Older Australians deserve quality aged care
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 need services in the future must be at the forefront of economic and financial planning for Australia, if we are to support people with the high-quality aged care they deserve. This is also reflected in the recently announced Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which will review the key elements required for sustainability and the quality expected by the consumer and public.
A current challenge is access to Home Care Packages for individuals who require support to stay in their own home. This should be a high priority for the Government in consideration of what is important for quality aged care services.
Accessing services as an individual ages is not a decision that many find easy for a variety of reasons. These may include not wishing to acknowledge there is a need, or not having insight to their need, wrestling with notions of staying independent and aspects of privacy, or simply not knowing where to start.
I reaffirm the importance to older people of actively engaging service options to enrich your quality of life; err on the side of accepting support, rather than proudly resisting assistance. A little support can make a big difference to maintaining independence, and with increasing levels of loneliness, it is important to take advantage of the services that are available and engage with the community.
Access to quality aged care services is via MyAgedCare: www.myagedcare.gov.au, phone 1800 200 422. It involves an assessment by qualified, experienced practitioners who advise an individual’s eligibility for services. Ranging from low level services that offer important support at home, to allied health for short periods, or respite for carers, there are also higher level services for nursing and care.
It is always helpful to discuss your current situation with your doctor.
My simple observation is that we are all on a journey, unique to us. Our relationships with family and friends are what is most important, and support that adds quality in life is well worth investigating.
Opinion piece by Richard Hearn,
former Resthaven Chief Executive Officer