The importance of aged care for older people
Improved quality of life
Aged care services can improve the quality of life for older people by helping with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. This can help older people maintain their independence and dignity, and enhance their overall wellbeing.
Access to medical care
Medical care can include regular check-ups, monitoring for any signs of illness, medication management, assistance with mobility and other daily living activities, and rehabilitation services. This can help older people manage chronic conditions and age-related health issues.
Arcare provides a range of aged care services to ensure our residents have full access to medical care, including dementia care (sensitive care), nursing services, palliative care, and short-term respite care. Respite residents receive the same services as all other residents in our community. This means a private room, personal care depending on needs, and the opportunity to take part in our active social calendar.
Socialisation and community engagement
Aged care services are not only about physical care – they also provide emotional and social support to the elderly. This can include opportunities for socialisation and community engagement, such as group activities, outings, and events. This can help older people combat social isolation and loneliness, and improve their mental health and wellbeing.
Using our Relationship-First Approach, Arcare works with our lifestyle teams, volunteers and families to ensure residents feel part of the Arcare community.
Safety and security
Aged care services can provide older people with a safe and secure living environment, with support and assistance available if needed. This can help older people feel secure and reduce the risk of accidents or emergencies.
Our commitment to maintaining a sense of safety and security extends to everyone in the Arcare community, and forms part of our core six ‘Senses’ .
Promoting independence
We recognise the importance of supporting older people to maintain their independence and autonomy for as long as possible. This can involve aiding with tasks such as meal preparation, housekeeping, and transportation.
Enriching the lives of older people
Our holistic approach provides opportunities for our residents to live fulfilling and meaningful lives, with access to support and assistance when needed.
The importance of aged care for families and loved ones
Providing respite care
Aged care services can provide respite care for family members who are caring for elderly loved ones. This allows family caregivers to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities and attend to their own needs, such as work or personal activities.
Reducing caregiver burden
Aged care services can reduce the burden on family caregivers by helping with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. This can help to alleviate stress and improve the overall quality of life for both the caregiver and the elderly loved one.
Providing peace of mind
Aged care services can provide peace of mind for family members by ensuring that their loved ones are receiving quality care and support. This can help to alleviate worries and concerns about their loved one’s well-being.
Improving family relationships
Aged care services can improve family relationships by reducing the stress and strain that can come with caring for an elderly loved one. This can allow family members to focus on spending quality time together, rather than solely on caregiving responsibilities.
Enabling families to make informed decisions
Aged care services can provide families with information and resources to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s care. This can include information about available services, care options, and financial aid.
The importance of aged care for communities and society
Promoting social cohesion
Aged care services promote social cohesion by providing opportunities for older people to take part in social activities and connect with others, fostering a sense of community and belonging. This can help combat social isolation, not just for older people, but for the community.
Connection is a core psychological need. Volunteering is one of many ways to fulfill that connection, whether through specific aged care residences as individuals, or through volunteer organisations. Find out how to become an Arcare Volunteer.
Communities worldwide are leading intergenerational connection and learning between the elderly and younger people, acknowledging that creating opportunities for these interactions can lead to powerful physical, psychosocial and even economic benefits. At Arcare, we encourage community engagement, through volunteering and excursions. Residences such as Arcare Essendon have hosted a visits from a local childcare centre, with the view of making this a regular part of life at Arcare.
Reducing healthcare costs
Aged care services can help to reduce healthcare costs by providing preventative care and support for older people. By managing chronic conditions and age-related health issues, aged care services can reduce the need for hospitalisation and emergency care, taking some stress off our healthcare system.
Find out more about our Arcare aged care services.
Providing employment opportunities
The aged care industry is a major employer, providing job opportunities for people with different skill sets and backgrounds, including aged care workers, nurses, allied health professionals, admin, catering, lifestyle, and maintenance. This helps the local community by creating jobs and boosting the economy.
Volunteering is also a great first step towards working in aged care. It’s a way to find out if aged care is for you, lends well to your CV, and provides a comfortable transition into the work environment. Find out how to become an Arcare Volunteer.
Aged care needs people from all backgrounds, with varying skillsets and talents, to meet the needs of our elderly population. If you’re interested in working in aged care, find out more on the Arcare Careers website.
Contact us
If you’re considering aged care for yourself or a loved one, have a chat with our team on 1300 292 378 or submit an enquiry through the Contact Us page on the Arcare website.
If you’re considering a career with Arcare, or would like to find out more about volunteering, traineeships and student placements, visit the Arcare Careers site.
