Social Inclusion Week – supporting seniors to stay connected

November 22, 2025

Social Inclusion Week reminds us of the importance of building communities where everyone feels they belong. Yet many older Australians continue to face significant social isolation, often due to shrinking social networks, health challenges, limited mobility, and the complexities of navigating aged care.

Pope Saint John Paul II once described ageing as a privilege, viewing it as an opportunity to reflect on the past, deepen one’s understanding of the Paschal Mystery, and serve as a role model within the Church for all God’s people (US Catholic Conference, 1988). But for many seniors, this stage of life can also bring loneliness. During Social Inclusion Week (22 – 30 November), CatholicCare is highlighting the vital role of community connection in supporting older people to feel valued, respected, and included.

Earlier this year, CatholicCare worked with Ku-ring-gai Chase Catholic Parish to launch the Ku-ring-gai Chase Seniors Ministry, an initiative designed to reduce loneliness, foster fellowship, and provide meaningful learning opportunities for seniors in the area. What grew from that partnership became a place where seniors from the parish and surrounding churches could gather, share stories, learn together, and build friendships.

“The ministry has many benefits,” says Ku-ring-gai Chase Parish’s Seniors Ministry Leader, Mary. “It is educational, it addresses loneliness, and it gives people an opportunity to build friendships and connections.”

The gatherings featured community guest speakers presenting on topics important to seniors’ wellbeing. Sessions on online scams proved especially popular, empowering attendees with simple strategies to stay safe. Legal expert Cecilia Castle from Castle Lawyers also offered practical and accessible guidance on enduring guardianship, powers of attorney, and wills – helpful information often hard to find in clear terms.

Beyond this initiative, CatholicCare continues to support seniors across the Diocese by offering parish-based information sessions on navigating the aged care system. “Accessing aged care is confusing and complex,” says CatholicCare’s Community Engagement Coordinator, Kathy. “I explain how the My Aged Care system works and what support can help seniors stay independent at home. Everyone has a beautiful life story, and it’s a privilege to support them on their ageing journey.”

CatholicCare’s Executive Director, Tim Curran, emphasises the pressing need to address social isolation among older Australians, especially during Social Inclusion Week. “Loneliness is one of the most significant issues facing seniors today, with around one in four people over 75 experiencing social isolation,” Tim says. “We see this as a call to action. By working with parishes and local communities, we’re helping create spaces where seniors can reconnect, find purpose, and know they are not alone.”

As Social Inclusion Week reminds us, inclusion doesn’t happen by accident – it happens when communities intentionally reach out, build relationships, and honour the dignity of every person. CatholicCare remains committed to supporting seniors across the Diocese so they feel connected, cared for, and part of our shared community life.

For more information on how we support seniors, please call 1800 324 924 or email info@catholiccaredbb.org.au.