Action on ageing
Australia has an increasingly ageing population. As we grow older as a nation, we must ensure that we are progressively recognising diversity and promoting inclusion, especially when it comes to aged care.
In a welcomed move last week, the Productivity Commission’s Report into aged care highlighted the need to address the difficulties experienced by LGBTI elders in accessing aged care services.
In brief, the Commission identified that in order to improve the aged care sector, it is necessary to maintain a safe, inclusive environment and atmosphere within the residential aged care facilities, and provide for the recognition of partners in consultations and decision-making.
Of particular importance, was the Commission’s mention that aged care facilities must be inclusive and non-discriminatory, regardless of whether the individual chooses to openly identify as LGBTI.
Issues regarding sexuality are not often included in public policy discussions on ageing. Older LGBTI couples, for example, have had to live their entire lives with no recognition of their relationship, having to submit to criminal sanctions, or at the very least social stigmas. Now these individuals and couples are being denied appropriate care because these historical legacies have not been properly addressed.
Currently, the Department of Health and Ageing has funded specialist LGBTI training packages. However, much broader policy implementation must occur. Specifically, a national LGBTI Aged Care Policy would assist in ensuring that respect and non-discrimination in relation to LGBTI older people is a core principle in providing residential aged care accreditation and funding.
The Commission’s report emphasised the need for greater deregulation to make specialist LGBTI aged care services more possible. However, the shift towards a more user-pay service model must not disadvantage older people from low socio-economic backgrounds, especially those reliant on pensions.
Unfortunately, however, the Commission’s report did not address the need for law reform in addition to ongoing policy and education change to promote sexual and gender diversity in aged care services.
Exemptions to anti-discrimination law continue to undermine the ability of all people to access appropriate services. Freedom of religion is not a justification for allowing what effectively are business organisations, providing public services, to exclude LGBTI people.
Ultimately, reform to the aged care sector must empower LGBTI individuals and recognise their rights to live with respect, privacy and dignity. This will ensure that respect for diversity translates into culturally appropriate service delivery.
By SENTHORUN RAJ, NSW GLRL
