Returning favourites combat isolation among older adults
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A major initiative to strengthen community connections for older residents is underway, with the NSW Government announcing a grant of $840,000 as part of its 2025 Connecting Seniors Grant Program. The new funding aims to combat social isolation among seniors through activities that foster inclusion, creativity and cultural celebration.
Building on the program’s success since its launch in 2020, this year’s grant has introduced new categories dedicated to Aboriginal and multicultural communities. The goal is to ensure that seniors from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, benefit from culturally responsive activities such as dance workshops, technology mentorship, group excursions, art and exercise classes.
Related: How to prevent mental health decline in seniors
Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said: “With 28 projects funded in 2025 across the state, there is something for everyone to get involved in. These projects can provide a social lifeline for seniors who often live alone. They help older people stay connected and age well.
“It’s important that we provide as many opportunities as we can for seniors to stay engaged with their communities and even try new experiences.
“Congratulations to the recipients – I’m looking forward to seeing our seniors make excellent use of the programs and activities on offer.”
Returning favourites from 2024—such as water safety classes, Foodies Clubs, and Community Circles—will also offer familiar avenues for seniors to participate and socialise. Activities will be delivered through 28 organisations across NSW and divided into five categories: Aboriginal, Multicultural, Creation, Enhancement or Expansion, and Local Council.
In 2024, a COTA NSW report, Voice of Solitude: Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Older Adults in NSW, revealed that 60 per cent of people over 50 felt lonely, with one quarter experiencing extreme loneliness. The Connecting Seniors Grant Program has proven effective in responding to these issues, supporting the NSW Government’s Ageing Well in NSW: Seniors Strategy 2021-2031 and its commitment to Closing the Gap and the Multicultural NSW Strategic Plan 2021-2025.
Ian Westmoreland from Kintsugi Heroes said: “We are thrilled to receive this grant which will enable us to use the power of storytelling to inspire and provide hope to seniors who may be experiencing life challenges like elder abuse, loneliness and social isolation.
“Focusing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the seniors who share their stories will be invited to speak at community events around the Hornsby LGA area to encourage other seniors to engage and connect.”
Since 2020, more than 120 projects have been funded, with over 30,000 seniors participating across 82 Local Government Areas in NSW.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
