A smile a day keeps the doctor at bay.
Social isolation and loneliness has been found to increase the risk of premature death by 30 per cent, making it more harmful than smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Chronic loneliness can also increase the risk of diabetes, heart conditions, stroke, depression and dementia in the elderly.
It is for this reason Latrobe City Council developed its ‘Welcoming & Age Friendly’ project, in conjunction with local groups and clubs.
Traralgon Country Women’s Association president Barb Derham was the first to volunteer for the advisory committee.
Though a large part of Barb’s involvement was in assessing buildings to ensure safe access for the elderly she said the simplest things often made all the difference.
“We welcome people at the door and introduce them to everyone in the room and ask what their interests are.”
She said being around like-minded people was essential in breaking down social isolation and establishing friendship networks within the community.
Fellow CWA member Bev Jarvis said seniors need programs that allow them to get out of the house.
“Some are in nursing homes and need to get out and about to change the scenery,” Bev said.
“A lot of people who have partners to look after need respite now and again,” Barb added.
“We finish meetings with a cup of tea and new members are welcome to join us and have a chat… or a large piece of sponge cake.”
Latrobe City Council has developed a training package for other local clubs to embrace the ‘Welcoming & Age Friendly’ brand, with successful clubs awarded a certificate and ‘Welcoming & Age Friendly’ logo to display on their premises.