In our panel discussion on the United Nations' Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030) we welcome Craig Gear OAM - CEO of the Older Persons Advocacy Network, Yumi Lee - CEO Older Women’s Network NSW and Lee-Fay Low - Professor in Ageing & Health at the University of Sydney.

Among the many topics addressed, Lee-Fay Low talks about dementia and the battle to get a better deal for the half a million Australians living with the condition. Craig Gear highlights the subtle and pernicious effects of ageism and the enshrining of Human Rights in the Aged Care Act. Yumi Lee outlines some of the many circumstances that can lead to women’s homelessness with more than 400,000 over-45s currently at risk.

Elder abuse issues encompassing psychological, neglect, financial and sexual are also raised in the discussion. Yumi Lee draws attention to the deeply disturbing fact that some 50 people are sexually assaulted in aged care every week.

Although the troubles experienced by our elders are difficult to confront, each panel member makes a difference through their passionate advocacy for seniors’ welfare. They point to incremental improvement and recent legislation as reasons to be optimistic about a better future.

In Nostalgia Town we take a look back at the people Lex & Patricia have spoken to in 2022.

Among an inspiring set of guests, we’ll hear snippets from Jenny Hocking talking about the Whitlam years, Max Ball discussing Vietnam Veterans, Gary Foley and Thomas Mayo on indigenous issues, Craig Gear speaking about aged care, Vivian Wuthrich on mental health and Claudia Baldwin on Climate change. We also hear from celebrity guests Noeline Brown, Lucky Starr, John Williamson, Toni Lamond, Ita Buttrose, Kate McClymont, Kerry O’Brien and Carlotta.

Out Money Extra guest finance expert, Noel Whittaker AM talks about how to maximise the aged pension. He outlines the assets and income test and what is exempt and what’s not. Your home for example is exempt but assets such as caravans and furnishings are not.

We head to Orange in NSW for Steppin’ Out to meet a fascinating lady, Amanda Spalding of radio FM107.5. Amanda is chair and a presenter at the station, a local councillor and board member for Arts Out West.

Amanda talks about the Central West's cultural attractions as well as its thriving wine industry and many sporting events. Her own affiliation with sport included a position as the first female board member of England’s Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club.

Thanks for joining us today!

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