What aged care support can Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples access?
.avif)
Acknowledgement of Country
MePACS acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia, and pay our respects to Elders past and present.
Celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Each year, NAIDOC Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It also encourages important conversations about access to services that support health, safety and independence.
For many First Nations peoples, staying connected to home, family and Country is central to wellbeing. As people age, or live with disability or chronic conditions, having the right support in place can make a meaningful difference to everyday life.
What many people may not realise is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can often access government-funded aged care and support services earlier than the broader population, helping them get support when they need it and remain independent and connected to community for longer.
What government-funded aged care support is available for aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have access to several aged care programs and support services through My Aged Care.
Some programs are designed specifically for First Nations peoples, while others are mainstream programs that all Australians can access.
Importantly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may be eligible for government-funded aged care from 50 years of age (rather than 65 for the general population).
Indigenous-specific aged care programs and supports
Mainstream My Aged Care programs
Additional supports available through My Aged Care
These are not standalone programs but may be available through an approved aged care package or service:
Why should Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples contact NACCHO for aged care support?
NACCHO (the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation) works closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) across Australia to help Elders and older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people access culturally safe aged care services.
Through its Elder Care Support Program, NACCHO provides community-led assistance that helps people understand and navigate the aged care system more effectively.
Key benefits:
- Receive culturally safe support from First Nations staff who understand community, culture and local needs.
- Get help navigating My Aged Care and aged care services, making it easier to understand available support and access the right care.
- Access the Elder Care Support (ECS) Program, which assists Elders, older people and their families throughout the aged care journey.
- Benefit from community-led care coordination, delivered through local ACCHOs and ACCOs that understand the needs of their communities.
Why maintaining independence matters?
Remaining independent at home and active in the community plays an important role in overall wellbeing.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, it can help:
- Maintain connection to Country
- Stay close to family and community
- Support cultural identity and practices
- Build confidence and emotional wellbeing
Having access to appropriate support services means people can continue to live in a way that feels safe, familiar and meaningful to them.
How can aged care support help with managing chronic conditions?
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are more likely to experience chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness. This can affect the ability to maintain independence and community connections.
Common challenges may include:
- Reduced mobility or balance – Pain, muscle weakness or joint stiffness can make it harder to move safely around the home, climb stairs or get in and out of the shower.
- Managing ongoing health conditions – Chronic pain and other health conditions may cause fatigue, dizziness or sudden flare-ups that make everyday tasks more challenging.
- Travelling to appointments or accessing services – Driving, walking long distances or using public transport can become difficult when pain affects mobility or energy levels.
- Feeling confident at home alone – Concerns about falls, medical emergencies or experiencing a pain flare-up without immediate support can affect confidence and peace of mind.
Accessing the right aged care services can people manage ongoing health conditions through nursing and allied health support, while social support services can make it easier to attend appointments, participate in community activities and feel more confident living at home.
|
Living with a chronic condition?This article explores why having the right support in place can help people stay safe and independent. Read more → |
How can monitored personal alarms help First Nations peoples?
Monitored personal alarms provide a simple and effective way to call for help when needed, with dedicated 24/7 response by trained professional responders.
At a press of a button, help can be arranged quickly — providing reassurance to both the individual and their family.
They can be especially helpful for people who:
- Live alone
- Have a chronic health condition
- Are at risk of falls
- Want added confidence at home or in the community
With MePACS alarms, users have access to:
- A 24/7 Australian-based emergency response team
- Simple, easy-to-use devices
- Ongoing client care and technical support
- Daily Call check in service for peace of mind
- Compassionate, person-centred support that honours the cultural values and community connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Taking the next step towards independent living
Every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person deserves access to support that respects their culture, values and way of life. Whether it's government-funded aged care services, community-led support through NACCHO, or added peace of mind from a monitored personal alarm, the right support can help people stay independent, connected to family and community, and confident living at home. If you or a loved one could benefit from additional support, now is a good time to explore the services available and find the option that best meets your needs.
|
.avif)
%20(1).avif)
.avif)
