Ageing doesn’t mean fading: d4d announces rights-based older citizens policy
26/02/2014
Dignity for Disability today released its ageing South Australians policy – anchored by the introduction of new legislation to protect the right of older citizens to live free from abuse and retain their autonomy.
Leader of the party Kelly Vincent MLC says the party’s ageing policy is based around three main action points that will address major ageing issues, including service delivery and safety from abuse, without infringing on older peoples’ individual rights.
“South Australia has an ageing population so from an economic perspective it is important for us to keep older people happy, healthy and engaged,” said Ms Vincent, “but Dignity for Disability’s main concern is making sure older South Australians are given the respect they deserve and services they need without having to compromise their independence, dignity or safety.”
As part of its ageing South Australia policy, Dignity for Disability will:
– Introduce legislation to Parliament modeled on Scotland’s Adult Support and Protection Act of 2007. “This is one of the world’s most effective examples of elder care legislation,” says Ms Vincent. “It crucially differs from existing SA laws by prioritising older person’s rights and then formulating anti-abuse strategies within that framework. Existing legislation prioritises protection, meaning older people are subjected to paternal practices that infringe on their individual rights and discourage them from engaging with a system that is designed to protect them.”
– Address South Australia’s growing dementia epidemic by calling for specialist care options and pushing for a dementia-friendly community. “Dignity for Disability support Alzheimer’s Australia’s calls to implement broad education on communicating with people with dementia so that less of the community is closed-off and confusing for those with the disease,” said Ms Vincent. “The party also calls for funding to establish specialist dementia care facilities, particularly for younger people with dementia who are often stuck in inadequate accommodation with little to engage or stimulate them.”
– Insist that the issue of ageing is incorporated into all Government policy. “Older South Australians are just like everybody else,” said Ms Vincent. “They have diverse needs, interests and goals. Whether formulating policy on transport, housing or city activation the Government should consider how to support and encourage the participation of older citizens through policy. It’s also worth noting that South Australians with disabilities are living longer. We must seek to become a centre of excellence for research and best practice regarding the social, environmental and medical arrangements for people with disabilities who are also ageing.”
