Visitors to Kanandah’s sprawling residential aged care complex open day on Friday got a glimpse of comfortable, well maintained accommodation, attractive surroundings and well run services.
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But beyond the buildings, gardens and spotless facilities, one of the greatest strengths of Kanandah and other aged care providers in the Mid-Western Region lies in their strong connection to their communities.
Facilities like Kanandah, Pioneer House and Opal Aged Care in Mudgee, Wenonah Lodge in Gulgong and Ada Cottage In Kandos allow seniors in need of care to stay close to family and lifelong friends and continue to be part of their communities.
Many of the residential aged care services in the region are community owned services, established by farsighted local residents who saw the growing need for local aged, care, overseen by volunteer board members and staffed by local residents who are supported by dedicated volunteers.
Community support for aged care is evident in the extent of involvement in a project as simple as Kanandah’s courtyard gardens.
This involved everyone from the residents, acting as unofficial project advisors and consultants, to volunteers who pitched in, the people who sold and bought raffle tickets and the businesses which supported the project through discounts or donations.
The aged care sector is also a major employer in the Mid-Western Region and an important part of the local economy. Kanandah’s 80-bed residential care facility alone has more than 120 staff members and is an important client of many local businesses.
The availability of quality aged care can also be a key factor considered by people who are considering relocating to the region.
But aged care providers are concerned that cuts to government funding may reduce their ability to meet increasing demand.
Groups such as Alzheimers Australia and Palliative Care Australia have expressed concern that $1.2 billion in funding cuts over four years will threaten the very things that enhance seniors’ quality of life.
They believe comfort, community, companionship and care, and the knowledge that qualified staff are close at hand at all times when need will be under threat.
Making the budget balance is important, but it should not not come at the expense of those who have worked and contributed to the community throughout their lives.
