Autumn newsletter 2019

Caring for an ageing population

A long-time advocate for a better homelessness system, Nada Nasser recently joined Mission Australia as NSW/Vic/ACT State Director. 

While it may not be at the forefront of our minds today, most of us will reach an age where we need a helping hand with things that used to 
seem routine.

For some of the people we work with, this time comes a lot sooner because of a history of mental health issues, trauma or other life challenges. The services we provide recognise that not everyone has the same means to enjoy the quality of life they deserve in their senior years.

As our population ages, the number of older people experiencing homelessness is growing. According to Census data, the amount of people aged over 55 experiencing homelessness has increased almost 50 per cent in just 10 years.

Thankfully, Mission Australia’s programs intervene early to keep people in their homes and offer support to get others back into housing. We also offer aged care facilities where those unable to live alone can have a decent quality of life.

In this newsletter, you’ll read about the many lives you have changed, including the story of a veteran who spent years being overlooked and taken advantage of, all while dealing with complex needs. 
While the realities concerning our ageing population are difficult, generous supporters like you make our jobs so much easier.

Together, we can help people of all ages stay off the streets and have the dignity they deserve.