Aged Care a High Priority - Poll
23 July 2010 at 3:48 pm
More Australians are concerned about aged care than they are about employment, education and the environment, according to a new poll.
The online survey was undertaken by the Campaign for Care of Older Australians (CCOA) to launch an aged care campaign called The Grand Plan.
The poll reveals that aged care was not just a worry for older people, with men and women of all ages acknowledging that it rated ahead of employment, education and the environment as an area of greatest concern; 91 per cent of respondents agreed aged care should be an entitlement; 96 per cent supported increased government funding; and 95 per cent agreed that those who can’t afford to pay should receive additional assistance.
The online poll, conducted by Pure Profile on behalf of CCOA in June 2010, involved more than 1,000 respondents from across Australia.
CCOA Chair Greg Mundy says respondents also highlighted easy access to in-home services and better links between hospitals and aged care services.
Mundy says more than 60 per cent of respondents said it was difficult or almost impossible to access aged care services.
He says the poll reinforces that Australia’s aged care issues must be addressed and the vision for greater
access and improved choice as part of a properly funded and regulated system paves the way for
government action.
The Grand Plan campaign includes proposals for an independent cost of care study, increased funding, flexible payment options for accommodation, the creation of a single community care program, and opportunities to address workforce issues.
The poll found that 40 per cent of poll respondents said they feared losing their independence as they aged.
The Campaign for Care of Older Australians (CCOA) is a new coalition group comprising 11 national
organisations providing community and residential care and housing for older people.
The Grand Plan campaign calls for all political parties to commit to the promotion of independence and wellness
as well as for demand-driven services, long-term access to care, more choice of services and flexible funding and payment options.
For more details visit www.thegrandplan.com.au
