The Australian Psychological Society (APS) is calling on the Federal Government to urgently address the shocking rates of mental illness amongst aged-care residents, following the release of the final report from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
The APS welcomes the Commission’s recommendations that aged-care residents receive a mental health assessment and subsequent treatment plan within two months of entry into residential aged care, as well as three monthly reassessment and review by a psychologist, GP, or psychiatrist.
APS President Tamara Cavenett said Australians are appalled that about half of aged-care residents live with mental illness, and the Government must ensure every aged-care resident has access to psychological care and mental health services that could be coordinated by psychologists, if they need it.
“The Commission’s recommendations for early and mandatory assessment and intervention for aged-care residents is a welcome step, but it is only the first of many needed to address the scope of the mental health crisis facing aged-care residents,” said Ms Cavenett.
“Currently about half of aged-care residents need urgent mental health support. Depression and anxiety are not normal aspects of growing older and should not be considered a rite-of passage.”
“As the report acknowledges, around 10 percent of older Australians have symptoms of anxiety and depression but in residential aged care facilities this figure increases to up to a shameful 50 percent of residents.”
“These people are our parents, our grandparents, our most dearly loved friends and family – and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.”
The APS also welcomed the Commission’s recommendations to reduce and regulate the use of restrictive practices for addressing behavioural issues.
“Restrictive practices need significantly more oversight and should only be used in exceptional circumstances,” said Ms Cavenett.
“The research shows psychological interventions and approaches are effective in reducing challenging behaviour. They also improve the quality of life for residents and reduce stress levels for families, staff and other residents. Australians in Aged Care deserve access to world class health care – and that includes mental health.”
“The APS looks forward to working closely with the Federal Government to urgently address the unacceptable rates of mental illness experienced by aged-care residents.”
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on Twitter: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 27,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.