Despite the much-anticipated new Aged Care Act being in effect for more than 100 days, significant challenges persist for older people on the Support at Home program, as evidenced by the nearly 18,000 cases supported by OPAN’s network members in the last quarter.
A wide range of issues remain unsolved and urgent action is required if Support at Home is to realise its fundamental intent: enabling older people to remain living safely and independently in their homes and communities.
Addressing long wait times; unaffordable prices for essential services; and a lack of cottage respite, are among the main implementation issues that require urgent action from the Albanese Government.
Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) CEO Craig Gear said the longer these issues remain unresolved, the harder and more difficult life becomes for older people.
“Older people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Although Support at Home enshrines these principles through the Statement of Rights, it is abundantly clear that the program is failing to meet community expectations.
“This is consistent with the feedback received from older people and OPAN’s advocates, who have seen a significant rise in enquiries and increased demand for support since the changes took effect. It is also consistent with evidence heard at the CHSP Senate Inquiry.”
Mr Gear highlighted a spate of issues raised by older people and advocates including:
- excessive wait times for assessment and reassessment
- inability for assessors to override algorithmic decision based on clinical judgement
- older people reducing care they need due to increased prices
- financial hardship application process remaining overly complex with long wait times
- older people receiving invoices months later (affecting their ability to manage budget and services)
- cottage respite no longer covered by Support at Home.
OPAN is here to help older people understand their rights and navigate the system. Those who require support can call the Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600 for advice and assistance.
Read the full media release.