Last week, we celebrated National Volunteer Week, giving us the opportunity to thank the people who make our community stronger. With almost six million people volunteering in Australia, they play a vital role in our lives, especially in times of need. The global pandemic has had a significant impact upon volunteers, particularly in aged care. … Continued
On Anzac Day we have the opportunity to pay our respect and honour those who served our country during times of conflict. It is a privilege to hear the stories of courage and resilience from people who may now, deservedly, receive aged care and support services. It was pleasing that the government has recognised the … Continued
The final report of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is both encouraging and upsetting for the people who currently work, live or receive aged care services. It is pleasing that the report has a strong focus on delivering care into people’s homes, and this has been acknowledged by government. People want … Continued
After more than two years of thorough investigation, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety delivered its final report to the government on Friday 26 February 2021. It reveals that many older people are not receiving the care that they need and deserve, and that the Australian community expects. Over the past two … Continued
As the Australian government prepares to roll out the COVID-19 vaccine to people living in aged care homes, disability specific accommodation, and to our frontline workers, the inevitable discussion of choice is being raised. It makes perfect sense to want to protect our loved ones from any future risk or harm. The Therapeutic Goods Administration … Continued
The first few months of 2021 will be a testing time for the aged care sector, waiting for the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine. Recent clusters of COVID-19 in the Eastern states have highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant. For the front-line workers in aged care, this means continuing with visitor screening at residential aged … Continued
People have asked me what motivated me to apply for the role of CEO for an aged care provider at a time like this. With a Royal Commission into aged care quality and safety already under way, years of chronic underfunding of the sector and major reform on the horizon, it certainly looked like a … Continued
As we near the end of what has been a year like no other, with the continuing threat of COVID-19, it is good to reflect on the annual traditions that we continue to recognise. In November each year, we honour and acknowledge all those who died or suffered in wars or armed conflicts. This Remembrance … Continued
The final hearing of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety was held on Thursday and Friday last week. More than 10,000 submissions have been received from the public and multiple hearings, workshops, community forums, meetings and roundtables have been held across the country. The Royal Commission has published eight background papers, fourteen … Continued
One of the great joys of working with older people is listening and learning from them when they share the stories of their past. Perhaps not surprisingly, it is not always the significant world events that matter to them the most, rather the personal stories of triumph, survival and resilience. Some share their sporting successes … Continued
Protecting the most frail, vulnerable, older individuals who need specialised and complex care and support in residential care is a major concern for our society, not just aged care providers. As our population ages, the need for these services will continue to grow, and it is imperative that we meet this demand with high-quality care. … Continued
In its latest consultation paper, Financing Aged Care, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has invited submissions about the future financing of the aged care system. It is an important discussion and one that the sector has been waiting for since the Royal Commission commenced. The paper begins with a quote from … Continued
I have great admiration for the people who work in aged care, particularly those with the opportunity to provide direct care and support to those in need. This important work makes a difference to people’s lives every day. Retaining staff in the sector can be difficult, especially when wages do not compare favourably with other … Continued
Hello, my name is Darren Birbeck, and I am proud to begin in the role of Resthaven CEO from today, Monday 1 June. It has been a privilege to work with Resthaven in both a board and an executive capacity over the past four years. There is something special about Resthaven. I am delighted to … Continued
Today, Monday 1 June, we welcome Darren Birbeck to the role of Resthaven Chief Executive Officer. Darren’s appointment follows the retirement of Richard Hearn after 34 years with Resthaven, 27 of those as CEO. Darren holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s in Business Administration, is a Fellow of the Certified Practising Accountants … Continued
Today, I farewell Resthaven after 34 years, 27 of those as CEO. I wish to acknowledge my appreciation of the valued relationships and kindred spirit of the many individuals I have had the good fortune to work with over time. I wish incoming Resthaven CEO, Darren Birbeck, all the best, and trust his experience will … Continued
Thus far, the response to COVID-19 in South Australia has been exceptional in limiting the transmission of the virus. This achievement reflects the hard work of all those working in health and aged care services, the key leadership of state health authorities, who have responsibility for the overarching public health response, and the implementation of … Continued
The 11th of May was the day in 1935 that Resthaven was officially opened by Lady Isabel Kidman, wife of the prominent pastoralist, Sir Sidney Kidman. So it is that this year, Resthaven celebrates 85 years of working together with older people and their carers in South Australia. Richard Hearn Resthaven Over the years, many … Continued
As I recognised ANZAC Day from home this year, I was reminded of the sacrifice of those brave men and women who have served in times of war. Nurses and the medical corps play an important caring role throughout these conflicts. The first ANZACs fought for our country in the first World War. Those who … Continued
Following some recent confusing media announcements by the Prime Minister, other politicians, and the Chief Medical Officer, I write a further update on the COVID-19 pandemic visitor restrictions at Resthaven. At present, the current visitor restrictions have not changed. No visitors are permitted within our residential homes, with the exception of visiting allowed at the … Continued