Objectives: To explore perceptions and expectations regarding aged care among older Forgotten Australians, informing better ways of delivering safe and inclusive care for this group. Methods: In-depth interviews were undertaken with sixteen Forgotten Australians to understand their perspectives, hopes and perceived barriers to receiving appropriate aged care. Qualitative data were analysed using Ritchie and Spencer's framework approach. Results: Participants were highly averse to receiving aged care in residential settings, particularly where delivered by religious organisations. Limited perceived opportunities to develop trust and maintain control and independence while managing re-traumatising situations shaped Forgotten Australians negative perceptions of the aged care system. Participants also spoke of how their lifelong marginalisation could limit their access to choice and quality in aged care.
Conclusion:The aged care industry could provide safe and inclusive care by adopting a person-centred and trauma-informed model that recognises and addresses the specific needs and challenges of Forgotten Australians.
Objectives:Little is known about how prepared the aged care system is to meet the specific needs of Care Leavers and Forgotten Australians. We explored service provider and advocate perspectives about the barriers and facilitators for appropriate and safe care for this group. Methods: Three focus groups with sixteen professional stakeholders examined the ways aged care support is accessible and inaccessible for Forgotten Australians. Results: Participants noted structural and organisational features that act as barriers to best practice aged care. It was perceived that funding models and processes provide insufficient opportunity to develop trust with professionals and access tailored care. Once engaged with aged care services, the sector lacks the psychological literacy required to tailor care to manage the complex needs and preferences of Forgotten Australians. Conclusions: Systemic and organisational change that promotes increased flexibility, trauma-informed care and non-residential housing options will improve the safety and accessibility of aged care for Forgotten Australians.
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