Reforms show positive impact, but more work ahead
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Recent surveys reveal that Australia’s aged care reforms are yielding positive results, with residents reporting improved experiences in care homes. However, the government acknowledges that further efforts are required to enhance the quality of residential aged care across the country.
The 2022 and 2023 Residents’ Experience Surveys, which gathered feedback from nearly 75,000 residents, showed encouraging trends. In the 2023 survey, approximately 85% of residents said they would recommend their home to someone they know.
Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells, commented on the findings: “With residents already enjoying an improved experience, we can see our ambitious reforms are having a positive effect.”
The surveys highlighted safety, respect, and kindness as the most positive aspects of residents’ experiences. Notably, autonomy – the extent to which residents feel empowered to live independently – showed the most significant improvement.
These surveys are part of a broader initiative to increase transparency and choice in the aged care sector. The feedback collected contributes to the Star Rating system for each home, providing potential residents and their families with valuable information.
Minister Wells emphasised the importance of this approach: “Seeking feedback directly from older Australians is just one of the ways we’re reforming aged care to create a system built on choice, fairness and transparency.”
The government’s reforms have led to an increase in the number of 4- and 5-star homes and a decrease in 1- and 2-star homes. Additional measures include ensuring a registered nurse is on site 24/7 in every home and increasing one-on-one time between residents and carers.
Despite these improvements, Minister Wells acknowledged that more work is needed: “While it’s great to see improvements across the sector, we know we must do more to raise the quality of residential aged care in Australia.”
The government remains committed to its reform agenda, with Minister Wells stating, “We are determined to ensure older Australians have high quality and safe care as they age.”
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
