GAWLER Care and Share co-ordinator Vanessa Loechel is urging other aged care providers to establish health and wellbeing programs as part of the Department of Health’s newest aged care standards.

From July 1, important changes to the aged care regulations took effect for a stronger focus on outcomes for consumers.

Ms Loechel said more aged care providers needed to be focused on wellness and reablement programs.

“To coincide with the new aged care standards, Gawler Care and Share is seeking to expand its programs,” she said.

“At Gawler Care and Share, we have programs that encourage the elderly to have more social interactions.

“We treat our elderly members with respect and dignity, and this is why it is important to engage them with educational programs.

“It is also important to inform the client about what service they want and need, and to also focus on a personal service.”

She said as well as providing the elderly with educational activities, Gawler Care and Share is also involved with music on a regular basis.

“The programs we offer include chair-based exercises, craft, quizzes, board games, cards and, more recently, technology classes,” Ms Loechel said.

“The Town of Gawler has also been very supportive, making a venue available for us to use.

“Along with many other community groups, Gawler Care and Share utilises the excellent facilities at the Elderly Centre in Gawler South.

“We aim to be as inclusive as possible.

“Along with seniors, we also invite younger people with disabilities to contact us if they think they might enjoy it.”

Gawler Care and Share currently has 40-50 regular attendees who meet every Tuesday at the Elderly Centre, 37 Fourteenth Street, Gawler South from 8.30am-2.30pm.

A morning tea and lunch is provided each week, along with occasional outings.

For further information, contact Vanessa on 0447 710 677.