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The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends an additional 2023 COVID-19 vaccine dose for adults aged 65 to 74 and high-risk 18 to 64-year-olds if 6+ months passed since their last shot. For those aged ≥ 75, it’s advised to receive this booster after the same time frame. Consultation with a healthcare provider is encouraged.  

The additional dose is most beneficial for individuals without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, those with medical conditions increasing COVID-19 severity risk or complex health needs, and residents of aged care facilities within the specified age groups. 

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠  marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

Dementia Action Week is an initiative from Dementia Australia.

There are great deal of resources available with information on the following:

• Support
• Dementia Helpline
• Counselling
• Living with dementia
• Families and carers
• Early onset dementia

New research from Dementia Australia shows that 81 per cent of people who have a family member with dementia noticed they were treated differently when they went to stores, cafes, or restaurants. That’s why, during this year’s Dementia Action Week, everyone is being asked to do some easy things to make a future where people with dementia are treated better in Australia.

Most people with dementia live in our communities, but many people don’t know much about dementia. This lack of knowledge sometimes causes people with dementia to be treated unfairly or differently. This Dementia Action Week, we want everyone to take simple steps to make our communities more friendly for people with dementia.

There are many tips for people in the community including healthcare professionals. Visit the Dementia Australia website for more information: https://www.dementia.org.au/education.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠  marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

The Australian government is trying to make it easier for foreign workers in aged care to become permanent residents because there aren’t enough people to fill these jobs. But at the same time, they are making older temporary workers leave the country, even if they are doing important work.

Australian citizens in their 60s can keep working in aged care as long as they want. However, temporary visa holders aged 57-year-old must leave Australia for being too old according to the immigration rules.

Immigration lawyer Tin Zhu thinks that Australia should change the rules for certain jobs like aged care. He believes it’s unfair that even though someone that has been in Australia for eight years can’t apply to stay permanently because of her age.

Some experts say that older migrants can cost the country more in the long run because they might need more healthcare as they get older. So, there’s a debate about whether Australia should change its rules to allow older workers to stay if they are doing important and understaffed jobs.

Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠  marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

The objective of World Alzheimer’s Month is to increase awareness and combat the stigma associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Despite misconceptions, many still consider dementia as a typical part of aging. Our mission is to educate people about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Early recognition of these signs can lead to access to vital information, support, and treatments.

Alzheimer’s and dementia manifest through a range of recognisable symptoms. A primary hallmark, memory loss disrupts the ability to retain recent events or information. Coordinating activities becomes challenging, often resulting in difficulties with tasks that require precise movements. Language problems emerge as individuals struggle to articulate thoughts, find words, or comprehend speech. Disorientation, both temporally and spatially, causes confusion about time, place, and surroundings. Misinterpreting information becomes common, leading to misunderstandings in conversations or daily activities. Additionally, individuals may encounter problems in organisation, making it hard to keep track of personal belongings or follow routines. One notable symptom is a reduced inclination or capability to initiate activities once enjoyed, reflecting a declining interest in hobbies or social engagement.

Consult with doctors, geriatric specialists, and neurologists who can provide medical assessments, diagnosis, and guidance on managing dementia symptoms.

Gratitude In-home Care has a team of experienced staff members that work with dementia clients on a daily basis in the home care setting. Get in touch for any inquiries or and to book a free consultation!

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠  marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) was designed to provide companionship and social interaction for elderly individuals through volunteer visits. The program is available to seniors receiving residential aged care and in-home aged care services, as well as those on the National Priority System, targeted at those facing social isolation. The current program was introduced on July 1 and has approximately 140 organisations currently engaged in the program.

Volunteer visits are a cost-free effort aimed at offering friendship, companionship, and cultivating social interaction with seniors. The program prioritises the needs of older individuals from specific linguistic, cultural, and vulnerability backgrounds who are more susceptible to social isolation. This includes individuals from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, diverse cultural backgrounds, rural or remote areas, financial or social disadvantage, homelessness or at risk of it, veterans, care leavers, those affected by forced adoption or removal, LGBTQI+ individuals, people with disabilities, hearing impairments, cognitive impairments including dementia, as well as those dealing with mental health conditions and trauma exposure.

Funding is provided to community organisations to facilitate volunteer recruitment, training, support, police checks, volunteer-elder matching, and to nurture the relationships formed between volunteers and elderly recipients of care. Volunteers commit to at least 20 annual visits, which can take the form of one-on-one or group interactions in residential aged care homes, or one-on-one visits to individuals with Home Care Packages.

Referrals are accepted from the elderly individuals themselves, as well as from aged care service providers, family members, and friends. Becoming a volunteer visitor in aged care offers a gratifying and transformative experience, as it involves forming friendships, sharing experiences, and providing companionship to those in need of social connection. You can get more information on volunteering here: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-volunteer-visitors-scheme-acvvs/volunteer

Volunteers typically spend an hour with their assigned elderly person once a fortnight, scheduling visits at mutually convenient times and locations, which can include the individual’s residence, an aged care facility, or a public setting. Elderly Australians lacking consistent contact with family or friends, or experiencing cultural disconnection, can be referred to a local volunteer visiting network by their aged care service provider. Additionally, older Australians receiving government-funded aged care services have the option to self-refer to the program. You can get more information on self-referring here: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-volunteer-visitors-scheme-acvvs/request

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠  marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

The growth of Australia’s aging demographic is estimated to account for a 40 per cent of increasing federal government spending on healthcare and elderly support services.

Over the forthcoming decade, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and interest payments on government debt are expected to show the most rapid growth among various spending categories. However, as the 40-year projection period draws to a close, spending on healthcare and aged care is predicted to experience the quickest growth.

In April, the national cabinet disclosed a strategy to achieve savings of $50 billion over the next decade by decreasing the growth target for NDIS, reducing it from 14 percent to eight percent by 2026.

More information can be found in the intergenerational report can be found here: https://treasury.gov.au/publication/2023-intergenerational-report

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠  marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

Australia heavily relies on essential workers to keep the country functioning smoothly, but unfortunately, many of these vital individuals struggle to afford basic housing. This financial strain sheds light on the ongoing labour shortages faced by key industries, as the workers cannot manage to reside in areas most affected by the shortfall.

Kasy Chambers, the executive director of Anglicare Australia, highlights the significant issue arising from this disparity. She points out that practically no region in Australia remains affordable for essential workers such as those in aged care, early childhood education, cleaning, nursing, and various other crucial roles that society depends on.

In a study conducted on March 17, researchers examined 45,895 rental listings nationwide. The objective was to determine the availability of listings priced at less than 30 percent of the standard wage for 16 categories of essential workers. The study revealed that aged care workers had the financial capacity to afford only 1.1 percent of available rentals, while nurses could manage 1.5 percent, and ambulance drivers could afford 2.4 percent.

Ms. Chambers suggests that the most effective way to enhance rental affordability involves constructing social and affordable housing. She emphasizes the need for tax reforms that prioritize individuals in need of housing rather than investors.

If this legislation is approved, it would encourage more funding towards social housing. The demand for increased social and affordable housing is substantial, but the implementation should occur gradually over several decades, avoiding hasty actions with unattainable targets.

Emma King, the chief executive of the Victorian Council of Social Service, suggests that the state should reconsider its plans concerning substantial property developers contributing to social and affordable housing efforts. She proposes that Victoria should adopt a comprehensive set of reforms, which could encompass measures like rent controls, inclusionary zoning, contributions from developers, and reducing incentives that drive up housing prices.

Dr. Fotheringham proposes an alternative to a two-year rent freeze, drawing inspiration from the ACT’s approach. The ACT has regulations in place that prevent landlords from increasing rents by more than 110 percent of headline inflation. This strategy could prove more effective in addressing housing affordability concerns.

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

🌐 http://www.gihc.com.au/
📞 1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
📧 info@gihc.com.au⁠  📧 marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

I have been approved for a Home Care Package and now on the waiting list. What care options do I have?

As you await your Home Care Package (HCP) funding to be released, there are several options to consider that can provide essential care and support. While waiting times for HCPs can vary, exploring these avenues can help you access assistance and maintain your well-being during this interim period.

1. Temporary Access to Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP):
   • If eligible, you might access short-term assistance through CHSP while awaiting your HCP.
   • CHSP offers entry-level home care services, with a quicker assessment and approval process.
   • The government subsidises a significant portion of services, such as basic personal care, cleaning, and meal preparation.
2. Interim Packages:
   • For those assessed at higher HCP levels, interim packages can provide access to essential services.
   • An interim package lets you access support sooner, even if it’s a lower level of care than assessed for.
   • Opting for an interim package doesn’t affect your place on the HCP waiting list.
3. Private Home Care:
   • Choose to pay for services from private home care providers, offering immediate assistance.
   • Private providers offer quality care, though without government subsidies.
   • This option caters to urgent needs or additional services beyond government-funded care.
4. Consult Your Doctor:
   • Discuss your health concerns with your doctor for potential assistance options.
   • The Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program can offer allied health support for complex conditions.
   • Your doctor can arrange a structured care plan involving various health professionals.
5. Lean on Family and Friends:
   • Family and friends might already be providing informal care; discuss additional assistance.
   • This network can offer invaluable support until your HCP becomes available.
6. Urgent Needs and Reassessment:
   • In urgent health situations, your position on the waiting list may be expedited.
   • Request reassessment if your health condition worsens to hasten the access process.
7. Plan and Research:
   • Research home care providers and costs, preparing for your HCP’s availability.
   • Explore adjustments to your living space for safety and emergency readiness.
8. Temporary Pausing:
   • If you’ve arranged temporary care, you can pause it upon HCP availability.
   • Notify My Aged Care to reactivate your access without losing your waiting list spot.

While awaiting your Home Care Package, seniors have several options to ensure their well-being. From temporary assistance through CHSP and interim packages to private providers, consulting doctors, seeking help from family and friends, and addressing urgent needs, these pathways offer valuable support.

Gratitude in-home care can assist with providing temporary private home care while waiting for the home care package funding to be made available.

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

🌐 http://www.gihc.com.au/
📞 1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
📧 info@gihc.com.au⁠  📧 marcus@gihc.com.au⁠

Art Therapy for Seniors: Art therapy has gained prominence as a potent tool for enhancing seniors’ well-being.

• 1. Self-Expression and Communication: Art therapy offers non-verbal self-expression, bridging the gap for seniors facing communication challenges.

• 2. Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging in art stimulates critical thinking, attention, and memory, promoting cognitive health.

• 3. Emotional Healing: Art therapy provides a safe outlet for processing grief, trauma, and emotions, aiding emotional healing.

• 4. Stress Reduction: Creative activities trigger dopamine release, reducing stress and fostering mental well-being.

• 5. Enhanced Social Interaction: Group art sessions cultivate community, addressing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

• 6. Improved Motor Skills: Art techniques enhance fine motor skills, benefiting physical coordination and dexterity.

• 7. Sense of Achievement: Completing art projects boosts self-esteem, reminding seniors of their capabilities and purpose.

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠

In-home aged care offers a host of benefits that cater to the unique needs and preferences of seniors. Let’s explore some of these advantages:

1. Familiar Environment: Seniors can remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own home, surrounded by cherished memories and possessions. This can have a positive impact on their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
2. Independence: In-home care promotes independence by allowing seniors to maintain their routines, make decisions about their daily activities, and retain a sense of control over their lives.
3. Personalised Care: Care plans are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and preferences. This personalized approach ensures that seniors receive the exact level of assistance required, whether it’s with personal care, medication management, or housekeeping.
4. One-on-One Attention: Seniors receive undivided attention from their caregivers, fostering a strong and meaningful relationship. This can lead to enhanced emotional well-being and companionship.
5. Cost-Effective: In many cases, in-home care can be a more cost-effective option compared to moving into a residential care facility. Seniors can receive the support they need while avoiding the expenses associated with relocating.
6. Safety and Security: Caregivers can help create a safe environment by addressing potential hazards and assisting with mobility and fall prevention. This contributes to a reduced risk of accidents and injuries.
7. Family Involvement: Family members can play an active role in the care of their loved ones while receiving guidance and support from professional caregivers.
8. Flexibility: In-home care provides the flexibility to adapt and modify care plans as needs change over time. This ensures that seniors continue to receive the appropriate level of support as their health and circumstances evolve.
9. Continuity of Routine: Seniors can continue enjoying their preferred routines, hobbies, and social activities within their community, maintaining connections with friends and neighbors.
10. Peace of Mind: Both seniors and their families experience peace of mind knowing that professional caregivers are there to provide assistance, monitor health conditions, and respond to emergencies.
11. Transition Support: In-home care can be a transitional step for seniors who are recovering from an illness, surgery, or hospital stay. It facilitates a smoother transition back to independent living.
12. Reduced Stress: By alleviating the burden of daily tasks and responsibilities, in-home care helps seniors reduce stress and focus on enjoying their lives.

In-home aged care offers a holistic and individualized approach to senior support, emphasizing comfort, autonomy, and a high quality of life within the familiar surroundings of one’s own home.

Get in contact for any in-home aged care inquiries and to arrange a free consultation.

http://www.gihc.com.au/
1300 912 155, (03) 9863 6149
info@gihc.com.au⁠