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 people (and especially 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 people involved in regular activities is not only good for the Seniors and others but for the community in general.

Our charity is finding ways to help reduce the social isolation of people (and especially 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 since January we are helping two families on average each working day.

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 and others catching up and chatting or playing games or doing activities of their choice) and our exercise program. We will also be running Seniors Expos in October to recognise Seniors Month, in the Scenic Rim and in Logan.

Our Committee includes; a Senior who will also be volunteering with us, 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 a biscuit, 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 people (especially Seniors) socialising, it is Cuppa PLUS.