OPAN Annual Report spotlights pilot advocacy projects

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has released its 2021-22 Annual Report, which highlights the impact of key pilot projects including specialist financial advocacy officers and “check-ins” for people receiving home care. The network saw an 18% increase on information and individual advocacy cases as compared to 2020-21, while its financial advocacy officers achieved “significant results” including the resolution of one aged care resident’s $12,000 debt, and its Home Care Check-in Project aided isolated older people receiving home care who were at risk of harm or neglect.

“We are particularly pleased with the impact that the financial advocacy officers are already having – ensuring older people have a fair and equitable approach to the fees and charges surrounding their aged care,” said OPAN Chairperson Mary Anne Hunt and OPAN CEO Craig Gear in a joint statement. “The pilot of the Home Care Check-In Project highlights the need for us to work as ‘a village’ to enable older people, who may be socially isolated, to continue to exercise their right to live independently but with the support they need to keep them safe and connected to their community.”

OPAN reported receiving more than 27,000 calls about problems with aged care services last year.