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Optimism and the Proposed Australian "Aged Care Act" Consultations
The proposed new Australian Aged Care Act has generated significant discussion, bringing a mix of cautious optimism and scepticism among stakeholders. The consultation feedback report on the exposure draft reveals varied perspectives on the potential impact of the proposed statutory duties for registered providers and responsible persons within the aged care sector.
The Federal Government's intent for a new Aged Care Act is "to strengthen Australia's aged care system. The new Act aims to ensure that people who access aged care services funded by the Australian Government are treated with respect and have the quality of life they deserve." This ambitious goal underscores the importance of fostering an optimistic yet pragmatic outlook among stakeholders as they navigate the complexities of implementing these changes.
Nevertheless, cautious optimism emerges from the survey respondents regarding these proposed changes. While some are sceptical about their effectiveness, others believe the new statutory duties could foster better practices and accountability within the sector. This duality is succinctly captured in the feedback: "There was cautious optimism amongst survey respondents about the potential for proposed statutory duties to improve practices and ensure accountability in the aged care sector."
One concern highlighted in the report is the apprehension among stakeholders about the imposition of penalties. There is a fear that these unprecedented statutory duties could deter qualified and experienced professionals from working or governing in aged care. This sentiment reflects a broader uncertainty about whether these duties, despite their intention to ensure accountability for serious incidents, will ultimately improve aged care practices and outcomes. As the report states, "stakeholders are apprehensive that the imposition of penalties would dissuade qualified and experienced professionals from working or governing in aged care due to the unprecedented nature of these duties, compared to other similar sectors."
Dementia Australia's response adds another layer to this complex discussion. In their submission, they highlighted, "In our consultation with people living with dementia and carers, we heard that while there was some optimism about supported decision-making being included in the Act, the proposed model may be difficult to enact for people living with dementia and their carers." This underscores the need for careful consideration and adaptation of the proposed statutory duties to support those most vulnerable within the aged care system effectively.
Another aspect of the feedback revolves around the role of the Complaints Commissioner and the broader regulatory framework's ability to address and resolve complaints effectively. The report indicates a similar blend of optimism and scepticism: "There was a mix of cautious optimism and scepticism amongst survey respondents regarding the Complaints Commissioner's role and the broader regulatory framework's capacity to address and resolve complaints in the aged care sector effectively."
In the context of optimism, it is essential to acknowledge the value it brings to such discussions. As highlighted in "Optimism: The How and Why," optimism can significantly impact mental and physical health, and it is a crucial trait for leaders navigating complex changes. The book states, "Realistic and infectious optimism is the essential trait of the globally successful 2020s leader and yearned for by the post-pandemic workforce." This underscores the importance of fostering an optimistic yet realistic outlook when addressing the challenges and opportunities of the new Aged Care Act.
Optimism is an essential trait associated with healthy aging, contributing to better mental and physical health outcomes. A new Aged Care Act could explicitly seek to increase optimism among the aged and their carers, recognising the profound impact of a positive outlook on overall well-being. By embedding practices and policies that promote optimism, the Act could create a more supportive and uplifting environment for those receiving and providing care.
A more positive, optimistic future for the home support sector?
In this context, the home support sector should be working together to think of a more positive, optimistic future. Kathy Eagar, Adjunct Professor of Health Services Research at the University of New South Wales and Queensland University of Technology, urged Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) stakeholders: "The message for Commonwealth Home Support Programme providers is that we should all be working together to think of a more positive, optimistic future – and one that will much better meet the needs of older people. And we shouldn't just sit back and passively wait to see what the Government dishes up; we should be very proactively designing an alternative future."
The mixed feelings in the consultation feedback reflect the broader societal need for balanced and pragmatic optimism. It reminds us that it is vital to remain optimistic, hopeful, and forward-looking; optimism should underpin a good assessment of the challenges.
As reflected in the consultation feedback, the proposed new Australian Aged Care Act is seen with cautious optimism. Stakeholders are hopeful about the potential improvements but remain vigilant about the challenges ahead.
A nuanced perspective aligns with the broader understanding of optimism as a powerful, motivating force that, when combined with realism, can drive significant positive change.
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