$20M pledge for dementia respite
Families caring for older Queenslanders who have dementia will be better supported under a future state Labor government with $20 million in grants for respite services following a policy announcement by Opposition Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk.
Ms Palaszczuk says a future Queensland Labor government will provide $20 million in grants over four years to services that provide respite care for older people with dementia.
“The ability to remain at home, in familiar surroundings among loved ones is both of benefit to the person, their family, the government and taxpayers,” Ms Palaszczuk says.
“Through this policy, a future Labor government will allow community organisations to provide long-day social respite services to older Queenslanders.
“Organisations receiving funds will need to demonstrate their ability to deliver programs tailored to the needs of individuals and also be able to offer care beyond the standard work day.
“By doing this, Labor will provide support services for our seniors and treat them with the dignity and respect that they deserve.”
Ms Palaszczuk adds a future Labor government will also support Queensland seniors with a Minister who would focus on seniors’ issues and help address the needs of an ageing population.
One of the Minister’s first tasks will reportedly include creating a 'one stop shop' where older Queenslanders will be able to access information about services essential to seniors.
“The Minister for Seniors will be responsible for ensuring government policies and programs meet the needs of seniors and that they have access to information and other resources to fully inform them of those services,” Ms Palaszczuk says.
“This will help ensure older Queenslanders are given priority and a voice at the Cabinet table,” she adds.
