A helping hand for aged care

Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Ken Wyatt says inquiry was critical.

ROYAL COMMISSION: Aged care in Australia will undergo a national inquiry. Picture: Obencem

RIGHT now, someone could be writing a submission that could change Australia's aged care system for the better.

Until at least June, the Australian Government is collecting submissions for the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.

Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Ken Wyatt said the national inquiry was vital to understanding the challenges and opportunities in delivering quality, sustainable aged care.

"The Royal Commission is a crucial step forward in determining the full extent of problems in aged care,” Mr Wyatt said.

Reports of physical and mental abuse will be collated in the investigation in a bid to improve the system and reduce the chances of exploitation of Australia's most vulnerable.

"While the Royal Commission will examine what has happened, it is fundamentally about understanding what needs to be done in the future and how best to deliver care services,” he said.

The Royal Commission follows more than 5000 submissions received from aged care consumers, families, carers, workers, health professionals and providers about the system.

The process provides an opportunity for people to make recommendations and report concerns with the aged care sector.

Submissions can be made via post or online.

Gatton care provider welcomes inquiry

AUSTRALIA'S elderly should be enjoying an abundant life according to Churches of Christ in Queensland Executive Director Services Bryan Mason.

The Amaroo Aged Care Service spokesperson hoped the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety focused on enriching the lives of Australia's elderly.

Mr Mason said while most aged care residents were well looked after any reforms which improve the lives of residents in aged care was positive.

"We believe greater emphasis should be placed on ageing people living a life of meaning,

purpose and connectedness,” Mr Mason said.

"Growing older need not be a period of continuous decline and removal from society but a time of living an abundant life.”

Thousands of submissions are expected to be made as part the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety in a bid to protect Australia's elderly.

Mr Mason said the Gatton aged care provider would support residents, clients, families and staff were supported throughout the process.

The Royal Commission's interim report is to be provided by October 31.