A REPORT commissioned by the state government recommends Tasmania have its own Seniors Information Service to provide targeted information for older people.
The Council on the Ageing report into how older people access information also recommends providing ongoing home-based technology maintenance and help for seniors, improving transport options so people can physically access services, and ensuring alternatives to internet-based information are available.
The research found services and programs to promote social interaction are vital. The results from more than 600 participants showed the increasing reliance on online information continued to frustrate people who preferred to access information in person, and was a particular concern in light of poor internet and phone access in many areas. Telstra and Centrelink were among the most difficult services in terms of access.
“Older people are encountering multiple barriers to finding information,” the report says.
“There are difficulties with communication, both written and verbal. There are problems with physical access to, and use of services and activities.”
Tasmania has the highest rate of structural ageing of all Australian states, with 28 per cent of seniors born overseas.
“Access to information and social connectedness through the internet and alternative means is a right all older Tasmanians are entitled to,” the report says.
“Governments and non- government agencies, service providers and businesses need to communicate more efficiently and effectively with our growing and culturally diverse older age groups.”
The report found television and newspapers remained the main information sources for 68 per cent of older people, while the family doctor was the most important resource for 64 per cent.
Only about 12 per cent of people aged 60-64 used websites as their main information source, and this dropped to 6 per cent for those aged 75-84 and 4 per cent for those over 85.
Automated telephone services were another problem, with many saying instructions were confusing and issued too quickly. For those who could get through to an operator, unclear or inaudible speech and heavy accents were difficult. “Often people give up or avoid calling altogether,” the report says.
Telephone contact was also out of the question for some affected by poor mobile coverage.
“In such areas, loss of landlines and the transition to mobile technology will create even more disadvantage to all members of the community, and particularly those in the older age groups who may have greater need for emergency services.”
Transport to physical venues and lengthy queues were among physical access issues.
