Mount Gambier residents took part in an aged care trial recently, in a bid to learn more about a Council on the Ageing program.
COTA SA’s regional tele-support service makes navigating and accessing aged care support a simple process for people and their families – one phone call at a time.
The service, funded by the Country SA Primary Health Network (PHN), supports older people living in country areas to explore and understand the complex aged care system, as well as assists them in becoming aware of relevant, accessible health, well-being, and social support systems within their community so they can live independently for longer.
Led by COTA SA Country Ageing Well Coordinator John Moran, the tele-support service is as simple as making a phone call, with Mr Moran readily available to offer independent advice that simplifies the often complex aged care system and offers the best guidance tailored to each individual’s situation.
“Our regional tele-support service is designed to help South Aussies living alone in regional or rural environments to become aware of what is available to them as they enter their older years,” Mr Moran said.
“We have made it easy for people in regional communities to make informed choices for their future, and also have access to resources that will help them to continue to be independent for as long as possible.
“With the complexities of the aged care system, it is vitally important an independent organisation is available to people to access accurate and easy to understand advice.”
COTA SA’s acting chief executive Miranda Starke said for those living in Mount Gambier, COTA SA hosted one of eight informational hubs as part of their Aged Care Navigator Trial.
The trial helped local residents learn more about My Aged Care while informing COTA’s national care finders program.
“People aged 50+ in country South Australia are more likely to be in poorer health than the same age group in metropolitan Adelaide,” she said.
“Our aged care trials and tele-support services are a part of COTA’s larger scheme to represent this older population.”
To learn more about navigating and understanding the aged care system for older people living in regional South Australia, please get in touch with Mr Moran by calling 1800 182 324.
