The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has expressed its support of the Federal Government’s expedited schedule to provide 24/7 nursing care within residential aged care facilities.
As people age, there may come a time when living independently is no longer the best option for their health and well-being. In such cases, aged care facilities provide a supportive environment where seniors can receive the necessary assistance and care they need.
In this blog post, we will explore OPAN’s support for accelerated 24/7 nursing in Australian aged care, placing a senior into aged care, and the important role of OPAN in the aged care sector.
24/7 Nursing in Aged Care
In Australia, OPAN plays a significant role in ensuring the rights and well-being of seniors in the aged care industry. OPAN’s campaign for better seniors’ care picked up with its recent approval of new government mandates for round-the-clock residential aged care, which went active on 1 July 2023.
The measure, which was one of the recommendations laid in the Aged Care Royal Commission’s final report, called for at least one dedicated nurse to be on 24/7 duty at an aged-care facility, to address staff shortages at critical situations. A 15 per cent increase for aged-care staff pay was also tagged in the FY24 Federal Budget.
The government is also preparing for care minutes to be raised significantly starting 1 October. However, some rural and regional aged-care facilities claim numerous factors hold them back from implementing the measures.
”24/7 nursing is the key to high quality aged care, including high quality dementia care. Rapid access to the right level of clinical support is crucial. And we know health-related incidents don’t wait until the working day commences – they can happen at any time,” said OPAN CEO Craig Gear.
Placing a Senior into Aged Care
One of the primary reasons for transitioning a senior into aged care is to ensure their health and safety. As seniors age, they may experience declining physical or cognitive abilities, making it challenging for them to carry out daily tasks independently. Aged-care facilities offer a supportive environment with trained staff who can assist with activities of daily living, medication management, and provide round-the-clock care to address any health concerns.
Seniors may also benefit from the social engagement and companionship provided in aged care facilities. Many seniors experience feelings of isolation or loneliness, especially if they live alone or have limited social connections. Aged-care facilities offer opportunities for seniors to interact with their peers through organised activities, communal dining, and shared common areas, promoting socialisation and a sense of belonging.
Complex medical conditions or care needs may require specialised attention that is best provided in an aged-care setting. Aged-care facilities have trained healthcare professionals who can cater to specific medical requirements, such as dementia care, palliative care, or rehabilitation services. These facilities are equipped with the necessary resources and expertise to address the unique needs of seniors with complex health conditions.
The Importance of OPAN in the Aged Care Industry
OPAN’s efforts contribute to creating a more respectful, supportive, and accountable aged care environment for older people in our communities.
Advocacy for Seniors’ Rights
OPAN works towards ensuring that seniors receive high-quality care and are treated with dignity and respect. They collaborate with various stakeholders, including aged care providers, government agencies, and community organisations, to address systemic issues and promote positive changes in the aged care sector.
Information and Support Services
OPAN provides information and support services to seniors and their families, empowering them to make informed decisions about aged care. They offer a national helpline that individuals can call to seek guidance and advice regarding aged care options, rights, and complaints. OPAN’s experienced advocates assist in navigating the complexities of the aged care system, providing personalised support tailored to each individual’s needs.
Resolving Complaints and Concerns
OPAN assists seniors in resolving complaints and concerns related to aged care services. They have a network of advocates across Australia who work closely with individuals and aged care providers to address issues and ensure appropriate resolutions. OPAN’s advocacy services help seniors voice their concerns, provide mediation between parties, and facilitate positive outcomes for all involved.
Aged Care Royal Commission
During the Aged Care Royal Commission, OPAN played an instrumental role in representing the interests of seniors. They have actively contributed to the commission’s investigations, providing valuable insights and recommendations for improving the quality and safety of aged care services. OPAN’s involvement in the royal commission ensures that the voices and experiences of seniors are heard, leading to meaningful changes in the aged care sector.
Placing a senior into aged care is a decision driven by considerations for their health, safety, and overall well-being. Aged care facilities provide the necessary support, specialised care, and social engagement that can enhance a senior’s quality of life.
With OPAN’s assistance, seniors and their families can navigate the aged care system with confidence, ensuring the best possible care and support for their loved ones.
The ASAG Reverse Mortgage
Retirement living often comes with high costs, and finding ways to fund it is a crucial concern for many retirees. One potential avenue to explore is the ASAG Reverse Mortgage, which offers a solution for tapping into the equity of your home without ongoing payments and selling.
Through a reverse mortgage, homeowners can receive regular payments based on the assessed value of their property. It gets paid off upon the sale of the property or the passing of the borrower. The funds can be directed towards fulfilling retirement objectives, including expenses related to Aged Care.
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