Looking to the Future of Aged Care in Australia
The aged care industry is rapidly expanding in Australia, composed mainly of the baby boomer generation, which is projected to reach 5.5 million people and is also considered the largest demographic group in the country. The baby boomers are expected to profoundly impact healthcare and, specifically, aged care management in Australia in the upcoming years. So, as the baby boomer generation ages, what are some of the important changes we may anticipate to see in this important industry?
Aged Care Projection
The first major trend confronting the Australian aged care market is the massive 5.5 million baby boomer generation group, which is now approaching its retirement years. With the number of Australians aged 65+, the Federal Government's funding for aged care is predicted to rise significantly. As a result, it is expected that the industry will outpace the current numbers throughout this time and that it will continue to expand to satisfy the rising demand over the next few years.
According to the IBISWorld Business Environment Report on Total Government Expenditure on Aged Care Services data, “Total expenditure on aged care services is forecast to grow by an annualised 6.4% over the five years through 2022-2023, to reach $25.7 Billion.” But despite this projection, only the most frail and sick (people requiring more hands-on/constant care) will be housed in residential care in the future, with the large percentage of seniors living independently or in assisted living environments with community-based services.
Moreover, the face of long-term care is also rapidly evolving. Digital technology is expected to play a significant role in delivering aged care services in Australia. In fact, the use of new technologies for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness is becoming more important to achieve long-term sustainable development in the healthcare industry.
New Technologies in Aged Care
While some organisations are slowly embracing the change in aged care, the old obsolete models of care will soon be replaced. However, those who refuse to adapt will discover that the demand has risen above their capacity to function in the new aged care environment. The tipping point is identifying innovative methods that improve the quality of life for seniors while also enhancing caregivers' work lives. This is why it is necessary to adopt cutting-edge technology that enhances safety and simplifies work procedures, contributing to better healthcare, greater quality, and reduced costs.
One of the most useful aged care technologies is a personal alarm. Personal alarms enable users to get help in the event of an accident such as a fall at home. They can assist older and less able individuals in feeling comfortable at home and extending their independence. Personal alarms and fall detectors can also provide family and friends peace of mind, knowing the wearer can always get assistance when they need it most. Most personal alarms are easy to use. They frequently have a single large button that can be pushed to seek assistance immediately. They may be worn at all times of the day. Despite their modest design, they have the ability to save a person's life.
Government initiatives and funding to support ageing in place
The Australian healthcare and aged care industries are undergoing rapid reform in the wake of the Royal Commission investigation. Read more about how Australia’s health care and aged care sectors are changing in our recent articles on the subject:
Aged Care Royal Commission Recommends Insights, Grants for Assistive Technology
A Roadmap for Dementia Care: Dementia Australia Announces Plans to Improve Quality of Care
In addition, there are variety of government assisted options to help pay for your personal safety device. Read more about it in our detailed guide:
How to get a Government Funded Personal Alarm (CHSP, NDIS, HCP, DVA)
Tunstall is here to help
When it comes to providing aged care technologies, Tunstall Healthcare has end-to-end solutions comprising design and development, consultation and service support, deployment and training, and triage and monitoring services, with over 60 years of global experience. We partner with allied health providers and organisations across the Asia Pacific region to support carers and enable independence for those wishing to live their best life. Contact us today or continue browsing our website to learn more.
Further reading: Three Essential Care Tips To Support People Living With Disabilities
