Abstracts & Presentation Summaries - Department of Health

the Western Metropolitan Region and some of the learning gained through the
experiences of Carers Victoria and the Victorian Carer Services Network.
For the person they care for many carers want:
The PAG or social support program to be a positive and engaging experience.
This means
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Activities that are relevant to the interests, preferences and history of
the person they care for. There are many examples of these … both
centre and community based.
Responsiveness to the usual routines and needs of the person
needing care.
Trust and communication with staff who form positive, respectful
relationships with each client, and work to understand those with
communication difficulties.
Continuity of care staff as far as possible.
In some circumstances carers want:
o Cultural and language sensitivity; many gains have been made in this
area.
o Confidence in the capacity of staff to support people with dementia or
other challenging conditions.
o Suitable and physically safe facilities.
o Small group, homelike care arrangements for those with confusion or
short term memory loss.
In relation to their own needs many carers want:
Recognition and understanding. This may mean
o Acknowledgment of the expertise they may have.
o Demonstrated understanding of loss and grief issues and difficulties
with transitions.
o Welcoming open door policies.
o Unhurried transitions as necessary.
o Open two-way communication.
o Emotional support when there is conflict between their needs and the
preferences of the person they care for.
o Opportunities for mutual support.
Flexible service models which are responsive to carer needs including:
o Flexible hours of operation- twilight groups, weekend programs, longer
day hours, occasional care at short notice.
o Support for working carers.
o Planned Activity Groups with overnight care capacity.
The achievement of ‘Carer friendly practices’ in planned activity groups, volunteer
social support programs and host family programs will be discussed and illustrated
from the perspective of inclusive policies, practices and procedures at key service
points.
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