Proudly working as I do in aged care, and knowing how important such services are to people when they are needed, I am dismayed by the palpable lack of interest in aged care in the recent Federal election campaign. On one hand, there was bipartisan support for the Quality and Safety Royal Commission, whilst on … Continued
Ahead of the Federal Election on 18 May, I wrote to ask all candidates in our regions not to wait until the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is completed to take action on the changes required in aged care. It seems extraordinary that as of the time of writing, neither the Coalition or ALP … Continued
This Easter is an ideal time to pause, rest and reflect. In our diverse society, Easter has particular significance for Christians. On 25 April, we commemorate ANZAC Day, another time of great significance when we recognise and respect our veterans for their service and sacrifice. We remember the contributions they have made in building our … Continued
Aged care is attracting far more news and headlines than we are accustomed to. There is a mix of topics related to how the aged care system can be accessed, improved and some specific stories of very challenging failures of care experienced by some individuals. Good care and services should be expected and available to … Continued
The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety currently underway offers a unique opportunity to give national focus to the future of Australia’s aged care system that is consistent with community expectations and the resources required to meet these. I welcome this focus on quality and safety and the opportunity to consider how any … Continued
At this time of year, we look forward to catching up with family and friends, to enjoy sharing time and hospitality. However, the festive season can also bring mixed feelings. For people living in poverty, it may be a very difficult time. Poverty is a root cause of homelessness: having a lower income than necessary … Continued
The Australian aged care system continues an ongoing reform process. The aim is to simplify access to services and increase choice and control for individuals. It is imperative that Australia continues to plan for the future needs of all its citizens as the population ages. The substantial growth in the number of people who will … Continued
National Carers Week was an opportunity to raise community awareness about the diversity of carers and their caring roles. Anyone can become a carer, so it is of immense importance that we recognise their valuable role, and how respite supports their wellbeing. Carers Australia (www.carersweek.com.au) acknowledges carers make an enormous contribution to our community and … Continued
On 16 September, the Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, announced the Australian Government’s decision to establish a Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, and it will be based in Adelaide. The terms of reference for the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety have been released, with the announcement that … Continued
Since 2013, there has been continuous aged care reforms. Recently, there has been a plethora of aged care reviews, the majority having bi-partisan support within Federal Parliament. Each has dealt with important, complex matters. Now the Prime Minister has announced a Royal Commission into Aged Care, my hope is that it will contribute positively to … Continued
In Australia, around 425,420 people live with dementia, and an estimated 299,850 people are involved in caring for them. Yet there is a general community fear and misunderstanding of what dementia is. Few people realise that there are more than 100 types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease the most common form. Everyone’s experience is a … Continued
The ageing of the population is rarely discussed in the context of being a golden opportunity for long term career opportunities in response to increasing community needs. Employment growth is forecast to grow at a rate of 20 per cent in the next five years. We all share a responsibility to positively encourage people to … Continued
UnitingCare Australia is the largest network of service providers in the nation, and the major provider of rural and remote services. As Chairman of the UnitingCare National Aged Care Network, I recently visited Kununurra, in Australia’s far north-west, with the network, to reaffirm the importance of services in such locations, and celebrate the opening of … Continued
We are reminded to consider planning ahead now, to make it easier in the future. It is important to adequately plan for your financial needs in your older years. Whilst the government provides support to those with very limited means, the reality is that each person is expected to make a personal contribution to the … Continued
Resthaven former Chief Executive Officer, Richard Hearn, discusses why he has a flu vaccination each year. Recently, the Minister for Ageing, Ken Wyatt AM MP announced that all aged care providers must offer an influenza immunisation program to their staff from now on. Resthaven has operated a free Flu Vaccination Program for the workforce for … Continued
As we approach Anzac Day, it is proper and timely to acknowledge our respect and recognition of the significant sacrifices and contributions that veterans and their families have made to our way of life and communities. When they have a need, support should be available when and where it is needed. The Department of Veterans’ … Continued
With a new state government now in power, many people are interested in their policies and strategies to support older people. Outcomes that assist individuals to maintain active and healthy lifestyles not only benefit the individual and their carers, but also the wider community. Although aged care services generally fall under federal government policy, there … Continued
It seems nearly every day that we are reminded Australia’s population is ageing. The post-World War II baby boomers, born in the late 1940s and 50s, are now approaching or in their retirement years. And what tremendous contributions they have and continue to make to our community and their families! Most people don’t want to … Continued
Opinion piece by Richard Hearn, former CEO Resthaven Incorporated, for Boomer section, The Advertiser, 22 January 2018 This new year, it’s time to call for a fair go for those older Australians on the Home Care wait list who are not receiving services. Important changes are required to the Australian aged care system to support … Continued
Opinion piece by Richard Hearn, former CEO Resthaven Incorporated As December heralds the festive season and a time of reflection on the past year, I think about the important, good work of those working in aged care services. Those people are carers, medical practitioners and health workers, who continue to support individuals with their particular … Continued