Kathryn Browne-Yung1, Diana O'Neil1,2, Ruth Walker3, Megan Corlis2, Alison Smyth, Peter Putsey, Kate E Laver1, Elizabeth Fernandez4, Monica Cations1,5,6. 1. College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia. 2. Helping Hand Aged Care, North Adelaide, SA, Australia. 3. College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia. 4. School of Social Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia. 5. College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia. 6. Registry of Senior Australians, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Little is known about how prepared the aged care system is to meet the specific needs of Care Leavers and Forgotten Australians. We explored service provider and advocate perspectives about the barriers and facilitators for appropriate and safe care for this group. METHODS: Three focus groups with sixteen professional stakeholders examined the ways aged care support is accessible and inaccessible for Forgotten Australians. RESULTS: Participants noted structural and organisational features that act as barriers to best practice aged care. It was perceived that funding models and processes provide insufficient opportunity to develop trust with professionals and access tailored care. Once engaged with aged care services, the sector lacks the psychological literacy required to tailor care to manage the complex needs and preferences of Forgotten Australians. CONCLUSIONS: Systemic and organisational change that promotes increased flexibility, trauma-informed care and non-residential housing options will improve the safety and accessibility of aged care for Forgotten Australians.
OBJECTIVES: Little is known about how prepared the aged care system is to meet the specific needs of Care Leavers and Forgotten Australians. We explored service provider and advocate perspectives about the barriers and facilitators for appropriate and safe care for this group. METHODS: Three focus groups with sixteen professional stakeholders examined the ways aged care support is accessible and inaccessible for Forgotten Australians. RESULTS: Participants noted structural and organisational features that act as barriers to best practice aged care. It was perceived that funding models and processes provide insufficient opportunity to develop trust with professionals and access tailored care. Once engaged with aged care services, the sector lacks the psychological literacy required to tailor care to manage the complex needs and preferences of Forgotten Australians. CONCLUSIONS: Systemic and organisational change that promotes increased flexibility, trauma-informed care and non-residential housing options will improve the safety and accessibility of aged care for Forgotten Australians.