This can be due to their age and lack of mobility, the distance from their homes to healthcare facilities, the cost of treatment, and even the disparaging attitudes of some health staff.

Many age-related diseases are treatable with simple interventions or inexpensive drugs. Having a crutch, a hearing aid or pain-relieving medication can make the difference between looking after oneself and having to rely on others.

For example, if an older person grows their own food but finds it difficult to walk, they may no longer be able to get outside to harvest their crops. A walking frame could make all the difference.

Working with local partners, Help the Aged:

• ensures that older people have access to services which suit their basic healthcare needs;
• funds Mobile Medicare Units;
• lobbies for free healthcare for older people;
• advises other agencies on the health needs of older people;
• funds palliative care;
• provides home care; and
• trains healthcare staff.