MEDIA RELEASE
Date: February 25, 2019
Launch of Aged Care System Navigator trials
Monday 25 February, 2019
Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP has launched three trial programs today which aim to more effectively deliver information and support to older people trying to navigate the complex aged care system.
Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has been at the forefront of these trials and has emphasized its importance for those entering aged care.
“30 organisations are involved, which means an array of aged care experience and ties to local communities will be ensuring an effective delivery of information to those who need it most,” Craig Gear, OPAN CEO, said.
As part of the trial, OPAN has developed a chat function on the OPAN website which can deliver online assistance to older people and their families. This will particularly focus on vulnerable groups, especially those living in remote and rural areas.
The chat answers questions about navigating the aged care system and escalates serious matters to one of nine specialist support workers (Navigators) who can offer one-on-one assistance.
“OPAN encourages all people attempting to navigate aged care to use the chat service, whether they are an older person, family member, or carer,” says Gear.
“My Aged Care is full of answers, but we are told it is difficult to find them. The bot quickly directs those seeking information them to the right place.”
Five of OPAN’s member organisations will provide additional supports through community and information hubs in Wide Bay (Queensland), greater Perth, Dubbo (NSW), Northern NSW and country South Australia. An additional trial of homelessness supports will occur in central Melbourne and central Sydney.
The chat feature is now live and can be used at www.opan.com.au.
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More details regarding Older Persons Advocacy Network, a leader in providing aged care advocacy support and elder abuse prevention, can be found at opan.com.au
