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Caring for an older person?

15/4/2015

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Ageing population

The proportion of elderly people in Australia has been increasing steadily in recent years. The 2011 Census identified that Older People (those aged 65 and over) comprised only 8.5% of the population in 1961, yet in 2011 they comprised 14%.

As people age, they are confronted by declining health and increasing disability.  The 2011 Census found that of the 537,00 Older People, 18% were identified as having a profound or severe disability with the number rising with increasing age.

This ageing population, with the increased need for health care and other support is, or will be, an issue that more families will have to deal with.

Care for Older People

Whether the Older Person is living in their own home, living independently in  a retirement village or  being cared for in a nursing home, from time to time there are decisions that need to be made about how they can be cared for.

In dealing with these issues, sometimes family members can't agree on the most appropriate course of action.  When the Older Person is being cared for in a nursing home there may be differing views on the care arrangements between the family and the home administration.  Issues that frequently require a decision include-
  • accommodation
  • medical
  • financial support
  • end of life planning.

What can be done?

1. Share responsibilities. If you find that you are doing all the work caring for the elderly person encourage other people to help you.

2. Older Person's opinion.  Help the Older Person make decisions about their best care.

2. Elder Mediation. Elder mediation refers to mediations where the issues have a particular impact on the Older Person.  It is conducted in a manner that protects the interests and safety of Older Person. Often it includes a diverse group of people, the Older Person, spouses, siblings, other relatives,  health care professionals, other carers, friends and neighbours

Contact the Conflict Resolution Centre for more information about Elder Mediation.


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