Navigating the aged care system is a breeze with the right help

According to the Department of Health who surveyed 3,400 Australians, less than half (43 percent) of those caring for their parents/family members are satisfied with the way the aged care system allows older Australians to access care.

Interestingly, even GPs – who are usually the first port of call for those needing aged care services and their families/carers – believe the system is difficult to navigate, with only 50 percent satisfied with the way the aged care system allows older Australians to access care. 

The complexity of the system has left many Australians confused about what kind of care is available to them/ their loved ones and the best ways to access the most appropriate care. 

“This research tells us very clearly that the current system can make things difficult and confusing for those needing to access aged services,” says Byron Cannon, General Manager of  Linkage Care.

“As demand for aged care services increases with the ageing population, a more simplified approach to accessing aged care services is absolutely imperative.”

Realising that Mum or Dad or another family member needs care can be a heart wrenching experience, says Mr Cannon.

“What we usually see is adult children being thrust into the world of aged care with no prior knowledge of how it all works, what services are actually available and the processes one needs to go through to access them.

“It can be incredibly stressful, confusing and overwhelming. Add to that busy schedules, full-time jobs and their own families to manage and the stress of finding the right care for Mum and Dad can become too much,” Mr Cannon continues.

Easing the burden on older Australians and their families was what inspired Mr Cannon to move into the aged care sector and take on the role of General Manager of Linkage Care.

“I could see people in my own life going through this. We had friends who’d say, ‘I know that Mum’s not coping on her own anymore but I’m not in a position to help her on a daily basis because of work. I don’t know where to start looking for help.’ So, we decided to set up a service that did exactly that – help carers and families have their loved ones formally assessed and recommend the appropriate care for them.”

Mr Cannon adds, “On top of this, we also acknowledged that older Australians’ needs can change quickly and more than once over the course of the ageing journey. That’s why Linkage Care established their lifetime membership service where they partner with families for the long term.

“Linkage Care’s Registered Nurses ensure care needs are adjusted as needs change to ensure the right type of care is provided in the environment older Australians choose to want to live. This ensures they continue to lead a fulfilling life.”

For more information call 1800 016 222 or visit www.linkagecare.com.au