TOMNET

Starting retirement can be an anxious time for some, as our lives change and adapt to an entirely new way lifestyle. For most people it is a positive new chapter in their lives, but for others, the lack of routine, the loss of friends or a partner, growing health concerns and feelings of isolation can encourage concerns about mental health.

Our PHN has provided funding to The Older Mens Network (TOMNET) to make a difference in the lives of older men as they navigate retirement. Our PHN enables TOMNET to improve accessibility across the Darling Downs through providing access to essential support services across the Darling Downs region by organising weekly social gatherings, mentoring and volunteering opportunities.

TOMNET General Manager Louise Adcock works with community services to deliver the program helping older men to rediscover their purpose.

"The vision for the program is that the men build long-term connections within their communities. In an ideal world, they don’t need us for long and can maintain their networks independently,” said Ms Adcock.

“A lot of the men who come to us are very stoic and often don’t recognise that they need support. We start with where men are at with their issues, then get them involved in a peer support network where they build connections and find purpose in volunteering. It’s about improving the health and wellbeing of older men, and helping them remain connected and a valuable part of our community,” said Ms Adcock.

West Moreton Care at the End of Life Collaborative

In November 2021, over 65 health professionals representing a large cohort of West Moreton Health services came together for the annual West Moreton Care at End of Life Collaborative. Established in 2018, the collaborative was implemented to develop and execute a shared action plan that addresses gaps in capacity and capability to provide quality care at the end of life. The collaborative this year discussed current programs in the West Moreton Region, a Voluntary Assisted Dying Panel discussion, Grief and Loss, and Courageous Conversations.

During the collaborative, an updated a framework was developed between health professionals and professional caregivers who provide care at the end of life. The intent of the framework is to provide a guide for individuals and organisations regarding what they need to know as ‘core business’ in their specific role, including medical professionals, nurses, allied health clinicians, Queensland Ambulance Service, paediatric and professional caregivers.