Last night, a panel of aged care experts came together in South Perth with guests of the Knights of the Southern Cross WA to discuss when to start planning for aged care, what to consider, and where to find support.
The session, hosted in partnership with the Knights of the Southern Cross WA, was an opportunity for the attendees to ask questions, bust common myths and better understand the services available. A clear message emerged: planning early can help people make informed decisions and reduce the pressure on families during times of crisis.
“Navigating aged care can be overwhelming,” Sandra said.
With a background as a Registered Nurse, and leadership experience across health and aged care, Sandra, Chief Operating Officer – Clinical and Residential at Southern Cross Care, now leads operations across residential aged care, mental health, and disability service.
Drawing on her experience, she highlighted the value of understanding a person’s preferences, well before support is needed.
“Knowing someone’s preferences as they age can reduce the burden on families during an unexpected crisis such as a hospital visit,” said Sandra.
Understanding aged care options
The panel, featuring Laura Christmass, General Manager of Residential Operations and Holly-Louise Reid, General Manager of Home Care, explored the different types of services, including services delivered in the home, respite and residential aged care.
The discussion also addressed the difference between retirement living and residential aged care, including how residential aged care can support safety, wellbeing and changing care needs.
With a range of government funding support options, potential waitlists and many services to navigate, the experts encouraged attendees to research their options early when navigating aged care.
They highlighted My Aged Care as an important first point of contact for information about aged care assessments, services and available support.
The panel also encourage people to consider important legal and health documents while they are able to make clear decisions about their future, including an Enduring Power of Attorney and Advance Health Directive.
Key topics discussed
The navigating aged care panel covered a range of issues relevant to older people, families and carers, including:
- Western Australia’s rapidly ageing population
- My Aged Care as the first resource to start the process
- Different types of support including at home, respite and residential aged care
- The difference between retirement living and residential aged care
- How residential aged care can improve a person’s safety and wellbeing
- The different types of government funding
- Support for carers and how to access respite
The questions raised throughout demonstrated the importance of having conversations early and understanding the options available.
The panel emphasised that the best decisions are often made when people have the time to research their choices, document their preferences and talk openly with family and loved ones, rather than making decisions during a crisis.
Navigating aged care? Support is available
While navigating aged care can feel complex, the panel reassured attendees that support is available and people do not have to follow the process alone.
“The Australian Government’s My Aged Care website, and Southern Cross Care WA’s new navigation service, means you can get the help you need early on and decide next steps.” Holly-Louise Reid said, GM of Home Care.
