For many seniors, knowing where you stand on legislative rights is essential. For example, “If I grow old and my body deteriorates, I need carer support. Will my rights be reduced? Do I still have the right to manage my finance?”
As a result of this and other questions, Chung Wah Community Care (Chung Wah CC) has invited Advocare WA to host two educational talks at the Balcatta and Willetton Hub. These aim at helping our consumers to understand the Charter of Aged Care Rights and Elderly Abuse.
The Charter of Aged Care Rights was delivered in various languages to ensure senior consumers understand their rights regarding the government-subsidised aged care services they receive, such as high-quality care, dignity and respect, independence, etc. In addition, the Aged Care Quality Standards set out service quality and safety requirements. As an aged-care service organisation, Chung Wah CC has the responsibility to help consumers, their family and carers to understand their rights.
Suppose the consumers are unsatisfied with the services provided by the organisation. In that case, they have the right to file a complaint and appeal. Senior consumers also have the right to choose a third party and independent, not-for-profit organisation such as Advocare to represent them in seeking solutions. Such services are usually free of charge.
During the second half of the workshop, the presenter shifted to the topic of elderly abuse. According to studies, elderly abuse can happen anywhere. Studies have shown that 1 in 6 elderlies has experienced some form of abuse in their lifetime. Victims are usually abused by their family members. Many types of elder abuse include financial, psychological, sexual, social and physical. Financial abuse is the most common abuse. It is the improper use of the elderly’s money or assets. It includes withholding money or making decisions on how the money is being used without the consent of the elderly.
Our presenter clearly articulates to participants in the room that seniors have the full rights to access and arrange their own finance. There are no legislative laws in Australia indicating family members can use a senior’s finance without consent. If you identify that you or someone you know is experiencing elderly abuse, please call the free and confidential WA Elder Abuse Helpline at 1300 724 679. At the end of the workshop, our seniors felt well-informed and thanked the presenter with much applause.
Chung Wah has been servicing the WA community since 1909, dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, Chung Wah CC has over 35 years of professional care experience helping seniors and people with disability improve their well-being and better integrate into the community. In 2022, we’re promoting our theme, “Branching Together”, to reach far and wide with various communities, young and old, to build a better community for all.
