There’s too much youth in aged care
Over 6,700 young people are currently in aged care homes across Australia, including close to 1,000 in South Australia. Youth and disability advocates across Australia are highlighting the need for change.
At the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) February 2006, governments announced a commitment to reducing this number with $244 million to be provided over five years to 2011. As a result Melbourne’s first youth care facility opened its doors last week.
Tammy Jennings, Greens Member, welcomed the development, “The announcement of the opening of a youth-focused nursing home in Victoria should be applauded and adopted here in SA. This is an area where the Victorians have got it right and got a lead on us.
“Every day a young person with high care needs is placed in an aged care facility somewhere in Australia. This is not good enough. These homes are inappropriate for young people, but there are too few alternatives.
“Aged care nursing care staff do not necessarily have the skills to care for younger people with acquired brain injuries and specific disabilities, like Parkinson’s disease or Multiple Sclerosis. Additionally, aged care homes may not offer rehabilitation.
“The average age in nursing homes is in the mid-80s and the average time an older person stays there is three years before they pass away. Consequently, placing young people in aged care facilities can lead to significant social isolation.
“Young people should have the choice to live with people of their own age, with access to specialist disability services.
“South Australia must not lag behind in responding to the needs of young people with disabilities. I look forward to hearing similar announcements for South Australia,” she concluded.
