The aged care sector needs to increase its dementia care capability, and improve training to ensure workers have the skills to care for increasing numbers of people living with dementia, Nick told The SOURCE.
In the latest in our series about what CEOs are demanding from our Federal politicians as we head into an election, Nick said, “Memory support units are hitting capacity.”
“For complex cases where residents require multidisciplinary care, providing adequate support is also an ongoing challenge," he said.
“There are more than 100 forms of dementia and every experience is unique.
“Staff need a toolkit of specialised skills, knowledge and expertise to support residents, along with their families and carers.”
Nick is urging the Australian Government fast-track funding to upskill workers and to prioritise Action 5 of the National Dementia Action Plan, which promotes reablement, innovative use of technology, and improved services for people with more complex symptoms.
“Every person deserves to be supported in a way that honours their dignity, worth and individuality,” he said.
Tax incentives for regional lenders
Government should provide incentives for financial institutions to support the capital replacement of existing homes, Nick proposed.
“In the 2023-24 period alone, 23 homes closed their doors,” he said.
“Options include offering capital providers with tax incentives to offset lower interest rates to make borrowing more affordable," Nick said.
“This is one way the banking sector could provide a stable funding model to keep more aged care sites viable and support the supply of additional beds.
“This would be a critical lifeline in areas where it’s most needed.”
Assistance with housing overseas workers
While Aged Care Industry Labour Agreements and the Skills in Demand pathway have opened “new doorways” to recruit qualified, experienced staff, “the next challenge is finding new staff a place to live in regional and rural settings”, Nick said.
“More assistance to meet the housing challenges facing overseas aged care nursing recruits to these areas” would be “welcome”, said Nick.
The Weekly SOURCE previously reported aged care providers are spending millions to accommodate staff in regional areas amid severe housing shortages.
The Government's Aged Care Capital Assistance program, worth $666.5 million until 30 June 2028, is in part intended to help aged care providers build staff accommodation, but it is also to support providers in building, upgrading and extending ageing aged care facilities in regional areas.
Nick would also like to see fast-tracking of permanent residency for aged care workers.
Improve aged care's reputation
Nick would like to see Governments and providers come together to restore confidence in the aged care sector.
“Let’s showcase the industry's success stories and achievements. The positive impact our workers make is profound and should be recognised and celebrated for the vital work they do, each and every day,” he said.
See last week’s wishlist story with Anne McCormack, CEO mecwacare
