As part of the plan,the parish is keen to involve the community in the conversation to identify the needs and expectations of retirees with regard to lifestyle, community and care services.

“Port Macquarie has a seniors population percentage higher than the rest of regional NSW, and we know that by 2026 our community will see a 27 per cent increase in the population post-retirement age,” Bronwyn Chalker, general manager, Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA) said.

“This presents both challenges and opportunities for us, and we are committed to providing a continuum of care and services that meets the needs of older people in our community now and into the future.”

With more than 40 years of services in aged care, St Agnes’ Parish - through its CCA services - has long been at the forefront of services to the Port Macquarie/Hastings community providing residential care, independent living, home care and other services.

“Through CCA there has always been a solid commitment to ensuring that people receive quality care, in a safe and fulfilling environment, and that a person-centred philosophy is central to the provision of services,” Ms Chalker said.

“Respect for the individual is at the core of what we do.

“So, it is vitally important that we connect with people in our community to capture their ideas, opinions and expectations about post retirement living as well as the services and care that ensures people continue to live independent and fulfilling lives.

“We encourage and invite people to have their say on the future of aged care in the Hastings,” she said.

St Agnes’ Parish has engaged an independent local market research agency to conduct a quantitative survey, and invite people aged 50 years and over to participate.

The survey can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Definethefuture and will be open until December 10.

At the end of the survey, participants can choose to enter the draw for one of four $250 VISA card gift vouchers.