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Aged Care
Our region (as of June 2016) has over 54,000 people aged 70 or older and 3,885 residential aged care facilities (RACFs).
We are working with patients, carers, families and our health service delivery partners to ensure primary health care services are accessible, available and affordable to older Australians in our region when they are needed.
Services We Fund
To improve aged care in our communities we collaborate with the services below:
Palliative Care in RACFs
We support in-hours and after-hours palliative care services for residents of residential aged care facilities (RACFs). This service provides residents access to coordinated and high-quality palliative care that is timely, patient-centred, based on clinical need and the patient’s GP palliative care plan.
AGES Model of Care Project
After-hours care is supported through the Darling Downs Health Acute Geriatric Evaluation Service (AGES) Model of Care Project in the after-hours period.
The project provides a ‘Hospital in the Nursing Home’ model of care, focused on providing:
- a telephone triage service (in consultation with the GP)
- telehealth consultations providing virtual assessments
- rapid assessments in the RACF by the AGES team
- advocacy, education and training support for RACF staff
- integration with GPs promoting cross sector exchange of information, as well as education about the AGES–Nurse Navigator model of care.
RACF Nurse Guide
Our PHN has funded the development of a comprehensive care guide to assist nurses and personal care staff working in West Moreton residential aged care facilities (RACFs).
The aim of the care guide is to:
- enhance thoroughness of nursing assessments;
- assist in care planning; and
- promote early health interventions to prevent avoidable health declines and hospitalisations and keep the elderly in their home environment for as long as possible.
These care guides are currently being trialled for a six-month period at two RACFs in the West Moreton region.
Helpful Links and Resources
We've compiled a list of helpful links and resources for you.
For Health Professionals
For Community
End of Life Directions for Aged Care (ELDAC)
Finds resources to equip healthcare providers with skills and information to help older Australians receive high-quality end of life care.
Advance Care Planning
Find information about Advance Care Planning.
Department of Health
Find information, tools and resources to support health care professionals working in the aged care sector.
palliAGED
palliAGED provides palliative care evidence and resources for healthcare professionals working in aged care.
My Aged Care
My Aged Care is the Australian Government's starting point for individuals and their families aged care journey.
CareSearch Palliative Care Knowledge Network
CareSearch provides trustworthy information about palliative care for patients, carers and families as well as for the health professionals providing their care.
Get Support
For more information, please contact:
Jared Cruikshank
Program Officer
Phone: 07 3202 4433
Email: jared.cruikshank@ddwmphn.com.au
