90% of Older People Receive Better Aged Care Through Advocacy: A Report and Implications for Healthcare Professionals

The impact of professional advocacy on aged care has been underscored by a new independent evaluation of the National Aged Care Advocacy Program (NACAP). Commissioned by the Department of Health and Aged Care, the report highlights significant improvements in aged care services for older Australians thanks to the efforts of the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).

For healthcare professionals, the findings from the Australian Healthcare Associates (AHA) evaluation are both encouraging and a call to action. With 90% of surveyed older individuals reporting better care outcomes due to advocacy support, it’s clear that advocacy is a cornerstone of quality aged care.

Empowering Older Australians Through Advocacy

The NACAP, funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care, supports 235 advocates and staff across OPAN’s nine-member national network. This collaborative approach has led to remarkable results: more than 80% of older individuals now have a greater awareness of their rights and available services, and 74% feel more confident advocating for their needs.

Craig Gear, CEO of OPAN, emphasised the network’s capacity to handle increasing demand, with over 44,000 cases of information and advocacy support provided in the last financial year—a 20% rise from the previous year. Gear credits the consortium model for these achievements, enabling localised, targeted interventions supported by a national framework.

The Complexities of Aged Care Advocacy

Healthcare professionals working in aged care are no strangers to the complexities of their field. The evaluation found that advocacy cases are becoming increasingly intricate, often involving vulnerable groups with diverse needs. Despite these challenges, OPAN and its network have proven adept at reaching and supporting these populations.

The report describes NACAP as “a highly valued program providing much-needed support and delivering positive outcomes for older people.” For those in healthcare, this reinforces the critical role advocacy plays in addressing the unique needs of older individuals, particularly as the sector faces mounting pressures.

The Role of Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals can amplify the benefits of advocacy by actively collaborating with advocacy organisations like OPAN. By referring older patients to programs such as NACAP and staying informed about aged care rights and resources, healthcare workers can contribute to better outcomes and empower patients to advocate for themselves.

Furthermore, the holiday season poses unique risks for vulnerable older individuals. Craig Gear has cautioned that challenges related to safety and social isolation may intensify during this period. OPAN’s Aged Care Advocacy Line (1800 700 600) remains available during reduced hours over Christmas, providing a crucial safety net.

Takeaways for the Healthcare System

The success of NACAP highlights several lessons for the healthcare system:

1. The Value of Collaboration: Integrating advocacy into patient care enhances outcomes and builds a more resilient aged care framework.
2. Education and Awareness: Healthcare professionals need ongoing education about aged care rights and resources to guide their patients effectively.
3. Adapting to Complexity: As cases become more complex, interdisciplinary approaches and strong networks become vital.
4. Seasonal Vulnerabilities: Proactive measures during high-risk periods, like the holidays, can prevent crises and ensure continuity of care.

The NACAP evaluation underscores the transformative impact of advocacy in aged care. As healthcare professionals, recognising and leveraging these insights can drive meaningful change, ensuring that older Australians receive the dignified and equitable care they deserve.