Flinders Uni Tackles Aged Care Crisis

Experts at Flinders University are pioneering innovative models of care for older Australians, addressing critical system fragmentation.

Fragmented health and aged care services in Australia create vulnerability and safety risks for over 20,400 individuals discharged daily, many aged 65 and over. This disjointed system often forces families to act as intermediaries, leading to duplicated efforts and financial strain.

To combat these issues, Flinders University established the Ageing Alliance, a research hub dedicated to enhancing the lives of older citizens. The alliance collaborates with various stakeholders, utilizing data analysis and clinical trials to improve care planning, transitions, and funding.

A significant initiative is the Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Optimising Health Care in the Home for Older Australians. This $3 million federally funded project aims to support seniors in maintaining independent and safe living at home for extended periods.

Professor David Currow highlights the alliance's goal: to gain a clearer understanding of the challenges faced by older Australians. He emphasizes that nearly everyone will interact with this system, either as a caregiver or recipient, underscoring the need for immediate improvements.

Amidst these challenges, the alliance's Recover trial is assisting older adults with long COVID and other health complications. This program trains aged care providers to detect symptoms early and deliver personalized support, enhancing quality of life and restoring independence.

Ultimately, the research strives to build a system that values older Australians, respects their dignity, and caters to their complex social, emotional, and existential needs.