Older Australians are facing notable delays in accessing crucial aged care assessments, leaving vulnerable individuals without the support they need, as changes to the system come into effect. Families are voicing concerns that the lengthy wait times and complex bureaucracy are exacerbating hardship, particularly for those without dedicated support networks.
The delays come as new rules begin in November requiring older australians entering the aged care system to pay for “non-clinical” services like showers and medication assistance. Eloise Randall, whose father recently passed away after navigating the aged care system, fears for others. “I really despair for the number of vulnerable elderly Australians in this country who have no access to support or someone coming in to check on them,” she said. ”It’s probably too hard to sit on the phone and navigate the bureaucracy that is the system.”
Randall recounted her father’s experience, stating, “Dad’s final wish was to speak again. I think this process shows we had to speak for him,and we still got nowhere.”
The issue was highlighted in a recent 7.30 report, which can be viewed on ABC iview and ABC TV.