The Changing Face of Aged Care in Australia
A huge shift is occurring in the demographics of our country. People are living longer, healthier lives. Between 2015 and 2030, the number of people in the world over 60 years old is expected to grow from just over 900 million to nearly 1.5 billion - a 56% growth.
Residential living no longer means sedentary lifestyle. Rather, it has become synonymous as vigorous exercise and exciting local adventures. The face of aged care in Australia and many other countries around the world is changing dramatically. To meet the demands of the larger and healthier demographic of the older aged population, the systems in place must adapt. If aged care is something you are looking to learn more about for yourself or a family member, read on.
There are Options
When looking for an aged care facility, know there are many options available. If you or your loved one is looking for aged care in NSW, then begin your search knowing there are high quality options that are tailored to suit everyone’s needs and wants. Begin your search online, then begin scheduling tours and interviews to see which company is the best fit. Don’t forget to read the reviews to get an idea of how the whole family rates the aged care experience.
Personal Decisions
One aspect of aged care that people may find surprising is the amount of personal flexibility and adaptability available today. The first choice is whether you want to continue living in your home, or are ready to transfer to an aged care facility. A high quality company will offer solutions for both options, and a transition plan if you want to begin at home with the option of moving to residential care at a later date. Be sure to find a company that will build a transition plan that suits you and your family’s needs. There is no need to compromise the dream you envision for your aged care years.
Medical Specialisations
If you have specific medical needs or conditions, be sure to enquire how often medical services are offered and available. Some companies have a medical staff on site one or two days a week, where others have in-house staff. If you are lucky enough to cruise into old age without chronic disease or pain, this may not pertain to you. However, many of those in the elderly demographic will require specific medical attention and taking this into account when choosing aged care will be important.
Social Outings
Transitioning to an aged care phase of life no longer needs to be viewed as a boring existence. If you still have a lot of pep in your step, then be sure to get information on the social aspect of the aged care facility. Ask specific questions on what is available if you are receiving in-home care and if you are in residential living. The Wednesday night bingo may still be popular at the aged care home, but Thursday may be salsa dancing lessons at the local Mexican restaurant that you don’t want to miss.
As the ageing population grows and grows, the systems that they require will need to follow suit. A larger ageing population means people are working longer, plan to live longer, and may have a more vibrant vision in mind for aged care.
Begin your research knowing there are numerous ways to tailor the experience to perfectly fits your needs and desires. Before you know it you will be off to the races with a group of new friends all happily retired and cruising out the next phase of life in style and adventure.
