This Multicultural Health Week, Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) celebrates the invaluable role of older people from multicultural communities as the heart of families and communities, shining a spotlight on healthy ageing.
With the theme “Healthy Ageing: Older people are the heart of the family and community,” this year’s campaign encourages seniors to stay healthy, active, and socially connected.
It also raises awareness of the unique challenges faced by older individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, including language barriers and a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions.
Imelda Provido, an active member of the Filipino community in Western Sydney, embodies this spirit of healthy ageing.
“Healthy and active to me means observing a healthy lifestyle — having healthy eating habits and enough physical activity,” Imelda shares.
“Looking at our culture’s food culture that is not so healthy, I try my best to eat in moderation and avoid unhealthy food choices.
I also engage myself in physical activity, like joining a walking group and fun run.”
Imelda credits community groups, including Filipino social and church organisations, for supporting her physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being.
“Our community has so many social groups,” she says.
“Joining these helps me feel connected and supported.”
While Imelda has not found language to be a barrier in accessing health services, she highlights the financial challenges for seniors in affording non-free services.
“I am still working to afford services like dental and optical,” she explains, hoping for more accessible care.
“Hoping dental and optical services would be free for seniors.”
Sapna Lazarus, a Bilingual Community Educator with WSLHD, also highlights the importance of cultural traditions in maintaining health.
“Being healthy and active means remaining independent in my daily living activities, engaging in regular physical activities, and eating a balanced diet prepared at home,” Sapna says.
I like to maintain social connections through my volunteering activities and my work as a BCE, and participating in activities such as walking and yoga that assist with physical as well as emotional well-being.”
Sapna is involved in volunteering with multicultural organisations such as SEVA International Inc. and Pink Sari Inc., and advocates for increased representation of CALD communities in health research.
“This may lead to better health outcomes for CALD communities,” she notes.
Reflecting on challenges, Sapna acknowledges the language and cultural barriers many face when accessing healthcare.
“In my work with South Asians from a CALD background, I am aware that language barriers, and cultural differences in health beliefs and practices can be confusing when navigating the healthcare system,” she explains.
Sapna suggests that improvements can be made by providing clear, accessible healthcare information in various languages and encouraging healthcare providers to respect traditional health beliefs while explaining modern medical options.
WSLHD urges everyone to support older people from multicultural backgrounds in staying connected and active.
Monika Latanik (pictured at top), Multicultural Health Services Manager, Priority Populations | Integrated & Community Health, WSLHD says small steps like sharing healthy meals, enjoying a walk together, or encouraging regular health check-ups can make a big difference.
“Older people are the heart of our families and communities.
Let’s keep them healthy, active, and valued this Multicultural Health Week and beyond.”
Want more information about healthy ageing? You can find more information on the NSW Health website.