in age bands in available statistics).

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The percentage of those 60-74 who completed the written survey was 64% compared to 36% being 75 years plus. This probably reflects both overall population trends and less engagement on the part of older seniors. Older seniors showed a preference to participate by way of written survey.

The 109 seniors who participated in the meetings and written survey were 63% female. A somewhat higher percentage of men participated in the written survey than the meetings (41% compared to 21%).

The overwhelming majority of respondents to the written survey were from the Busselton region at 96%. Nonetheless the meeting held in Dunsborough was well attended and generated much discussion. Dunsborough/Capes residents comprised 32% of those who attended meetings.

The two meetings for service providers were attended by representatives of the following types of organisations, many of whom were themselves seniors: Senior Citizens Centre, churches, medical centres, WA Community Health Service – social work, home and community service providers, and the hospice.

The written survey included the collection a range of personal information. Key points are highlighted below:

� Gender: 59.2% of respondents were female

� Age: 64.4% were aged 60-74, the rest being 75 +

� Health: 51.4% described their health as being good, with another 44.4%% selecting excellent or fair in equal proportions. Only 4.2% described themselves as having poor health.

� Address: 87.3 % live in Busselton, with 8.5% in the Busselton region. The remaining 4.4% lived in Dunsborough or the Dunsborough/Capes region.

� 74% described themselves as a pensioner, 46.6% as a volunteer and 28.8% as a self-funded retiree.

� Dwelling: 85.1% live in their own home, and 10.4% live in a retirement village. Very few live in rental properties, either public or private.

� 50.7% live with their spouse/partner, 43.8% live alone, and a few live with other relatives.

� Lifestyle: 77.5% said that they led an active lifestyle, with 42.3% having strong social connections in the Shire and 39.4% having strong family ties in the Shire. Only 5.6% respondents reported feeling isolated and lonely.

� Carers: 14.3% identified themselves either as a carer for someone at home (10.7%) or in their community (3.6%).

9. MAIN FINDINGS

The consultation process generated a wealth of information about seniors’ views and their needs.

At the 6 community meeting, through the written survey responses and the telephone interviews with carers, a number of issues stood out as being common to a large number of participants. These issues are listed below under the 8 main framework headings:

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Housing

� A greater range of seniors housing options including more affordable accommodation and options for those living in the Dunsborough area

Recommendation 1: That the Shire lobby

(a) the State Government to provide/facilitate affordable seniors housing in the Shire of Busselton including public and community rentals, transition housing for those requiring minimum support, housing for aboriginal seniors and aged care homes (high and low care)

(b) developers to locate in the Dunsborough area a retirement village or similar which incorporates age-friendly features such as good access to local amenities and services.

� More home care services needed

Recommendation 2: That the Shire liaise with providers of home care services to identify barriers to increased service provision and to investigate ways to overcome these barriers.

Respect and Social Inclusion

� Insufficient pick-up services for those house bound, increasing social isolation

Recommendation 3: That the Shire investigate the feasibility of purchasing a community bus to provide pick-up services for house-bound residents to enable access to social activities.

� Senior Citizens Centre needed in Dunsborough and capacity of Busselton Senior Citizens Centre to be reviewed

Recommendation 4: That the Shire

(a) consider the suggestion for a Senior Citizens Centre in Dunsborough; or, either as an alternative or a temporary measure, ways to include Dunsborough residents in activities at the BSCC.

(b) include the proposal for a Dunsborough Senior Citizens Centre in its future planning and work with the SWDC to investigate possible future funding options

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(c) review current capacity of the Busselton Seniors Citizen Centre in light of population forecasts to ensure that adequate facilities (including appropriate parking) are provided now and in the future, including with reference to the needs of Dunsborough/Capes residents.

� More intergenerational events and more events suited to the needs of different age groups and cultural backgrounds

Recommendation 5: That the Shire review the annual cycle of community events to ensure that it includes intergenerational events and a balance of events designed to meet the needs of all age groups and those from different cultural backgrounds.

Social Participation

� A bigger swimming pool needed

Recommendation 6: That in recognition of the request for a bigger swimming pool, the Shire explore options including promotion of under-utilised periods of swimming pool usage.

Civic Participation and Employment

� A lot of options for volunteers, limited options for paid employment but not many seeking this

� More recognition for volunteers e.g. though more inclusive volunteer events, newspaper articles

Recommendation 7: That the Shire consult with a broad spectrum of volunteers (including with the local volunteer resource centre) about their preferences for recognition; review its annual volunteer recognition event in light of this consultation; and share the consultation findings with volunteer organisations operating in the Shire.

Communication and Information

� More information and better dissemination about services available

� Need A Hand directory to be distributed widely

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Recommendation 8: That the Shire publicise more widely information about services available to senior residents e.g. through regular reminders/updates in the local newspaper and through wide distribution of hard copies of the Need A Hand directory.

Community Support and Health Services

� Better access to specialists needed

Recommendation 9: That the Shire lobby the State Government (in particular the Department of Health) to provide as part of the redevelopment of Busselton Hospital more specialist and allied health services) e.g. stoma therapists and cancer nurses) and better care arrangements for dementia patients.

� More respite beds required

Recommendation 10: That the Shire lobby the State Government to provide more respite care services in the Shire.

� More flexible home care services – See earlier recommendation.

Outdoor Spaces and Buildings

� Pedestrian safety (more and better crossings and improved maintenance of footpaths)

� Toilet facilities ( more required, better upkeep needed, suitable for wheelchair/disabled users)

� More seating on main street, with shade and less exposure to weather

� Safe gopher access to Busselton Senior Citizens Centre (BSSC)

Recommendation 11: That the Shire of Busselton improve its built environment to serve older people’s needs through measures such as more and better marked pedestrian crossings, more and better maintained/designed toilet facilities, covered drop-off set-down points, more sheltered outdoor seating and safe gopher access to the Busselton Senior Citizens Centre.

Transport

� Inadequate public transport (frequency, routes, sheltered bus stops)

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Recommendation 12: That in consultation with Veolia Transport and the State Government (and in particular the WA Department of Transport), the Shire investigate further seniors’ needs in regard to public transport and how these can be met.

� Suggestions for seniors parking bays

Recommendation 13: That the Shire review its provision of ACROD bays and encourage more seniors to obtain an ACROD sticker to use these bays; and discuss with private providers the provision of seniors bays in private car parks.

Nevertheless, even though the participants identified the improvements required above, the overall view, expressed at meetings and substantiated by the written survey, was that seniors liked living in Busselton appreciating the lifestyle, the amenities and the services available to them.

Participants were particularly full of praise for the Busselton Senior Citizens Centre which they saw as providing an active social hub, affordable meals and a wide range of activities.

The services provided by BESS, Meals on Wheels, CapeCare and other similar organisations were also much appreciated.

Another striking aspect was the enormous extent to which participants volunteered in the community and the evident satisfaction which this gave the volunteers.

10 . WRITTEN SURVEY RESULTS

The written survey results show that overall respondents are well satisfied with their physical and social environment. With the exception of three categories, all items were rated by the highest percentage of respondents as either good, excellent or not applicable.

The three categories which were rated lower by the majority of respondents as at best “so-so” were:

� Sufficient outdoor seating

� Maintenance of pavements

� Activities that bring generations together

These were issues raised through the community meetings as well.

A number of other issues attracted a combined rating of “so-so”, poor and very poor which exceeded positive ratings. These issues are:

� Public toilets – cleanliness and maintenance

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� Public toilets – number and location

� Pedestrian crossings

� Accessibility by gopher

� Availability of public transport

� Reliability and frequency of public transport

� Accessibility of information about public transport

Once again this second set of issues was also highlighted in the community meeting discussions.

A number of issues whilst they were rated not applicable by a large number of respondents, actually received a combined rating of “so-so”, poor and very poor, which exceeded positive ratings. These issues are:

� Opportunities for paid employment

� Flexibility of work arrangements

� Training and re-training opportunities in the workforce

� Opportunities for further education and training

� Support for volunteers (e.g. reimbursement of expenses)

� Affordability of housing /accommodation

� Supply of public rental accommodation

� Availability of independent living units

� Supply of supported accommodation i.e. hostel or nursing home

� Access to residential care facilities (retirement homes and nursing homes)

Whilst the above list of issues may be regarded as not applicable by many, for the majority of those who rated these items they were issues of concern. For example, it is clear from the survey and the community meetings that very few seniors in the Shire are seeking paid employment but for the few who are, options are very limited. Similarly for those with lower levels of financial resources, the affordability of suitable housing including rental accommodation is an issue. For those seeking access to aged care homes, there is concern about the adequacy of provision of these facilities.

11 . CARERS’ VIEWS

As noted elsewhere in this report, it was difficult to locate carers to interview as they were either too busy with their caring role or did not identify themselves as carers as they were caring for a family member, usually their spouse.

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As at 28 June, 10 carers had been interviewed by telephone including some interviewed through the South West Rural Respite Services. As the notes of these interviews (Appendix 3) show, in the main the same points came up as in both the community meetings and the written survey. The main differences were as follows:

� Wheelchair access to shops and other businesses is a particular concern. Wheelchair users frequently have to conduct their shopping outside the premises with the help of a shop assistant. NB The Shire is already conducting a disability audit of Busselton and Dunsborough CBDs to identify all accessibility barriers for prioritisation and scheduling of action.

� Parking was also seen as a significant issue as seniors who need the assistance of a carer frequently have mobility difficulties and require parking close to services/businesses they are visiting.

� The lack of sufficient toilets is a pressing issue for those who cannot walk far. See Recommendation 1 above.

� Dementia patients have particular needs in hospital (proximity to nursing station, activation systems for patient movement) – see earlier recommendation.

On the whole this group was highly complimentary about the provision of community and health services.

12 . CONSULTATION SUMMARIES

A detailed summary of views expressed at the community meetings is attached at Appendix 2 The most common points have been included in the preceding section on main findings.

An analysis of the written survey data, generated through Survey Monkey, is also attached at Appendix 3.

Notes of interviews with carers are included at Appendix 4.

13 . KEY POINTS BY LOCATION

As indicated previously, the vast majority of the participants were from Busselton or the Busselton region (96%). Therefore the focus of a number of the main findings relate to Busselton although some are Shire-wide e.g. the need for better communication and the need for more respite beds. However, the one meeting held in Dunsborough was the best attended of all the workshops (12) and produced much lively discussion.

The following points are highlighted as being identified of particular importance to a number of Dunsborough participants:

� Retirement village needed in Dunsborough – See earlier recommendation

� Senior Citizens Centre needed in Dunsborough - See earlier recommendation

� Better signage in Dunsborough for facilities and amenities (e.g. signs to beach, toilets, doctor, chemist, police and several large town maps)

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� Need to review pedestrian routes in central Dunsborough

� Need more seating in Dunsborough e.g. in shopping centre, around Coles, at bus stop.

� Access to Post Office needs to be improved (5-minute bay suggested and reduction of traffic congestion)

� Better public transport needed (greater frequency) – See earlier recommendation

� Pedestrian access to the Naturaliste Community Centre needs improvement

� Prefer markets to be in central Dunsborough.

� Proposal for shopfront for the Library in central Dunsborough.

Recommendation 14: That the Shire consider the following requests from Dunsborough/Capes senior residents relating to their built environment and services: better signage for facilities and amenities, a review of pedestrian routes in CBD, more seating, improved access to Post Office, improved pedestrian access to Naturaliste Community Centre, location of markets, and a suggestion for a library shopfront in central Dunsborough.

“If you can’t drive, you can’t live in Dunsborough!” – comment from one Dunsborough resident.

14 . KEY POINTS BY CULTURAL GROUP

A unique component of the Shire Busselton Age-Friendly project was the decision to hold a community meeting with the specific purpose of obtaining input from indigenous members of the community. Five senior members of the Busselton indigenous community attended the meeting and expressed their views.

Many of the issues mentioned were similar to those raised at the other community meetings (e.g. toilet facilities, pedestrian crossings, more seating in main street, seniors parking bays, inadequate public transport, more affordable housing, more intergenerational events, better distribution of Need A Hand directory, more/better home support services).

A few issues were only raised at this meeting and should be considered further:

� Aboriginal housing for seniors (similar to facilities in Perth) – see earlier recommendation and Appendix 1

� Events for seniors, maybe outdoors (e.g. country & western, aboriginal bands) – see earlier recommendation

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� Activities for families (e.g. a fun park with free entry) – see earlier recommendation as well as Appendix 1

� Increased aboriginal acknowledgement (e.g. in welcome signage to town, welcome to country at prominent events such as Southbound, at Library and Visitor Centre)

Recommendation 15: That the Shire provide increased aboriginal acknowledgement in all relevant areas including welcome to town signage, at the Library and Visitor Centre, and at Shire sponsored events.

15 . KEY POINTS – SERVICE PROVIDERS

Two of the six community meetings were designed for those who provide services to seniors. These meetings were attended by a wide range of providers as noted in the section on participant characteristics.

The findings of these two meetings were not noticeably different from those of the other community meetings which were for seniors. Therefore the findings have been included in the section on main findings. For example, service providers shared the concerns expressed by seniors about toilet facilities, pedestrian safety, public transport and the need for increased and more flexible community care services.

Because of their roles as service providers, these two groups were often quite specific about needs and possible solutions. For example they highlighted:

� the lack of a stoma therapist

� possible public housing models

� the need for toilets designed to accommodate wheelchairs and carers

� better designed houses for seniors (e.g. all should have a toilet door which can be opened externally in case of a fall)

� need for wheelchair access to sea (not just to sand)

� factors which cause other problems e.g. loss of driving licence leading to social isolation

� the need for more activities which appeal to male seniors

These points have been addressed in earlier recommendations.

16 . SHIRE SPECIFIC KEY POINTS

The issues identified in the preceding sections vary widely as to the body/organization responsible for them. All issues will be pursued by the Shire with the relevant body/organization.

Some issues fall more directly than others into the Shire’s area of responsibility. For ease of reference, these are listed below with the section of the Shire responsible:

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Outdoor Spaces and Buildings

� Disability audit of Busselton and Dunsborough CBDs to identify all accessibility barriers for prioritization and scheduling of action – Community and Commercial Services, Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services (NB This audit is currently underway.)

� Planning for future development to consider how issues raised in this report should influence future planning decisions and incorporate measures to address these issues in the town planning scheme (e.g. seniors housing to be located near services, seniors housing needs well-planned pedestrian and bus routes, private developments to be required to include age-friendly features) – Planning and Development Services

� Pedestrian safety (more and better crossings and improved maintenance of footpaths) – Engineering and Works

� Toilet facilities ( more required, better upkeep needed) - Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services (NB Provision of toilets will be addressed in foreshore redevelopment in Busselton an Dunsborough but facilities required in other areas)

� Gopher access to BSSC – Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services (this is expected to be in the Shire’s budget for 2011/12)

� More seating on Busselton main street, with shade and less exposure – Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services

� Need more seating in Dunsborough e.g. in shopping centre, around Coles, at bus stop – Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services

� Better signage in Dunsborough for facilities and amenities e.g. beach, toilets, doctor, chemist, police - Engineering and Works

� Need to review pedestrian routes in central Dunsborough – Engineering and Works and Planning and Development Services

� Access to Dunsborough Post Office needs to be improved (5-minute bay suggested and reduction of traffic congestion) – Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services

� Increased aboriginal acknowledgement (e.g. in welcome signage to town, welcome to country at prominent events such as Southbound, at Library and Visitor Centre) – Community and Commercial Services, Engineering and Works

Transport

� Sheltered bus stops – responsibility for this issue is currently under review – Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services

� Seniors parking bays – responsible for those on public land – Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services

Housing

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� Retirement village needed in Dunsborough – Shire can pursue with developers, perhaps a National Lifestyle Village may be an option - Planning and Development Services

� More affordable seniors housing needed (retirement villages are expensive) – Community and Commercial Services

� Aboriginal housing for seniors (similar to facilities in Perth) – Shire can pursue with other agencies – Community and Commercial Services, Planning and Development Services

� More home care services needed – Shire could provide assistance e.g. sponsor another vehicle for BESS – Community and Commercial Services

Respect and Social Inclusion

� Insufficient pick-up services for those house bound, increasing social isolation - Shire could provide assistance e.g. fund a shire community bus to collect socially isolated for BSSC meals/activities and to transport Dunsborough residents to the BSSC or swimming pool, sponsor another vehicle for BESS – Community and Commercial Services

� Senior Citizens Centre needed in Dunsborough – Community and Commercial Services

� More intergenerational activities/events requested – Community and Commercial Services

� Events for seniors, maybe outdoors (e.g. country & western, aboriginal bands) – Community and Commercial Services

� Explore in greater detail with volunteers their preferred options for more recognition and acknowledgement (by Shire and other organsiations) – Community and Commercial Services

Social Participation

� Not enough knowledge in the community about social activities available – Community and Commercial Services

� A bigger swimming pool needed – Community and Commercial Services, Engineering and Works, Planning and Development Services

� Activities for families (e.g. a fun park with free entry) – Community and Commercial Services

Civic Participation and Employment

� More recognition for volunteers (e.g. through more inclusive volunteer events, newspaper articles) – Community and Commercial Services (in consultation with volunteer organisations)

Communication and Information

� More information and better dissemination about services available – Community and Commercial Services

� Need A Hand directory to be distributed widely – Community and Commercial Services have already submitted a grant application to fund this.

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Community Support and Health Services

� -

17. AREAS FOR FURTHER CONSULTATION

A number of areas were identified as requiring further consultation.

State government

� Public transport – consultation required about what services people want and whether existing services can be reconfigured to better serve people’s needs (Discussion also required with Veolia Transport Inc.) – See earlier recommendation

� Centrelink communication and reception procedures – See Appendix 1 Further Recommendations

� Patient Assisted Transport Scheme (procedure seen as too unwieldy) – See Appendix 1 Further Recommendations

� Redevelopment of Busselton Hospital to take account of specialist services currently not available – See earlier recommendation

NB The advisory group has recommended that letters be sent to the state government department responsible for each of the above issues requesting that they address the issues and advise their response.

Chamber of Commerce representing the business community

� Customer seating in retail outlets

� Provision of toilets in retail outlets

� Accessibility of retail outlets for wheelchairs & gophers, including gopher parking places

� Provision of magnifying panels for vision impaired (as per some European supermarkets)

� Seniors parking bays in supermarket car parks

� Development of a Seniors-Friendly Business Strategy – see Appendix 1 Further Recommendations

Busselton Senior Citizens Centre

� Capacity to serve forecast increases in population – see earlier recommendation

� Parking arrangements – see earlier recommendation

� Gopher access (expected to be included in 2011/12 Shire budget) – see earlier recommendation.

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18 . RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER STUDIES/PLANS

The South West Active Ageing Research Report was commissioned by the SWDC and completed in 2010. It was conceived as “the first step in a process to identify what is required to respond to the needs of the ageing of the South West population to deliver better social and physical infrastructure to seniors through the South West”.(p8). It was envisaged that once the initial research project would be completed, there would be a series of future steps to implement the model/framework. The current project is one of the future steps envisaged.

Many of the findings of the current study substantiate those of the South West Active Ageing Research Report which relate to the Shire of Busselton. The earlier report identifies the following issues which have also been raised as part of the Shire’s Age-Friendly project:

� Need for outdoor seating, public toilets and safe traffic crossings

� Need to improve and expand Home and Community Care (HACC) services

� Lack of affordable and appropriate housing options for seniors (need for increased public and community housing, need seniors housing in Dunsborough)

� More respite care services

� Review pedestrian safety in towns

� Improve signage

� Improve walkability of local streets and outdoor spaces

� Improve infrastructure for gopher use (accessible pathways and gopher recharge outlets)

� Ensure location of services close to where older people live

The Shire’s Access and Inclusion Plan also seeks to address a number of issues which are similar to those arising in the current report. Such issues include:

� Accessibility of buildings, facilities, local businesses

� Parking ( adequate ACROD bays – quantity and location)

� Upgrade and maintain footpaths

� Promotion of Need A Hand Directory

The Shire has a standing committee which monitors implementation of the Access and Inclusion Plan and reports regularly both to Council and annually to the State Government.

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19 . CONCLUSION

The overwhelming feedback obtained from this project’s consultation process is that the majority of seniors who participated are pleased that they live in the Shire of Busselton. They appreciate the lifestyle, the environment and the services provided.

Nonetheless significant issues have been identified which need to be addressed in order to cater for everyone’s needs, particularly in view of the fact that the forecast population increases for the Shire will put pressure on existing services and facilities.

The Shire is committed to the development of an Age-Friendly Strategic Plan in order to improve the well-being and experiences of its older residents. A comprehensive plan will ensure that the Shire addresses the issues identified through community consultation, with particular emphasis on four priority areas, and that progress can be regularly monitored. Some of the issues raised are within the Shire’s areas of responsibility and can be considered immediately for inclusion in future works and budgets. Others require either lobbying and consultation with other levels of government or with private enterprise, or they require further investigation before any action can be taken. It is hoped that the contents of this report will provide the necessary basis from which these steps can be taken to improve the well-being of the Shire’s seniors.

20. REVIEW

In order to ensure that progress can be effectively monitored, it is suggested that a formal review be conducted in three years’ time and the results published for the information of the community.

21 . REFERENCES

Busselton Local Settlement Planning Strategy – Shire Profile, Land Insights, December 2009

South West Active Ageing Research Project, South West development Commission, 2010

Shire of Busselton Access and Inclusion Plan

22. APPENDICES

Appendix 1 Further Recommendations

Appendix 2 Summaries of community meetings

Appendix 3 Written survey report

Appendix 4 Notes of interviews with carers

APPENDIX 1 FURTHER ISSUES RECOMMENDATIONS

In addition to the priority recommendations contained in the report, a number of further recommendations have been made and are listed in this Appendix. The Shire has indicated that it will focus initially on the priority recommendations whilst seeking to address all issues in due course.

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� Suggestions for seniors parking bays

Recommendation 16: That the Shire encourage shopping centre developers and owners to provide more covered parking bays for seniors.

Recommendation 17: That the Shire provide a covered drop-off/set-down point in central Busselton.

� Suggestions for driver safety courses

Recommendation 18: That the Shire explore with the RAC and the police the provision of driver safety courses for older drivers.

� Improve traffic flow in central Busselton (make Queen St a one-way street.; or open up Ford Rd to take pressure off main street; or deviate caravans to Cammileri St instead of Queen St)

Recommendation 19: That the Shire review options to improve the traffic flow in central Busselton.

� Not enough knowledge in the community about social activities available

Recommendation 20: That the Shire consider making space available for community organization notices within its section in the local newspaper.

� Civic participation sometimes difficult due to procedures

Recommendation 21: That the Shire review its procedures which are most commonly used by volunteer groups to determine whether they can be streamlined for greater ease of use by residents.

Recommendation 22: That through community engagement the Shire encourage greater levels of community participation in all aspects of civic decision-making.

� More information and better dissemination about services available

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Recommendation 23: That the Shire works with the Department for Communities to ensure up to date information on seniors’ issues is readily available.

� Just because people are frail, they may still have active minds. Activities for seniors need to bear this in mind and cover a wider range of areas.

� Frail aged need shorter bus outings/activities than younger seniors.

Recommendation 24: That the Shire liaise with organisations who organize activities and outings for seniors to provide feedback that varied activities of different durations are needed.

� Aboriginal housing for seniors (similar to facilities in Perth)

� A scheme where people can buy their home in increments of 10% of purchase price, so that they own their own home when they are old.

Recommendation 25: That the Shire lobby the State Government for seniors housing appropriate for aboriginal community members and for innovative ways to ensure that future generations of aboriginal residents are more likely to own their own homes as they become older.

� Activities for families (e.g. a fun park with free entry)

Recommendation 26: That the Shire consider the suggestion for more activities for families such as a free fun park.

� Need to consult whole aboriginal community not just one group.

Recommendation 27: That when seeking input from the Aboriginal community in Busselton, the Shire commit to consult as broadly as possible.

� Ideas for maximizing the benefit of the new Community Resource Centre (e.g. location of Seniors Advice Bureau, drop-in arrangement to consult social worker)

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Recommendation 28: That the Shire maximise the benefits of the new community resource centre through options such as locating the Citizens Advice Bureau in the centre, partnering with the Department of Health to provide a drop-in social work consultation facility, more public toilets, a covered pick-up/set-down option.

� Centrelink communication and reception procedures

Recommendation 29: That the Shire make representation to the State Government for improvements to Centrelink communications to seniors and to its reception procedures in the Busselton office.

� Patient Assisted Transport Scheme (procedure seen as too unwieldy)

Recommendation 30: That the Shire request the State Government to review and streamline the process for accessing the Patient Assisted Transport Scheme so that it becomes more user-friendly.

� The Shire would benefit from one or more of the following:

� A Shire coordinator for seniors issues

� A councillor with responsibility for seniors issues

� An increased budget for Community and Commercial Services

� A Shire standing committee on seniors’ issues e.g. an Aged Networking Group (operating similarly to the Shire’s standing committee on Access and Inclusion).

The project advisory group strongly supported the suggested standing committee on seniors’ issues in order to keep focus and monitor progress.

Recommendation 31: That the Shire review its allocation of resources and personnel to seniors’ issues; and establish a standing committee on seniors issues.

� Development of a Seniors-Friendly Business Strategy – see Appendix 1 Further Recommendations

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Recommendation 32: That the Shire propose to the Chamber of Commerce that it consider the adoption of a Seniors-Friendly Business Strategy which would include items such as customer seating and toilets, accessibility for wheelchairs/gophers, magnifying panels in supermarkets, and seniors parking bays.