Dementia Australia welcomes the release of the exposure draft of the new Aged Care Act.
Maree McCabe AM, CEO Dementia Australia welcomes the commitment by the Albanese Government to move towards a human rights-based approach by putting older people at the centre of the aged care system.
“More than two-thirds (68.1%) of aged care residents have moderate to severe cognitive impairment and 2 in 3 people with dementia live in the community,” Ms McCabe said.
“With this high prevalence, there must be a focus on people living with dementia when it comes to aged care services, both in home care and residential aged care.
“Dementia Australia will be reviewing the draft legislation to ensure it responds to the needs of people living with dementia, their families and carers and is consistent with our submission to the previous consultation earlier this year.”
Key features of the proposed Act include creating a single entry-point to make access to the aged care system easier, introducing strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, strengthening the powers of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and introducing criminal penalties that may apply in situations where service providers breach the law.
“We will share this information with people living with dementia, their families and carers and ensure they are supported to participate in the consultation process,” Ms McCabe said.
“I encourage older people, their families and the community to register for the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) webinar on 9 January 2024, “What’s at Stake?” where the Exposure Draft of the new Aged Care Act will be discussed.”
Register here for the 9 January 2024 webinar, 1:00pm – 2:30pm AEDT.
“Dementia Australia looks forward to working closely with the government to improve the health, care and lifestyle outcomes and experiences for people of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, and their families and carers,” Ms McCabe said.
To find out more, visit www.health.gov.au/aged-care-act-consultation.
Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.5 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
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Media contacts: Gabrielle Prabhu gabrielle.prabhu@dementia.org.au 0447 253 583
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
Note to Editors:
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If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.
