FAQs

• Common reasons people see us
  • Anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed
  • Grief, loss, or major life changes
  • Low mood or feeling disconnected
  • Memory or thinking difficulties
  • Carer fatigue or changing family roles
  • Loneliness or loss of confidence
  • Managing chronic health conditions
  • Optimising nutrition to support overall health
  • Maintaining or improving strength and mobility
• Who is eligible to participate?

  Our services are designed for older people who are living independently in the community and would benefit from support to maintain their health, wellbeing and independence.

  Services may be suitable for people who:

  • Are aged 65 years and over (or 50 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
  • Are experiencing changes in memory or thinking, including mild cognitive impairment, dementia or other neurological conditions
  • Would like to improve their strength, balance or confidence
  • Are managing one or more chronic health conditions
  • Feel socially isolated or would like to connect with others
  • Want to learn more about healthy ageing and local support services

  Family members and carers are also encouraged to participate in selected components of the program.

  Please note 

  Our clinicians provide appointment-based services to support older adults' health, wellbeing, and independence. We are not an emergency, urgent care, or acute medical service and are unable to provide immediate assistance. If urgent support is required, please contact your GP, emergency services, or the nearest hospital.

• Where are the services provided?

  Group programs are delivered at our Harbison Health hub located at 422 Bong Bong Street, Bowral, and is a safe, welcoming and accessible environment.

  Some individual appointments may also be available at the Harbison Health hub, in participants' homes or other community locations where appropriate.

• Do I need a diagnosis of dementia?

  No. Harbison specialises in supporting people living with dementia, and our staff have extensive training and experience in dementia care. While some of our services have been designed to support people living with mild to moderate dementia, we also welcome older adults who are concerned about their brain health or who want to take a proactive approach to maintaining their cognitive, physical and social wellbeing. Supporting healthy brain ageing and early intervention is an important part of helping people remain independent for longer.

• Are Telehealth services provided?

  Yes. Selected individual services, including some allied health and education sessions, may be available via Telehealth where clinically appropriate. Telehealth can be particularly helpful for people who have difficulty travelling or prefer to receive support from home. Some education sessions may also be available online from the comfort of your own home.

• How much do the services cost?

  Some group-based services and education sessions may be provided free of charge to eligible clients. 

  For other services, fees will depend on your eligibility and funding arrangements. Some participants may be able to access funding through government programs such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Support at Home, Medicare or private health insurance for eligible services.

  Please contact our team to discuss your individual circumstances.

• What do the services involve?

  The program combines evidence-based activities that support healthy ageing, including:

  • Brain health and cognitive stimulation activities
  • Physiotherapist-designed exercise
  • Healthy ageing education
  • Falls prevention
  • Mental health and wellbeing
  • Nutrition and wellnessbeing information
  • Social connection and peer support
  • Information about local health and community services
• Do I need a referral?

  Referrals are welcome from:

  • General Practitioners
  • Specialists
  • Allied health professionals
  • My Aged Care providers
  • Community organisations

  Individuals and family members are also welcome to contact Harbison directly to discuss whether the program is suitable.

• Can I participate if I already receive aged care services?

  Yes. Many participants access our programs alongside other supports, such as Home Care Packages, community nursing services or other aged care programs. We can discuss how our services may complement your existing supports.

• Will I be assessed before I start?

  Yes. Before commencing the program, participants will complete an initial assessment to ensure the program is appropriate and to help us tailor activities to their individual goals, abilities and support needs.

• What if I have mobility issues or use a walking aid?

  Our programs are designed to be inclusive and can often be modified to suit different levels of mobility and physical ability.

  Please let us know about any mobility, health or accessibility requirements when registering so we can support your participation.

• Are the facilities accessible?

  Yes. Harbison Health aims to provide a welcoming and accessible environment for older adults, including people who use mobility aids. There is also convenient parking on-site.

  If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact our team prior to attending.

• Is transport available?

  Some participants may be eligible to access community transport services. Our team can discuss available options and provide information about local transport supports that may assist you to attend appointments or group activities.

• What should I bring to my appointment or group session?

  We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and enclosed footwear suitable for movement-based activities.

  If relevant, please bring:

  • Glasses
  • Hearing aids
  • Walking aids
  • A current medication list
  • Any referral or healthcare documentation
• Can my partner, family member or carer attend?

  Yes. We recognise the important role that carers and family members play in supporting healthy ageing. Selected education sessions and activities are designed specifically to include carers, providing practical information, support and opportunities to connect with others in similar situations.

• What if English is not my first language?

  Please let us know if you require language support or an interpreter. We will do our best to support your participation and help you access services in a way that meets your needs.

• How is my personal information managed?

  Harbison is committed to protecting your privacy and handling personal information in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.

  Information collected during registration, assessment and service delivery is used only for purposes related to your care and participation in our programs. For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy or contact our team.