Aged Care and Elder Abuse (International)

By Andrew

The ABC Four Corners program (Australia) ‘Aged Care: At the End of the Line’ highlighted problems that many knew existed long before the broadcast.

The care of the frail and vulnerable in nursing homes, demands urgent attention.

There are other issues that should be highlighted in discussing Elder Care and Elder Abuse.

·         The carer/resident ratio.  Many carers are underpaid and over-worked. How can we expect them to do their best? There were suggestions of a rule in some nursing homes, that a number of tasks must be completed within a set period of time - are those demands on carers fair and appropriate? 

There are many dedicated personal carers or registered nurses in the Aged Care industry who must be recognized. Unfortunately, the ‘horrible scenarios’ in poorly-managed nursing homes grabbed the headlines. Let us look at the big picture, when it comes to fixing the Aged Care System.

·         Family Carers.  They are the ones who made personal sacrifices to look after a loved mum, dad etc. These carers should be given the support – e.g. services that enable these carers to have a break from their charges.

 ·         Awareness program on Elder Abuse and Neglect, not only in nursing homes, but also in the wider community must be in place.

Elder abuse and neglect are violations of human rights. The community must be informed that if they chose to violate the rights of the aged, they will be punished, in some ways. Even a name and shame list of abusers may be warranted.

 Who should see to the stopping and prevention of elder abuse?

Everyone who can do something - Even discussing the matter with neighbors or others in the local community is a help.

Many governments will only give lip service on awareness campaigns of elder abuse.

Once a year, they put out a statement of support in the media e.g. on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, on June 15. That is not good enough.

Elder Abuse Awareness Campaigns would go a long way in saving the government money in the long run. 

It is very discouraging to see that many reports of government funded inquiries ended up in parliament or Congress store rooms; gathering dust. 

Let us hold our own government to account. It is not good enough to call for a Royal Commission or Senate Inquiry; then NOT take up the recommendations that came out of the subsequent reports.

Complaints Investigation Scheme -  If it is flawed, fix it! 

Aged Care Commissioner.  If 50% of the cases reported to the commissioner were proven, why did the other authority discount her findings?

Thanks to the Four Corners program, the public will be looking out for developments regarding the issues highlighted.

Aged Care and Prevention of Elder Abuse and Neglect:

We have a lot more to do.

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