WIMMERA aged-care and disability services will receive a boost after sharing in more than $860,000 in state and federal government funding.
WIMMERA aged-care and disability services will receive a boost after sharing in more than $860,000 in state and federal government funding.
Services in Horsham Rural City received $183,600, in Northern Grampians Shire $163,400, in Ararat Rural City $152,500 and in Yarriambiack Shire $132,300 through the Home and Community Care program.
Health and disabilities programs in the Buloke and West Wimmera shires received $130,700 and $55,400 respectively.
Services in Hindmarsh Shire received the least funding with $42,400.
Stawell Neighbourhood House community development worker Gina Stephens said the money would help fund the house's activities for disabled people.
She said the Home and Community Care program also ensured the Wimmera's ageing population was kept active.
"Our population is getting older and there is a need for people to have things to do to keep them active," she said.
"Some people do not see others or have contact with other people at home so the program gives them a social outing.
"They look after themselves to come out and take pride in themselves so they are not just sitting around."
Hindmarsh Shire Council chief executive Dean Miller said home care services were vital in rural areas without public transport.
"We are a fair distance from Horsham and the oldies can't just jump in their car and get the services they need in five minutes so our older people are particularly vulnerable," he said.
"The idea is to keep people in their homes longer because they live happier, longer lives and it is more cost-effective to governments if people can get services in their own home."
Victorian Minister for Ageing David Davis said the funding boost would result in about 11,650 hours of care across the Wimmera this year.
"Home and Community Care services provide the practical assistance that many older Victorians and younger people with disabilities need to complete everyday tasks and retain their independence," he said.
"This year Home and Community Care services will assist about 295,000 Victorians who need help at home, help to shower and dress, nursing, allied health such as physiotherapy and podiatry, delivered meals and social support."
