With a new legislated supported decision-making approach to commence on 1 November under the federal Aged Care Act, the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has launched new resources for both older people and aged care providers.
The changes reinforce that older people have the right to make their own decisions, with appropriate support if they need it.
For registered supporters, these changes introduce clear responsibilities and consequences, ensuring that the autonomy and voice of the older person is respected in all decisions about their care and life.
OPAN's Supported Decision-Making Toolkit helps older people, their families and supporters understand what supported decision-making is, why it matters, and how to use it in everyday life.
It includes practical tips, easy-to-understand information, and real-life examples to help people stay in control of decisions about their care, services and daily life.
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For aged care providers, OPAN has developed an eLearning module, offering practical guidance on how to put supported decision-making into practice in line with Aged Care Act obligations.
"The new regime is about rebalancing the power dynamics in aged care and putting the wishes of older people front and centre," OPAN chief executive officer Craig Gear said.
Mr Gear said supported decision-making was a cornerstone of a rights-based aged care system.
"The new Aged Care Act reinforces that right," he said.
"It ensures older people remain at the centre of their care, supported by those they trust - whether that's a family member, friend, advocate or provider.
"These new resources give older people practical tools to exercise that right and help providers understand how to embed supported decision-making in everyday practice."
The OPAN resources were developed by subject matter experts in collaboration with older people, advocates and aged care providers, to ensure they reflect real-world experiences and practical application.
The Supported Decision-Making Toolkit and eLearning module for providers are freely available at opan.org.au
