Humans are social creatures and unfortunately due to things like lack of transport, hearing or sight issues, Dementia, less friends as we get older, and fear of illness, there are many Seniors in our community who do not socialise very much, this also impacts many others in the community.

It is well researched and recognised that this lack of social interaction has significant negative effects on the health of Seniors and others. This increases their need to be seeing health professionals, which then has a significant impact on our health system.

So, getting Seniors involved in regular activities is not only good for the Seniors and others but for the community in general.

Rachelle and Julie have started a charity to find ways to help reduce the social isolation of Seniors in the council areas of Logan, and the Scenic Rim.

As a start in helping the community we have commenced our Emergency Relief Program and in the first six weeks alone we were able to help 80 people and their families with food and fuel vouchers.

We are going to be helping to reduce social isolation through a variety of programs, including; Staying Connected (our program calling those at home not getting out much), Granny M (our intergenerational program), Health Connections (our program to help connect Seniors and others in the community with health providers), Mega Minds and Cuppa and a Chat (weekly programs with Seniors catching up and chatting or playing games or doing activities of their choice) and our exercise program. We will also be running four Seniors Expos in October to recognise Seniors Month, there will be two in the Scenic Rim and two in Logan.

Our Committee includes; a Senior who will also be volunteering with us, a representative of the providers we work with, a former Aged Care Team Leader, and Leader in the area of social isolation reduction.

Our membership is increasing and includes Seniors from across South East Queensland.

Every activity includes a cuppa, and usually a biscuit as well, and usually some useful information about aged care, government services and providers in their areas.

So, it is not just about the Cuppa and getting Seniors socialising, it is Cuppa PLUS.