Providing Better Care For The Elderly In Australia

By Bruce Jopples


The elderly in Australia need better care. Once the age of sixty five has been reached, the likelihood of being able to live out a full and satisfying life has become increasingly difficult. Even when one's health is not an issue, the impossible system has set up the aging to be an offset of society.

The government allowance for elderly care is remarkably low. With cost of living increases and the rising cost of medical care the aging population can often not even afford medication. This segment of the people is in grave danger, and many simply turn a blind eye to the problem.

Financial or health issues force many into low income nursing homes. These institutions are not well equipped with staff that can handle the stress and the difficulties they face. Abuse and neglect run rampant. It is understandable that the elderly do not feel they can report the abuse and neglect they suffer as this puts them at odds with the people who have power over them.

The rights of the aging needs to be considered a priority. The entire system needs to be reformed. Since the ability to afford an independent life is becoming harder, you are likely to find hospital beds taken up during a long period of time. There are waiting lists that prevent the immediate transfer.

There are many individuals who are able to function on their own but are not financially capable of doing so. Once personal freedom is turned over to the nursing homes, depression and neglect exacerbate any existing illnesses. Any existing illnesses can become increasingly worse and premature death is likely.

There are those who are able to maintain their lifestyle after the age of sixty five. Their jobs had paid them enough for a healthy retirement. Provided they live in an easy to access area they can receive help with specific needs. The number of individuals who are able to afford a healthy retirement are dwindling.

The elderly in Australia need to have better advocacy and better living arrangements if they can not care for themselves. Those who are able to provide the care they need for themselves but are unable to live on the limited amount offered by the government are at the most risk. It is time to consider the treatment of the aging population to be a mark on the goodness of society and make the appropriate changes.




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