Australian Croatian Community Services (ACCS) – a trusted source of care, connection, and advocacy
By Suzana Fantov
Photos: ACCS
As people grow older, maintaining physical health becomes a clear priority — but what often goes overlooked is the importance of emotional and social well-being. For older people, support from social groups isn’t just a pleasant addition to life. Rather, it’s a critical factor in aging with dignity, happiness, and purpose.
Social group support can come in many forms: regular meetups with friends, community clubs, church gatherings, or even digital connections through online platforms. These interactions help combat loneliness — a silent issue that affects millions of older people worldwide. It has been linked to depression, cognitive decline, and increased mortality risk.
Beyond emotional comfort, social engagement keeps older adults mentally stimulated. Group conversations, shared hobbies, and community activities encourage cognitive activity. This helps delay or even prevent the onset of memory-related illnesses like dementia.
Moreover, being part of a social circle offers practical benefits. Group members often share health tips and provide emotional encouragement. They also assist each other in navigating everyday challenges — from using technology to managing healthcare needs.
Communities that foster intergenerational activities also benefit everyone involved. Older people people can share their wisdom and experiences, enriching the lives of younger generations.
In short, social group support empowers older people to lead fuller, healthier, and more meaningful lives. As a society, encouraging these connections is not only compassionate — it’s essential.
ACCS – your need, their service
Australian Croatian Community Services (ACCS) is a vibrant, community-based not-for-profit organisation that plays a vital role within Victoria’s diverse multicultural society. Established to support the Croatian community and beyond, ACCS has grown into a trusted source of care, connection, and advocacy for people of all ages. This is especially true for older people and, in the past, migrants navigating life in a new country. With its deep cultural roots and strong community focus, ACCS continues to enrich the social fabric of Victoria. Their inclusive programs, dedicated services, and commitment to fostering belonging and well-being play a crucial role.
ACCS is committed to working in partnership with you to help you achieve your individual health and wellbeing goals. This partnership aims to keep you connected to your community and enjoy your independence.
Here you can find out more about the services they offer. https://www.accs.asn.au/ourservices/findservice
Latest activities within social supports groups
In the spirit of togetherness and care, social support groups continue to pursue their mission—because good fun is always better in good company! From nature outings and creative workshops to coffee catch-ups and board games, there are activities for everyone. Informative lectures, learning the Croatian language, and computer courses also offer something for everyone to enjoy.
- A beautiful day for another trip, this time to the Yarra Valley. Members of our groups from the western part of the city visited Alowyn Gardens today. After their visit, they had a private presentation and chocolate tasting at the Chocolate and Ice Cream Factory. We rounded off the day with an excellent lunch at the oldest hotel in the valley, the famous Yarra Valley Grand Hotel. It was built way back in 1888 and is included in the national heritage list. – said the organizers of the social support group for the western part of the city.
- Our Casey and Greater Dandenong social support groups visited today the Tesselaar KaBloom flower festival on the slopes of Dandenong Ranges and had a wonderful day outdoors. There was a great acrobatics program, fairies, and beautiful flowers. The group celebrated Adam Hovanjec’s birthday and the retirement of Vladimir Jakopanetz. He had been a former assistant and future member of the group. Good luck guys and all the best to both of you! – they said this about the trip.
Social Support Group St Albans had a productive start to the week by making an Easter table decoration and playing some Bingo!
