According to the newly released Voice of Older Western Australians report, older Western Australians are displaying resilience and optimism about their futures despite facing age discrimination. Commissioned by Juniper, a not-for-profit aged care provider, and conducted by independent consultancy CoreData WA, the study highlights both the strengths and challenges experienced by residents aged 70 and older.

The report, released to mark Juniper’s 75th anniversary, paints a portrait of a dynamic demographic engaged with family, friends, and the wider community. Many are eager to travel, improve their health, and give back to society. However, their optimism is tempered by concerns about global violence, the welfare of future generations, and the fear of losing independence.

A major concern identified in the report is age discrimination, with two-thirds of older Western Australians reporting experiences of ageism. Issues include being dismissed by healthcare professionals or being treated poorly by customer service staff. One respondent, aged 86, shared an experience of being ignored by doctors who spoke to her children instead of addressing her directly. “They think because you are older, you can’t hear, understand, or remember,” she said.