31/03/17
“Change can be particularly daunting for older people and further complicated by language or cultural barriers,” she said.
The Federal Government’s first phase of Increasing Choice in Home Care was introduced on February 27. It empowers older people to choose a service provider and direct government subsidies to that provider.
“Our staff are happy to help people who have concerns or may have received letters from the Department of Health and need assistance to understand the changes,” Dr Walia said.
“We can guide them through the process, including accessing the My Aged Care website (www.myagedcare.gov.au/) which is the first step in accessing appropriate home care.”
Dr Walia said that with more than 40 per cent of greater Sydney’s population born overseas, access to culturally sensitive support for our ageing population was essential.
She said that support extended to respite for carers whose role was vital in helping older people to remain at home and in their community.
“I am delighted we have been successful in securing additional funding for our respite services via recent CHSP growth funding round and look forward to confirming the details in the coming weeks.”
Home care services available under the Commonwealth Home Support Program range from assistance with household chores, preparing meals, personal care, respite care and home maintenance to nursing care, allied health and housing.
Multicultural Aged Care Inc is a not for profit organisation providing in-home aged care, respite and disability services. More information and contact details available at multiculturalagedcare.org.au/
Media contact: Dr Rosy Walia (02) 97186199