In this feature we get advice from some of Canberra’s experts in the business of helping seniors enjoy their retirement.

According to 2022-23 ABS statistics, there were more than 4.2 million retirees across Australia, with an average age of 56.9.

While 54 per cent of retirees are women, the number of retired men has increased more than women over the last few years.

Agriculture, forestry and fishing remains the oldest retirement age industry with Australians retiring at almost 70 years old.

Information, media and telecommunications were overtaken by those working in mining for the youngest retirement industry, with workers retiring in their early 60s.

Better sleep for sleep apnoea, without machines

“If you are struggling with snoring, sleep issues, jaw discomfort or teeth grinding, you are not alone – and you don’t have to put up with it,” says Dental Sleep and TMJ clinician Dr Kavitha Vegunta.

With more than 15 years of experience in dental sleep medicine and orofacial pain, Dr Vegunta had dedicated her career to helping patients manage sleep apnoea, TMJ dysfunction and related conditions.

“We help people to allow them to enjoy a deep, restful sleep and experience relief from ongoing pain,” she says.

Offering custom, non-invasive treatments as an alternative to CPAP machines, Dr Vegunta says their mandibular advancement splints work well for mild to moderate sleep apnoea cases.

“Many of our patients experience life-changing improvements in sleep quality, energy levels and overall wellbeing without the machines or complicated procedures,” she says.

Working as a mouthguard of sorts, the splints are designed to gently shift the jaw forward during sleep, Dr Vegunta says they are a travel friendly way to help prevent airways from collapsing during sleep, which is what causes the snoring.

While severe cases of sleep apnoea may not be cured 100 per cent while using the splints, Dr Vegunta says there is still a 60 per cent chance of success.

“We recommend you book a consultation to see if you are a suitable candidate,” she says.

“At our clinic, you’ll find more than treatment. You will find a team that genuinely cares.”

Dental Sleep and TJM Therapy. Francis Chambers, Suite 7/40 Corinna Street, Phillip. Call 6106 9307 or visit dentalsleeptherapy.au

Empowering access through affordability

Open Mobility’s May Madness Sale promotion is an initiative aimed at making mobility aids more affordable for Australians.

A leading provider of mobility and independent living solutions, Open Mobility has launched a series of limited-time discounts across its product range, offering savings on essential items such as scooters, lift chairs, walkers and daily living aids.

“With locations in Tuggeranong and Belconnen plus a strong online presence through openmobility.com.au, the company has built a reputation for not only supplying quality equipment but also delivering personalised service and ongoing support,” says managing director, Michael Standley.

“The current promotion highlights products that cater to a wide range of needs, whether for ageing individuals, people living with disabilities, or even those recovering from injury.”

According to Michael, the May Madness Sale campaign reflects Open Mobility’s broader mission to make independence accessible.

“The discounts remove a key barrier due to the cost of living crisis that too often limits people from acquiring the mobility tools they need to live safely and with dignity,” he says.

Open Mobility, 32 Cohen Street, Belconnen and 310 Anketell Street, Greenway. Call 6108 3899, or visit openmobility.com.au

Pain centre and day hospital does it all in one place

With a commitment to excellence, safety and compassionate care, specialist pain medicine physician, radiation oncologist and interventional pain specialist, Dr Roopa Gawarikar, says at Canberra Region Neurology and Pain Centre, “they are a day hospital for doctors, by doctors.”

Known for their state-of-the-art facilities, Dr Gawarikar says they are recognised by the Australian Council of Healthcare Standards (ACHS) as a “one-of-a-kind facility” in Australian expert-led, multidisciplinary care.

“Having a clinic and day hospital together under one roof has given patients, especially our elderly patients, peace of mind and ease to travel to one location,” she says.

“They see the doctor for initial consultation and if indicated, have all their treatment in the day hospital in the same location.”

Dr Gawarikar says this is a great advantage as their patients don’t have to travel to a bigger hospital if further treatment is required.

“It can be overwhelming for sicker patients who are then required to travel and get around Canberra,” she says.

“This has resulted in high patient satisfaction and outstanding clinical outcomes.”

Canberra Region Neurology and Pain Centre. Unit 2, 34 Corrina Chambers, 36-38 Corrina Street, Phillip. Call 6253 0066 or visit crneurologyandpain.com.au

Creating clear, comfortable vision since 1988

Combining a love of science and a passion for helping people in a meaningful way, Canberra Vision Care optometrist Peter Dodds has been serving the Canberra community since 1988.

“Early detection of vision problems in both children and adults assists in providing the best outcomes for clear and comfortable vision,” says Peter.

“Good vision and healthy eyes are essential for us to function well in our daily lives [and] it is very rewarding to see the joy that people express when they first put on their new spectacles and enjoy clear, comfortable vision.”

Peter says a common misconception about optometry is that wearing glasses might cause eyesight problems or create “lazy eyes” over time.

In reality, he says properly prescribed glasses correct vision and alleviate strain, which can prevent eye fatigue and potential worsening of vision due to untreated vision issues.

“I take care and pride in ensuring that prescriptions are accurate to support optimal eye health and comfort,” he says.

In his 37 years of optometry, Peter has seen the incorporation of advanced technology into his practice.

“Innovations, such as digital retinal imaging, visual field testing and electronic refraction systems have significantly enhanced diagnostic precision, visual field testing and electronic refraction systems have significantly enhanced diagnostic precision and treatment efficacy,” says Peter.

“These advancements have transformed optometry into the primary eye-care profession able to diagnose and treat a broad range of eye health and optical problems.”

Canberra Vision Care, Erindale Shopping Centre, Shop 16A/68 Comrie Street, Wanniassa. Call 6296 3540 or
canberravisioncare.com.au

Flooring and window expertise under one roof

For more than 25 years, Carpet One & CBI Blinds and Awnings have served the Canberra community from their Mitchell showroom.

Owned and operated by Paul Allen and his partner Leonie Gann, their family-run business is backed by a team with more than 100 years of combined industry experience.

“Our experienced team is ready to help with all flooring needs, from carpets and timber to laminates and vinyl planks,” says Leonie.

Under the same roof, CBI Blinds & Awnings offers a selection of internal and external window furnishings, including popular options like Verishades, roller blinds, Honeycomb and vertical blinds, shutters, curtains, Ziptrak blinds, outdoor awnings and external shutters.

Leonie says they’re also Canberra’s trusted specialists in Oztech retractable roof systems.

“We provide free design consultations and on-site measures, allowing us to identify potential issues early in the process,” she says.

“Our in-house magazine also serves as a visual guide to help customers discover the perfect style for their home.

“With tailored package deals available, Carpet One and CBI Blinds & Awnings delivers cost-effective flooring and window treatment solutions, all from one trusted supplier.”

Carpet One and CBI Blinds & Awnings. 141 Flemington Road, Mitchell. Call 6241 5666 or visit carpetone.com.au/mitchell and cbiblinds.com.au

Forum for ACT retirement village residents and family

Established to inform, represent and support residents and prospective residents of ACT retirement villages, ACT Retirement Villages Residents Association (RVRA) secretary Anne Caine says they host a forum each year to carry out this mission.

“This year, on June 25, we have a fantastic line-up of speakers who will bring attendees up to date with the latest RV sector issues nationally and locally,” she says.

Discussing topics such as Australia’s rapidly ageing population and how to address it, the forum will feature an address from Roger Pallant, the vice-president of the NSW RVRA, who will present the results of a survey conducted amongst RV residents nationally.

“We then move from the big picture to what is happening in the ACT retirement village sector,”
says Anne.

The ACT Human Rights Commissioner, Karen Toohey, will talk about assisting residents in resolving disputes with operators and new elder abuse laws.

Followed by a talk from agency head, Louise Bassett, who will talk about the legal regime applicable to RVs in the ACT and the measures in place to protect residents, the day will be concluded with an overview of the new Support at Home Program which will be coming into effect on July 1 by Pinky Khu.

“All in all, we think this will be a very informative forum for both residents and prospective residents (or family members) of ACT retirement villages,” says Anne.

ACT Retirement Villages Residents Association Forum. Belconnen Labor Club, 10.30am-1pm on June 25. Contact enquiries@actrvra.org.au or visit actrvra.org.au

Helping Canberrans increase the value of their house

Sometimes, increasing the value of a house can come down to something as simple as a new paint job.

“Whether you’re looking at downsizing, or just improving your home, paint, floors and styling can make a huge difference in the value of your house,” says Renovations Matters owner Kim Persson.

“Landscaping can also make a big difference,” she says.

“It’s the first thing people see when they pull up to a place, so it’s important that it looks great and enhances the overall appeal.”

With nine years of experience as a business owner and a further 20 years of renovation knowledge, Kim says it’s important that whether her clients are downsizing, improving the look of their place or moving to a new one, using trusted tradespeople can make or break a situation.

“That’s what I do,” she says.

“I source trusted and qualified professionals and tradespeople and have several attend each job with me.

“Having someone like me takes the stress out of organising services and ensuring quality.”

According to Kim, a house is 30 per cent more likely to sell when it has been styled and revamped.

“Most people want to buy something that is ‘move-in ready’,” she says.

“That could even mean updating a kitchen or bathroom to make it more modern.”

Renovation Matters. Call 0427 696662 or visit renovationmatters.com.au

Working together to make retirement work

David Luke Retirement Planning specialises in advising those coming up to, or already in retirement, says director David Luke.

“I can help maximise your Centrelink entitlement, minimise tax exposure, set up income streams and offer investment advice and implementation,” he says.

“I have been a financial planner in Canberra and surrounding regions for 23 years, exclusively advising on retirement,” he says, and has run his own business for the last five years.

David says financial rules are daunting when you look at them for the first time.

“I can lead you through the process of the ATO, Centrelink, and investment markets, to make them work for you and achieve the retirement you want,” he says.

“You don’t need any prior knowledge with the rules or with financial planning, just an idea of what you want to achieve.”

He says he will break down the issues so you understand how it all fits together.

“I have no relationship with any product providers – I am on your side and I’m a one-person operation so you will always deal directly with me,” says David.

“I’m more than happy to visit you at home, after hours or on weekends.

“Don’t let the complexity of the system make you think it’s all too hard. Make it work for you instead.”

David Luke Retirement Planning, Level 1, 33 Allara Street, Canberra City. Call 0404 857242, or visit davidlukeplanning.com.au

Group activities aimed at combating isolation

Ageing can be a lonely process, says Arthritis ACT CEO, Rebecca Davey.

“Not only do some new aches and pains arise, but there can sometimes be a level of distress to changes related to ageing,” she says.

“That’s the really nice thing about coming to group exercise therapy.”

With classes ranging from as little as eight dollars, Rebecca says a lot of the members treat the classes as a way to increase their social networks.

“We are giving them a new community where they don’t have to explain themselves, because they are surrounded by peers who are going through similar things,” she says.

“Many of the people in our class now meet up in the outside world for coffee and lunch. They’re creating friendships.”

With classes only requiring an appointment with an exercise physiologist to ensure participants aren’t pushing themselves, Rebecca says they can get people enrolled within the week.

“Our classes aren’t only for those with a fatiguing condition or a doctor’s referral to access the services,” she says.

“We have a lot of people who come to us for things such as ongoing rehabilitation post-stroke, for exercise to manage diabetes and some come because they know they need support to improve their general health and wellbeing,” she says. “That’s why we exist.”

Arthritis ACT, Pain Support & ME/CFS ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritispainsupportemergeact.org.au

Retirement with the perks of independent living

Recently releasing its final independent living villas, The Grove Ngunnawal has seven three-bedroom villas left to sell.

“The Grove is a vibrant retirement community developed and managed by Keyton and includes a heated pool, a lawn bowls green and a clubhouse,” says senior development manager, Sarah Forbes.

Located just off of Gungahlin Drive, The Grove is a few minutes from the Ngunnawal shops and Casey Market Town.

The villas will be ready to move in by early 2026 and offer modern living conditions with spacious kitchens and stainless steel appliances, private alfresco areas, single-storey living with ample storage and seven-star ratings for energy efficiency.

The precinct also comes with a five-star Green Star Communities rating that showcases the village’s elevated sustainability and liveability benefits with double glazing, solar panels on all villas and connectivity.

The development also includes the refurbished Gold Creek Homestead that will be given new life as a multi-amenity and function space to house art and crafts classes, pilates and resident-hosted events.

“The Grove’s original homestead will merge its colonial character with the contemporary needs of the community,” says Sarah.

“Set to be revitalised as a vibrant multi-use function and event space, the architectural transformation will retain the heart of the original building.”

Forty-five new independent living villas are currently under construction.

The Grove Ngunnawal. 1 Monty Place, Ngunnawal. Call 1800 550550 or visit visitthegrove.com.au

Denture professionals at the cutting edge

Fringe Dentures is a direct-to-the-public denture clinic that makes and fits dentures and mouthguards, and also other services such as repairs, and realigning.

“We’re embracing new technology to make sure we get the best service and quality of work, and a better customer experience,” says owner Terry McHugh.

“We’ve transitioned to digital denture and mouthguard manufacturing, which has revolutionised our processes.

“We were doing high-quality work before, and we’re doing even higher-quality work now because of the new technology that we’re using.”

Terry says that the business has expanded to include another clinic in Hawker, as well as regional centres in Jindabyne, Gundagai and Young.

“We’re still servicing the industry, including many partner dentists,” says Terry.

He says services can be claimed through health funds and they accept DVA cards.

“The most important thing, and the most enjoyable thing, is seeing happy customers walking out with their new dentures,” he says.

“If you’re happy, we’re happy.”

Fringe Dentures, 3/24 Iron Knob Street, Fyshwick. Call 6239 2534 or visit fringedentures.com.au

Mike’s lifts make homes more viable

As people grow older, maintaining independence becomes extremely important, says the owner of Personal Home Lifts Canberra, Mike Bresnik.

“A home lift provides the ability for Canberrans to remain in their houses and compared to the costs of downsizing it is a cost effective option,” he says.

“Real estate agents have told me that, on average, the cost of moving… is $72,000.

“A personal home lift costs between $38,000 and $45,000 (plus building and electrical work) so it really is an affordable option.”

Mike says domestic lifts are gaining popularity as people choose to stay in their home, alongside trusted neighbours and life-long friends, but are no longer able to climb their stairs safely.

“It’s another way to get their independence back and give their family peace of mind,” he says.

A display lift has been installed in Hume. Mike encourages people to see it in action.

“There are two lift sizes to choose from, and the larger one is suitable to fit a standard wheelchair and a carer inside,” he says.

Personal Home Lifts Canberra. Call 6147 5566 or visit personalhomelifts.com.au

Experts at managing the risks of diabetes

More than 300 Australians develop diabetes every day.

It’s a condition caused by too much glucose in the blood due to the pancreas not working effectively.

Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves resulting in long-term health complications including heart, kidney, eye and nerve damage if high glucose levels aren’t managed.

“If diabetes is not managed, the risk of severe complications increases,” says a Diabetes Australia spokesperson.

“We want a future where diabetes can do no harm and we are leading the fight against Australia’s biggest health crisis.”

According to Diabetes Australia, each year, there are more than 27,600 hospital admissions for diabetes-related foot ulcers in Australia with almost two thirds of Australian adults with Type 2 diabetes reporting some form of cardiovascular disease.

In 2022 alone, 10 per cent of all hospitalisations across Australia were linked to diabetes.

“As the peak body for Australians living with all types of diabetes, and those at risk, we offer a range of services,” says a spokesperson.

“These include our free national YOUnited membership program, education and events, diabetes telehealth clinics and free resources like meal plans and recipes.”

Diabetes Australia says the annual financial toll of diabetes is estimated to be $17.6 billion dollars yearly.

Diabetes Australia. 19 Moore Street, Turner. Call 1800 177 055 or visit diabetesaustralia.com.au

Residents at heart of aged-care facility restructure

Recently going through a restructure and new refurbishments, Villaggio Sant’ Antonio’s interim operations manager, Michael Giugni, says their aged-care services and accommodation continues to keep residents at the forefront of their actions.

“Our priority is always on our residents, whether they are in our residential aged-care facility or in our retirement-living homes,” he says.

Now employing an independent living villa (ILV) operations manager and a residential aged-care (RAC) operations manager, Michael says their goal is to ensure that residents in each facility have someone purely looking out for their needs, requirements and wishes.

“We’ve also restructured our board to ensure we have a strong skill mix that caters to the needs of the community,” he says.

“Ultimately, it’s all about giving our residents more choice, flexibility and freedom.

“We want them to be able to decide how they live and will find a way to help them achieve whatever it is that they are after.”

With a prioritised waitlist in place for new residents based on the care needs of the individual, Michael says they are committed to catering to their community.

Villaggio is also on the lookout for new activity volunteers to help with bus driving, art classes, visits etcetera.

Villaggio Sant’ Antonio, 35 Burkitt Street, Page. Call 6255 1794, or visit villaggio.com.au

Dance classes that are good for your health

From a waltz to a samba, Dale’s Ballroom Dancing has been offering dance classes for more than 25 years to the Canberra community.

With more than 30 years of experience behind her, Dale says dancing is for everyone.

“Our adult classes are open to anyone and we are happy to adapt to suit the needs of our audience,” she says.

Currently, Dale offers two levels of expertise in her adult classes on Wednesday nights.

Her beginner classes go from 7.30pm-8.30pm and cover the basics of a variety of dances, her intermediate/advanced class level, from 8.30pm-9.30pm, tackle the harder dance skills to learn.

According to Dale, dancing is a great exercise for seniors to participate in.

“Dancing is 10 times better than doing a crossword puzzle at the table or taking the dog for a walk,” she says.

“It keeps your brain and body active while you think about the steps and move.

Recently moving to the Weston Neighbourhood Hall to host her adult classes, Dale offers seven-week courses, although she says it’s okay to “just turn up!”

Dale’s next seven-week course starts on June 11 for anyone wishing to start from the beginning.

Dale’s Ballroom Dancing, Hilder Street & Gritten Street, Weston. Call 0407 066110 or visit dalesballroomdancing.com

Guardian angels for funeral planning

It’s impossible to know how expensive funerals might be in the future, which is why operations manager for Invocare ACT Cassandra Proctor recommends looking into Guardian Plans.

“Guardian Plans are a unique alternative to funeral plans,” says Cassandra.

“Working across all sub-brands of InvoCare, Guardian Plans provide a locked-in price for funerals.”

Paying a set fee upfront means that five, 10 or more years after purchasing the plan, the client’s family won’t have to cater to inflation.

“Guardian Plans are applicable to any of our InvoCare operations, and can be used interstate” says Cassandra.

“Whatever you pay today is all that you’ll ever pay, regardless of when you need it.”

With an entirely customisable plan, Cassandra says clients can completely organise how they want their funeral to happen, from flowers to the location.

According to Cassandra, clients can even put their preference in for certain priests!

“We want to ensure that your wishes are respected and carried out,” she says.

A trusted funeral provider to the Canberra community for 75 years, Cassandra says, “we want people to know that they are in good hands from start to finish.”

Tobin Brothers Funerals, 101 Nettlefold Street, Belconnen, or 310 Anketell Street, Tuggeranong. Call 6295 2799, or visit tobinscanberrafunerals.com.au

 

Aged-care facilities with the community at heart

Operating in the Bega Valley for more than 45 years, Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care is a community-led, not-for-profit organisation that offers independent living, home care services and residential care.

“Our core purpose is to make life great for people in our care and that is what brings our team of dedicated professionals to work every day,” says CEO, Julie Evans.

“We understand our locals and are committed to ensuring that quality aged-care services remain in our local community.”

The only community service provider to offer the full suite of aged-care services in the Bega Valley community, Julie says they take every opportunity to participate in community events.

“Volunteers and residents came together to make Anzac wreaths, with more than 120 wreaths made and distributed across the local community last month,” she says.

“Our local schools and play groups are also regular visitors in our homes, many of whom are great grandchildren of our care recipients, which serves to strengthen the community and family bonds.”

According to Julie, activities such as these demonstrate the commitment of the local community in supporting aged care services.

Their newest retirement village, The Glen, opened in September and Julie says construction is underway to build The Kennedy village in Bombala, which is due to open mid year.

Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care. ​​105 Upper Street, Bega. Call 6492 7777 or visit sapphirecoastagedcare.org.au