These are our widows aged 65 years and older. They generally represent the partners of veterans of the Second World War, Korean and Vietnam conflicts.
Older Widows are currently the largest group with an even larger sub group of women aged 80 years and over. There are approximately 3,090 older widows (as at March 2026) cared for by Brisbane Legacy – around 91% of the total number of clients we care for.
Some of our older widows/ers have little or no family support leaving them isolated and vulnerable – particularly older widows/ers living in their own home. Many women in this age group fear losing their independence and ability to cope though wish to remain in their home for as long as possible.
The Service Directory provides a listing of commonly used services. You should also check with your local group for additional resources.
Key Issues
Legacy Brisbane has identified the following issues for older widows:
- Grief and Loss
- Loneliness and isolation
- Limited support from family
- Declining ability to cope with household tasks due to declining physical ability
- Declining capacity and lack of Will or Enduring Power of Attorney
- Decreased mobility, especially when no longer driving
- Accessing appropriate in-home care and community supports through My Aged Care [MAC] or Veterans Home Care [VHC].
- Physical mobility and access to allied health, mobility and aids equipment
- Increasing reliance on grand-parents as carers for children with related financial and physical impacts
- Financial burdens, budgeting and trying to make ends meet living off an aged pension
- Dealing with legal matters such as Wills and Enduring Power of Attorney
- Seeking affordable accommodation
- Elder abuse from family members, friends or carers
- Suicide prevention for older people – Anglicare
- Hoarding
How Legacy Helps
Click on the topics for more details.
OVERVIEW OF LEGACY SERVICES FOR OLDER WIDOWS /ERS Statement.
Last Updated on 12 July, 2024 by rcbicgadmin