According to the newly released Voice of Older Western Australians report, older Western Australians are displaying resilience and optimism about their futures despite facing age discrimination. Commissioned by Juniper, a not-for-profit aged care provider, and conducted by independent consultancy CoreData WA, the study highlights both the strengths and challenges experienced by residents aged 70 and older.
The report, released to mark Juniper’s 75th anniversary, paints a portrait of a dynamic demographic engaged with family, friends, and the wider community. Many are eager to travel, improve their health, and give back to society. However, their optimism is tempered by concerns about global violence, the welfare of future generations, and the fear of losing independence.
A major concern identified in the report is age discrimination, with two-thirds of older Western Australians reporting experiences of ageism. Issues include being dismissed by healthcare professionals or being treated poorly by customer service staff. One respondent, aged 86, shared an experience of being ignored by doctors who spoke to her children instead of addressing her directly. “They think because you are older, you can’t hear, understand, or remember,” she said.
The study also introduced Juniper’s 2024 Happiness of Older Western Australians Index, which rates happiness at a moderate 67.9 out of 100. Key contributors to happiness include family time (71%), socialising (59%), and exercise (57%). However, older adults often feel undervalued, with some reporting strained family relationships due to unrealistic caregiving expectations.
“This research provides a compelling incentive to challenge ageism and support the health and wellbeing of older Australians.”
Juniper CEO Russell Bricknell
The report was launched alongside Wise: The Voice of Older Western Australians, a photographic exhibition by renowned portrait photographer Steve Wise, celebrating the vibrant lives and stories of older Australians.
Wise: The Voice of Older Western Australians free photographic exhibition is on at Perth
Town Hall from 21 – 27 November.
