50s Lifestyle

Ideal way for older women live a little

PROVIDING over 1,000 women with a means to stay active and connected, the Older Women’s Network (OWN) has been busy offering a range of online programs since lockdown in March and is excited to reintroduce face-to-face courses.

Older Women’s Network NSW Manager Yumi Lee says her team members also advocate to increase housing and economic security for older women.
In the five years between the 2011 and 2016 Census, homelessness among women aged 55 years and older, increased by 31 per cent.
While older women experiencing homelessness is the fastest growing group, it’s hidden from the public eye.
They’re not likely to be ‘sleeping rough’. Older homeless women tend to be living in crisis accommodation, boarding houses, hostels, couch surfing or sleeping in their cars.
“The housing crisis among older women is not being addressed by government policy and our group along with other community, housing and homelessness organisations, want change,” Ms Lee said.
“The Government needs to invest in at least 500,000 social and affordable houses over the next 10 years and the development of a National Housing and Homelessness Strategy.”
Some of the popular online courses offered by OWN in the last few months, include Tai Chi, Meditation, Movie Club, Chair Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Feldenkrais (small exercise movements), New Moves Dance and Writing Group.
“The exercise classes are designed to build strength and flexibility and the other courses are way to learn new skills and meet like-minded others,” Ms Lee added.
“We’ve kept costs really low; it’s just $35 a term and you can do as many courses as you like.”
For more info, go to ownnsw.org.au.