Cath Barbaro

As the peak body representing older people’s interests in the aged care sector, OPAN is committed to strong leadership on reconciliation. Today we publish our Statement of Intent, which sets out the vision for our Reflect RAP, which has been… Read More »Looking to the future of reconciliation

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders often find it hard to access the same level of support as other Australians. ‘There may be barriers like a language barrier, or a cultural barrier,’ says Elsja Dewis, one of 10 specialist advocates… Read More »Respecting the cultural needs of Elders

Maggie Beer has been a passionate voice for better food and nutrition in residential aged care for almost a decade. ‘Of course, there is a long way to go,’ she says. Ahead of our upcoming webinar – Food, glorious food: and… Read More »We’ll show you what’s possible: Maggie Beer

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has welcomed the Federal Government’s $36 billion investment towards aged care reform in the 2023 Budget. “We are pleased to see the continued commitment to a rights-based approach as we build towards a new… Read More »Budget 2023 – Aged care reform

The best way to avoid premature entry into residential aged care, says ADA Australia advocate Nicky Adjei, is to plan ahead. ‘My key piece of advice to older people is: “be prepared”. That includes knowing your rights – and your… Read More »Don’t wait for a crisis

Theresa Flavin will share her own burning sense of urgency with the UN Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OWEGA) in New York this week. ‘I have perhaps another four years living in the community,’ said the advocate and activist, who… Read More »Time is running out, dementia advocate tells UN

Paul Debar has gained six kilos since he moved into residential aged care in November with Bonny, his German shepherd-kelpie cross. ‘I get three meals a day, I can make a coffee whenever I want and it’s good accommodation –… Read More »Best of friends reunited

Ray is one of two local heroes in the April 2023 edition of News for You, our newsletter for people living in aged care homes. Ray was nominated for bringing the joy of country music to fellow residents in Forbes NSW.… Read More »Ray strikes the right chord

Response to the Assistive Technologies and Home Modifications Scheme for in-home aged care paper OPAN strongly supports the government’s plans for a separately funded aids and equipment scheme to enable older people to live safely and independently in their own… Read More »Strong support for home modifications scheme

We want to ensure every older person is able to exercise their rights and participate in voting whether they are living at home or residential aged care homes. OPAN plays a role to ensure the rights and wellbeing of older… Read More »Information for older people to vote in elections