About the program
The Elder Care Support program will recruit and train a skilled workforce.
The workforce will help older First Nations people, their families and carers, to access aged care services across urban, regional and remote Australia to meet their physical and cultural needs.
Services
The Elder Care Support program will provide services that include:
- supporting older First Nations people to understand aged care services, navigate the assessment process and help with choosing a provider
- supporting families, friends and carers to understand how to access aged care services
- advocating for older First Nations people by working with assessors and providers to meet their needs
- supporting older First Nations people while they receive aged care services
- assisting with other types of health needs, such as disability supports.
When the program starts
Phase 1 of the program has begun.
The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) is rolling out the program in phases over 3 years.
Why it is important
First Nations communities experience barriers to accessing aged care. These barriers often prevent First Nations Australians from receiving the care they need.
The Elder Care Support program will provide culturally safe:
- support across the aged care journey
- guidance on aged care services with a focus on the diverse needs of older First Nations people.
This will:
- encourage more older First Nations people to access aged care services
- empower older First Nations people to decide on the care they need and receive.
Who we work with
We have partnered with NACCHO to establish the Elder Care Support program.
NACCHO will roll out the services through its affiliates and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.
Contact
Email the NACCHO Aged Care Programs team for more information about the program at agedcare@naccho.org.au.