Advocacy

Supporting the rights of older people Most of the time aged care services work well and the people who use them are happy with the service they receive.

However, sometimes a problem may arise, and you may need help to speak up and have the problem resolved. Many people feel uncomfortable raising a complaint or concern, but it is important to address your concerns early and not leave it to escalate. This can be particularly difficult if your complaint is about the care or services that you are dependent upon for meeting your most basic needs. Nevertheless, we live in a society where each and every one of us, regardless of our age, has rights as citizens and individuals. Advocacy If you feel unsure or unable to address your concerns with the service provider, you can ask an advocacy service to help you. An aged care advocate can assist you to take choice and control over your care services and work with you and your family on the best way to address your concerns with a provider. Their services are usually free and they can give you information, advise, and support you to express your concerns or even speak on your behalf. They will aim to achieve the best possible outcome for you. An advocate can: Help you understand your rights and responsibilities Listen to your concerns and discuss your options Support you and give you confidence in addressing a concern Raise a concern with the service provider or speak on your behalf Advice is generally provided on consumer rights, human rights, aged care rights and responsibilities, financial exploitation, substitute decision-making and elder abuse prevention and response. Advocates can assist with negotiating changes to your care plan, ensuring the needs of people from culturally diverse backgrounds are met. They also deliver specialist community education, such as self-advocacy and how to meet the needs of people with dementia and special needs. There are free and independent advocacy services in every State and Territory that provide free telephone advice, community education and other assistance for older people. The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) is a national network of nine State and Territory organisations that have been successfully delivering advocacy, information and education services to older people in metropolitan, regional, rural and remote Australia for over 25 years. Call 1800 700 600 to speak with an aged care advocate in your State or Territory or visit online at opan.com.au.