Published on Tuesday, 22 June 2021 at 12:01:30 PM
Launch of Elders Day program in 2021
Elders Day is a Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (GRAMS) program that was launched last year, to bring together the Elders in the community and deliver a range of free activities to help them stay connected.
Once a month, GRAMS will organise different activities to engage with the Elders in the community, focusing on different health topics and advice. This can include outings, healthy eating cooking classes, trips to the movies or supermarket, arts and crafts and morning teas.
The first Elders Day for 2021 took place on March 31, which included workshops on Elder Abuse and COVID-19 vaccinations.
GRAMS Health Promotions Officer David Batty said the program aims to provide information, tips and resources to support the Elders and older people in the community, especially during this pandemic.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders are identified as a priority group for the COVID-19 vaccination roll out.
Mr Batty is encouraging Elders to get vaccinated so that they are protected from the serious illness.
“First Nations people are particularly vulnerable to falling ill, and this is no different with COVID-19,” said Mr Batty.
“As a COVID-19 vaccination provider, it is our priority to protect those who are most vulnerable in our communities.”
“If you’re 55 years and over and identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, you can book in your COVID-19 vaccination at GRAMS for free.”
A key topic for the program is raising awareness on Elder abuse, including early identification; prevention and intervention; and working with the Elders group to reduce the occurrence of Elder abuse.
Mr Batty said that Elder abuse is a very real issue that needs to be addressed.
“The Elders Day program aims to engage with the Elders to co-design messages on raising awareness around Elder abuse,” said Mr Batty.
“It is a safe space where Elders can feel heard, valued and connected. Get involved and come to our monthly Elders Day program. Together we can stop Elder abuse!”
Call your local GRAMS clinic to book your COVID-19 vaccination today:
Geraldton - 08 9956 6555
Carnarvon - 08 9964 3225
Mt Magnet - 08 9940 3222
If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, or has a question about elder abuse, please call the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 724 679 for a confidential discussion.
Follow the GRAMS Facebook page and check our website to find out when the Elders Day program is happening each month.
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