Aged Care Crisis
for consumers, by consumers
Last night ABC’s Lateline discussed the case of 63-year-old John Burns, who died within 12 days of going into residential aged care. Burns was put into care after he started to display disinhibited sexual behaviour, and was prescribed anti-psychotics soon after.
Source: The Global Mail, Joel Tozer, Sharona Coutts, February 23, 2012
An email exchange started with a questionable joke, but it led to concerns over the independence of some aged-care advocates.
The government admits aged-care costs have ballooned by nearly $2 billion, but has kept quiet on the real reasons why — and there is evidence that some nursing-home operators are ripping off the system.
Lynda Saltarelli is fighting for the human rights of older Australians in nursing homes. Her account, backed up by studies, shows that most families are ill-equipped when it comes to aged-care issues and mistreatment can easily occur - and regrettably often happens. Saltarelli outlines specific reforms that should be embraced in Australia. She argues that vulnerable older persons often lack capacity to act in their own best interest. Therefore, she says governments must erect 'solid perimeters' around the nursing care system.
Review of the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme - Assoc Prof Merrilyn Walton, October 2009
This was a very thorough review that found that, in spite of good intentions, the complaints system (CIS) run by the Department of Health and Ageing did not operate effectively. Professor Walton went to the heart of the matter and made many criticisms. Essentially the department was trapped in regulations and obsessed with natural justice rather that resolution for the distressed resident and family.
Plenary Session 2: Generic systems—diverse communities
Rhonda Parker, Aged Care Complaints Commissioner
24 September 2009
Thank you for the invitation to be present with you and for the opportunity to speak on the challenge diverse communities present for generic systems.
