DROPBOX LINK TO IMAGES & DELOITTE REPORT HERE
CONTINENCE FOUNDATION OF AUSTRALIA FINDS $5.6 BILLION IN PRODUCTIVITY LOSS TO THE ECONOMY FOR INFORMAL CARERS OF THOSE LIVING WITH INCONTINENCE
A recent report by Deloitte compiled for the Continence Foundation of Australia, sheds light on the significant economic and personal toll that caring for individuals with incontinence is placing on Australia's informal carers. In recognition of National Carers Week, the findings highlight not only the emotional and physical demands of caregiving but also the financial strain it places on both carers and the broader economy.
According to the Deloitte report, the productivity loss for those experiencing incontinence is estimated at $53.9 billion in 2023. Of particular concern is the impact on informal carers—family members, friends, or neighbours who provide essential, unpaid care for loved ones with incontinence. The productivity loss attributed to these carers alone is estimated at $5.6 billion, accounting for 10.3% of the overall economic burden.
Key Findings from the Deloitte Report included:
Informal Care: Nearly one in four people (24%) experiencing incontinence require support from an informal carer, predominantly a spouse or family member. This unpaid care is vital, yet it often goes unrecognised in discussions about healthcare and support systems.
Economic Impact: Informal carers, frequently forgoing paid employment or reduce their working hours, face significant financial challenges. The cost of carers leaving or reducing their participation in the workforce was calculated at $5.6 billion in 2023. This figure represents lost wages and reduced economic productivity, as carers sacrifice their own employment to support loved ones.
Hours of Informal Carers: On average, informal carers spend more than 5 hours per week providing care. Caring for someone with incontinence often involves tasks ranging from light mobility assistance to the toilet to full hygiene care, such as changing pads, clothing, and bed linen.
The findings of the Deloitte report underscore the need for increased awareness and policies that address both the economic and personal challenges faced by carers. National Carers Week is a crucial opportunity to acknowledge the critical role that informal carers play in supporting Australians with incontinence, and to call for better recognition and support systems.
Gian Sberna, CEO, Continence Foundation of Australia said: ‘Many Australians don’t realise the full scope of what informal carers contribute to society, particularly those caring for people with incontinence.
‘These carers are often juggling their own health and financial wellbeing while providing crucial care for others, and it’s time we shine a light on the support they need. As we mark National Carers Week, we urge policymakers, businesses, and communities to come together and explore solutions to reduce the financial strain on informal carers, whether through increased access to paid respite care, workplace flexibility, or financial support for those who have had to step back from their careers.’
For media enquiries, please contact:
Progressive PR and Communications
03 9696 6417
Stefanie Douch / Jodie Artis
stefanie@progressivepr.com.au / jodie@progressivepr.com.au
0409 333 324 / 0414 699 186
About National Carers Week:
National Carers Week (October 13–19, 2024) is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and raise awareness about the extraordinary contribution of Australia’s 2.65 million unpaid carers.
About the Continence Foundation of Australia
The Continence Foundation of Australia is a not-for-profit organisation and the national peak body promoting bladder and bowel control health, incontinence prevention, management, education, awareness, information and advocacy.
The Continence Foundation of Australia provides information, support and resources for individuals, carers and professionals.
About us:
For media enquiries, please contact:
Progressive PR and Communications
03 9696 6417
Stefanie Douch / Jodie Artis
stefanie@progressivepr.com.au / jodie@progressivepr.com.au
