Why Culturally Appropriate aged care matters for Perth's multicultural elderly
The culture, language and community should not be forgotten as part of being aged. In Perth, a city home to a rich mix of cultural backgrounds, many elderly residents have difficulty in finding aged care which truly understands them. Elderly migrant residents feel isolated when they lack culturally aware support, especially when facing unfamiliar customs, language gaps at a time when connections matter the most. This is where AfCAS plays a role in elderly life where they advocate for culturally appropriate care and help older people stay connected to their community as they age 🌍 .
AfCAS, the Association for Culturally Appropriate Services, works to promote accountability, access and quality of care for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) seniors in Perth. AfCAS plays a vital advocacy and educational role within the sector rather than approaching aged care directly. This includes providing training for aged care and disability providers on cultural competency, conducting cultural audits and charters for organizations and offering mentoring to help services better reflects the need of different communities. AfCAS makes sure elderly people receive respect for their traditions, beliefs and identity wherever they access it by working with the providers
AfCAS also hosts a Volunteer Visitor Program for conversation, cultural understanding and companionship by pairing community volunteers with elderly people for direct, personal connection beyond their advocacy work. For an elderly individual a frequent visit from a person who truly understands their cultural norms and background could make a huge difference. AfCAS also hosts community event to engage elderly community members. Its recent Lunar New Year celebration where elderly attendees enjoyed music, dance, cultural storytelling that celebrated their heritage, as a result, social isolation one of the most significant challenges facing elderly migrants in Perth was gradually decreased
Whether you are a family member searching for elderly care for your parents respecting their culture and dignity, a service provider who wishes to improve their cultural competence for the betterment of the service or a person who wishes to give back to society through volunteering. AfCAS plays a meaningful role to get involved. Their work highlights supporting elderly is not just meeting the requirements but preserving the culture, dignity and heritage where they feel comfort when they needed it most.
Learn more about the advocacy work, volunteer opportunities and upcoming events by visiting www.afcas.net.
Have you experience Cultural appropriate aged care? We are thrilled to hear your thoughts in comment in below
Whether through cultural events, volunteer visits or celebrating heritage together, AfCAS proves that culturally appropriate care isn’t a luxury but a necessity every elderly person should receive as they grow older.
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(Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University.)
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