Who OPAN Supports
OPAN’s services are designed for older Australians who are seeking or currently receiving government-funded aged care. Their support also extends to the families, friends, and other representatives of these individuals. The network aims to empower older people to have their voices heard and to ensure they receive safe, high-quality care that respects their dignity and choices.
Core Services Provided by OPAN
OPAN's work can be divided into two key areas: individual advocacy and systemic advocacy. Both are crucial to improving the aged care system in Australia.
Individual Advocacy
Individual advocacy is at the heart of what OPAN does. An older person or their representative can work with an advocate to address specific issues or concerns related to their aged care services.
An aged care advocate can help with a variety of issues, such as:
- Understanding your rights under the Charter of Aged Care Rights.
- Resolving complaints or disputes with your aged care provider.
- Navigating the aged care system to find services that meet your specific needs.
- Obtaining information on services and fees.
- Supporting you in expressing your needs and preferences to your provider.
- Providing assistance with issues such as elder abuse.
Systemic Advocacy
Beyond individual cases, OPAN uses its gathered data and insights to identify broader trends and systemic issues within the aged care sector. This information is then used to advocate for policy changes and improvements at a national level, influencing government and key aged care stakeholders.
Examples of systemic advocacy include:
- Driving reforms based on findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
- Advising the government on how to improve aged care service delivery and regulation.
- Using a National Older Persons Reference Group to ensure older people are involved in discussions that affect them.
Education and Information Services
OPAN also provides a wide range of educational resources to both older people and aged care providers. These sessions help to increase understanding of rights, responsibilities, and best practices within the aged care system. By empowering individuals with knowledge, OPAN helps to prevent issues before they arise.
How OPAN Delivers its Services
As a national network, OPAN coordinates with nine state and territory-based member organizations to deliver advocacy services across Australia. This model ensures that services can be accessed in metropolitan, regional, rural, and remote areas, providing localized support that understands specific community needs. The independent nature of OPAN, with no membership beyond its service delivery organizations, is a key strength that ensures it is always on the side of the older person it supports.
OPAN vs. Other Advocacy Groups
While other organizations may offer support or information to older adults, OPAN's focus and funding are specifically tied to government-funded aged care in Australia. It works within this specific framework, unlike broader groups like the National Council on Aging (NCOA) in the US or other general disability advocacy networks. This specialized focus allows OPAN to provide deep expertise and targeted support for the complex aged care system.
Comparison of Aged Care Advocacy Support
| Feature | Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) | Other Potential Advocacy Avenues | Other Disability Advocacy (e.g., NDAP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Specifically for government-funded aged care in Australia. | Broader, could cover various topics like health or social security. | Specifically for people with disabilities, not limited by age. |
| Funding | Primarily funded by the Australian Government's National Aged Care Advocacy Program (NACAP). | Varies widely, can be based on membership, private donations, or other grants. | Varies by program, often government-funded for specific disability needs. |
| Cost | Free for older people seeking or receiving aged care. | Can be free, but may involve membership fees or be part of a paid service. | Free for those with disabilities needing advocacy support. |
| Reach | National coverage via a network of state/territory organizations. | Can be local, national, or international, depending on the organization. | National programs, but may be separate from aged care support. |
| Independence | Independent of government and aged care providers, always acting in the best interest of the older person. | Can vary depending on the funding source or political ties. | Independent organizations focused on disability rights and needs. |
Contacting OPAN for Help
Accessing OPAN’s services is straightforward. If you are an older Australian, or a representative acting on their behalf, you can contact the Aged Care Advocacy Line. Advocates are available to listen to your situation and provide independent assistance tailored to your needs. The service is confidential, and the advocate will be guided by what you want and need throughout the process. This ensures you remain in control of the decisions concerning your care.
Conclusion: The Importance of OPAN's Mission
Ultimately, the Older Persons Advocacy Network acts as a vital safeguard for older Australians in the aged care system. By combining individual support with broad-reaching systemic advocacy and education, OPAN works to ensure that the rights and dignity of older people are respected. As the aged care system continues to reform and evolve, OPAN's role in promoting excellence and providing a national voice for consumers remains more important than ever. For older people and their families, it is an essential resource for navigating the complexities of aged care and ensuring a high standard of living. You can find more information about OPAN's mission and services on their official website: OPAN.
