22 December 2008
The Australian Government today released a report card on the unannounced visits conducted by the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency for the last six months.
The Government is undertaking a record 7,000 visits – including 3,000 unannounced visits -- by the Accreditation Agency to ensure proper care, including nutrition and hydration.
These protections complement the extension of police checks to all nursing home staff - that comes into effect on January 1, 2009.
Last financial year, the Accreditation Agency found 199 nursing homes or hostels which did not comply with at least one of the 44 standards quality outcomes. There are currently 15 nursing homes – out of a total of nearly 3,000 aged care homes around Australia under sanction. Nine of those nursing homes were identified through direct or indirect result of unannounced visits.
“Staff working in our nation’s nursing homes are dedicated, hard working and the backbone of the sector. They are on the front-line providing quality care; these visits support their important work.
“For the past 12 years, the previous government neglected nursing homes and neglected our older Australians; we plan to change that,” Mrs Elliot said.
Anyone with concerns about the care or welfare of residents should immediately contact the Department of Health and Ageing’s Complaints Investigation Scheme – 1 800-550- 552.
For more information, contact Mrs Elliot's office on (02) 6277 7280
Abridged
SOURCE: Minister for Ageing Web site
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Let me echo the Minister's acknowledgement of the wonderful work of dedicated carers. Whilst we should highlight abuses in nursing homes; we must remember that rogue carers are the minority.
It is very pleasing to hear about increased fundings for Aged Care.
However, when will we get some actions on protecting elderly in the general community. Those who are able to stay in their own homes, but are in danger of being abused by family members, paid carers, scammers etc?
OR, Publicity campaigns to inform the populace that elder abuse is NOT acceptable.
Elder Abuse is a criminal offence in America.
Many in the general public are not even familiar with the term 'elder abuse'. One would think that elder abuse does not exist in Australia. I must hasten to add that this seems to be the case in many countries.
Elder Abuse: The 'hot potato' that politicians do not want to acknowledge or handle !
................................. Andrew C
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