Aged care funds to help boost independence

THE Federal Government is injecting $5.3 million into Cowper to keep older people out of aged care and help them stay at home longer.

THE Federal Government is injecting $5.3 million into Cowper to keep older people out of aged care and help them stay at home longer.

The funding will help pay for services including cleaning, meals, nursing care and transport in an effort to keep them independent longer.

Cowper MP and Assistant Employment Minister Luke Hartsuyker announced the funding as part of $240 million being spent nationally.

"This extra funding will help expand existing services or create new ones in identified priority areas of need across the electorate," Mr Hartsuyker said.

"The Coalition understands there is a real need for domestic assistance, social support, and transport, and that's where the majority of funding will go.

"These services are essential to older people staying safe and well, and remaining connected to their community and in control of their own lives."

The money will be distributed among service providers that work around the Coffs Coast including the Australian Red Cross ($249,300), Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service ($180,000), Mid North Coast Community Care Options ($808,845), Nambucca Valley Community Services Council ($211,229), Parkside Care ($1,603,950), Transport for NSW ($2,038, 518) and Volunteering Coffs Harbour ($123,832).

"The Australian Government believes older Australians should have the support and care they need to continue to live at home as long as they choose," Mr Hartsuyker said.