Older Persons information seminars launched

28 May 2007

A new series of information seminars for older persons launches in Christchurch this week.

OASIS (Older Persons Series of Information Seminars) are a City Council initiative designed to provide older people with better access to information about what is happening and available in their community.

The seminars have evolved from the development of the Council’s Ageing Together Policy, under which better access to information is one of the seven key goals, says Council Community Support Manager Catherine McDonald.

"Council staff, Government agencies and community organisations will be at the annual ward-based seminars, providing information on what is available for older people in their community."

Next Thursday’s (31 May) seminar will be at the Beckenham Service Centre, the new initiative being launched by Minister for Senior Citizens Ruth Dyson at 9.30am.

The seminar, from 10am to 12.30pm, will provide information on a cross section of Council operations, from libraries, recreation facilities and programmes to customer services, community development and rates.

Mrs McDonald says Greypower, Nurse Maude, Presbyterian Support Services, Work and Income, Disability Information Service, Hearing Association, Arthritis Society, Christchurch Resettlement Services, Stay on Your Feet, Safe with Age, Positive Ageing Ambassador/Third Age Forum and Royal NZ Foundation for the Blind will also be represented at the seminar.

Information will also be available from Elder Care Canterbury and Canterbury District Health Board – Older Persons Nutrition.

Seminars will be scheduled for August in the Hagley/Ferrymead and Lyttelton/Mt Herbert wards, Burwood/Pegasus in September, Riccarton/Wigram in October and Fendalton/Waimairi in November.

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