book.sorell - Flipbook - Page 24
24 - DECEMBER 2024
Boaters urged to follow rules
Paddlers must remain
vigilant for other craft on
the water.
matters
the paddler’s body, a 360-degree light ensures
visibility to all other watercraft.
Similar to cyclists on the road, paddlers must
remain vigilant for other craft on the water,
especially at night or in reduced visibility.
STORM EASTLEY
MAST Recreational Boating O昀케cer
SUMMER is upon us – and MAST wants the
Tasmanian boating population to enjoy the
state’s waterways but also come home safely.
MAST will broadcast a series of advertisements on television, radio, and social media
platforms throughout the summer.
Once again, MAST is focusing on the
themes that have consistently emerged from
its research over the last 25 years.
This summer, we will concentrate on four
topics – older boaters, paddling, life jackets
and “crossing the line.”
Older people boating alone
In the 23 years, prior to the introduction of
compulsory wearing of life jackets, Tasmania
recorded 146 boating fatalities. Since the mandate in 2001, there have been 63 recreational
boating fatalities.
While the life jacket compliance rate is
around 94 per cent on boats under six metres
in length, there is a concerning increase in the
fatalities among people boating alone.
Of the 18 solo boating fatalities since
2001, most were over 60 years old and in water
temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, where
cold-water immersion effects are signi昀椀cant.
Life jackets
As previously stated, 94 per cent of Tasmanian boaters wear life jackets – which is
world-leading.
However, in昀氀atable jackets require regular
servicing and MAST data shows a very low
rate of servicing. Remember - it’s only a life
jacket if it works.
Many of these incidents occurred mid-week.
Males make up the majority of these fatalities, with 61 men and two women losing their
lives. We want older boaters to be extra careful
on the water – tell someone where you’re going
and, if possible, take a mate.
Paddling safety
Paddling continues to increase in popularity across Tasmania, with kayaks, canoes, and
paddle boards being used on the waterways
day and night.
MAST’s aim is to ensure paddlers remain
safe at all times by planning their trips
and ensuring they have the required safety
equipment.
Mandatory safety equipment includes a life
jacket. A Level 50 or Level 50S life jacket
is required in Smooth and Sheltered Waters,
and a Level 100 is required when paddling in
Coastal Waters.
A tethering device must also be used when
paddling more than 200m offshore. The method
of attachment may vary depending on the type
of craft you are using. More information on
tethering is available on the MAST website.
Paddle craft must have a white strobe or allround light with 360-degree visibility.
These lights must be used when paddling
between sunset and sunrise and at times of
reduced visibility.
Unlike lights worn on the front or back of
Crossing the Line
On land, we are in known territory, but when
we cross the line into the water, we enter the
unknown.
Each time a boater crosses that line, they
need to make the right decisions to return
safely.
When you are the skipper of your boat, you
are responsible.
Is everyone capable of doing the 30-Second
Challenge?
This involves making sure your lifejacket is
on, you can access your 昀氀ares, your EPIRB is
ready to deploy and you can send a Mayday
call all within 30 seconds.
Role reversal as our parents age
SUPPORTING elderly parents
is a meaningful yet sometimes
challenging journey, requiring
a blend of practical support,
emotional care, and understanding.
As parents age, roles may shift,
and children often 昀椀nd themselves
as caregivers.
Here are some considerations for
providing thoughtful, compassionate
support to elderly parents while
balancing their independence and
well-being.
1. Communication and Respect
It’s essential to maintain
open, honest, and respectful
communication. Discuss their
needs, preferences, and concerns
openly. Allowing parents to express
their wishes, particularly regarding
their living arrangements, health
decisions, and lifestyle choices,
helps maintain their dignity.
Respecting their autonomy can
empower them, so involve them in
decision-making whenever possible.
This approach promotes trust and
ensures that they feel valued.
WELLBEING
with Dr Di
2. Understanding Health and
Medical Needs
As people age, their health
needs often become more complex.
Regular check-ups are essential,
so understanding your parents’
medical conditions, medications,
and treatments can help you
advocate for their care. Attend doctor
appointments when you can, so you
can stay informed and help them
manage any medical details that
may be confusing. Knowing how
to access resources like Medicare,
senior healthcare facilities, or inhome nursing can also provide more
options for care.
3. Providing Emotional Support
Aging can sometimes bring
feelings of isolation or loneliness,
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particularly if friends and family
are distant or have passed away.
Engaging your parents socially
is crucial. Encourage them to
stay connected, whether through
community groups, church, or
hobbies that bring them joy.
4. Encouraging Independence
It’s natural to want to help with
every aspect of your parents’ life, but
encouraging them to do what they’re
capable of is equally important.
If they enjoy cooking, encourage
them to continue safely. If they like
gardening or have hobbies, support
them in these activities. Promoting
independence helps keep their spirits
high and can maintain both their
physical and mental health.
5. Financial Planning and
Assistance
Financial planning can be a
sensitive area, but discussing it is
crucial. Knowing their 昀椀nancial
situation can help avoid surprises
later on and ensure that they can
live comfortably. Talk with them
about their plans for long-term
care, budgeting, or managing any
debts. Helping them organise
昀椀nances might include setting up
bill reminders, discussing insurance
coverage, or even meeting with a
昀椀nancial advisor together.
6. Seeking Help and Resources
Caring for aging parents doesn’t
have to fall solely on one person.
There are numerous resources
and organisations dedicated to
supporting seniors and their
families, from meal services to
transportation options to senior
centres. Engaging family members
or hiring part-time help can lighten
the load. For some, eldercare
counsellors or support groups can
also offer insights and emotional
support.
7. Planning for the Future
Planning ahead can reduce
stress in the long run. Discussing
end-of-life wishes, power of
attorney, or healthcare directives
might feel uncomfortable, but
it’s essential for honouring their
wishes. Documenting these details
ensures that, when the time comes,
decisions are based on what they
want, minimising uncertainty for
everyone.
8. Practicing Self-Care
Supporting elderly parents
can be rewarding, but it can also
be emotionally and physically
demanding. It’s important to care
for yourself as well. Set boundaries
and make time for activities
that rejuvenate you, whether it’s
hobbies, exercise, or spending time
with friends. By maintaining your
well-being, you’ll be more resilient
and capable of being there for your
parents in a sustainable way.
Supporting elderly parents
is about balancing respect,
communication, and practicality.
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