Extra help for CALD aged care services
The Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, has announced funding for 77 projects to help older culturally and linguistically diverse people access aged care services.
The $15.6 million over three years is being funded under the Community Partners Program (CPP) which brings together older people and their carers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, connecting them with aged care information and service providers.
The 2006 Census reported that almost a quarter (22%) of Australian residents were born overseas.
Minister Elliot said this program is an important investment in older Australians from non-English speaking backgrounds.
“Older people born overseas or from culturally diverse backgrounds may have more difficulty finding out about their aged care options due to language and cultural barriers.
“Providing information about culturally appropriate care is essential in improving access to care and ensuring their healthy and positive ageing.
“This Community Partners Program helps aged care providers to offer culturally sensitive aged care services, offers training projects, information sessions and the development of resources,” Minister Elliot said.
