While aging was once perceived as a barrier to health, happiness and fun, the residents of Seasons Seniors’ Living at Waterford West are proving these misconceptions wrong.
Every October, the sunshine state celebrates its older residents as part of Queensland Senior’s Month – an initiative dedicated to recognising the contributions of seniors, while also promoting inclusion, connection and support within the community.
Local retiree Jeanette was initially apprehensive about moving into a Seasons community after living on an acreage property for most of her adult life.
But these fears quickly dissipated.
“Before I moved in, I started to really struggle with loneliness because I didn’t have the confidence to put myself out there,” she said.
“But at Seasons, it’s looking you right in the face.
“The residents are happy, the staff are friendly, there are plenty of activities and having that social connection has made the world of difference.”
Jeanette retired from running her family business to help look after her grandchildren – a job she loved and committed to for more than two decades, before finally taking the time for herself.
The theme of Queensland Seniors Month 2024 is ‘Love Getting Older in Queensland’ – a statement Jeanette lives and breathes every day, whether she is taking part in the community’s craft workshops, walking group or catching up with other residents.
“I’m really enjoying the sense of freedom,” Jeanette said.
“It took me a while to accept that I’m getting older, but I’ve realised that shouldn’t stop me from living.
“I love Queensland – it has so much to offer, lots of beautiful places to visit and I wouldn’t live anywhere else.”
Former Hervey Bay local Robyn relocated to Seasons to be closer to family and access its 24/7 onsite care services.
“Everyone is so happy and friendly,” she said.
“The first time we walked into the dining room, we saw everyone sitting together, chatting and laughing and we just thought ‘wow, this is a great place to be.’
“Life is looking pretty rosy now.”
After developing Rheumatic Fever as a child and being told she would not live a long and healthy life by medical professionals, Robyn, who is almost 80 years old, has always embraced life and seized every opportunity with enthusiasm.
She is eagerly awaiting the arrival of her third great grandchild.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there were approximately one billion people in the world aged over 60 years in 2020, a quarter of whom were facing social isolation and loneliness, which are key risk factors for developing mental and physical health conditions.
To prevent this, the WHO report recommended enhancing quality of life, social connections and overall satisfaction in individuals through social activities, creative thinking, building skill sets and reducing ageism.
