Call for support for seniors living in own homes

Older Australians are calling for any new aged care policy announcements to include more measures to support seniors to live in their own homes.

National Seniors chief executive, Michael O’Neill, says it’s only natural that Australians want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.

“Even the best aged care facility is no substitute for the family home you might have lived in for 40 years or more. It also makes sense economically and medically as it’s cheaper and contributes to overall wellbeing.”

National Seniors believes the current situation does not deliver these benefits and is calling on policy makers to recognise the benefits of ageing in place. To be effective, the policy focus should be on long term strategies and programs.

“Any new announcements must deliver first class care direct into the homes of the elderly,” Mr O’Neill said.

“We need to put more money into exploring assistive technologies, particularly in how we can use the power of technology and the Internet to monitor and assist the elderly at home. Even the simplest of low-cost assistive technologies – like grab rails and adaptive switches – can go a long way to helping seniors remain independent in the home.”