Are you maximising support and advocacy from OPAN?

If the aged care system feels confusing at times, you’re not alone, especially when major reforms affect multiple aspects of the system all at once. From new fees and caps, to new programs and service categories, there’s a lot for older people, their families and supporters to navigate.

And whilst we are always here to guide and support you with any questions, we understand that there are times when you may feel more comfortable speaking to an independent advocate instead.

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) helps older people understand their rights, navigate any sector changes, prepare for conversations, and feel confident in raising questions in partnership with your provider. OPAN’s services are free, confidential, and completely independent from both government and aged care providers.

As well as advocacy services, OPAN offers a wide range of educational material in the form of printed resources, live webinars and on-demand videos you can access from the comfort of your own home. Here are just a few examples:

• Self-advocacy toolkits and checklists in 9 languages, to assist in raising concerns and speaking up for better care
• Questions to ask during a hospital stay regarding options for urgent assessments for more help at home, so that you do not feel pressured to go into residential care
• Understanding your rights in relation to the new Aged Care Act

If you would like to talk things over with a professional aged care advocate, visit the website below:

https://opan.org.au/

Ph: 1800 700 600

We also welcome your feedback or complaints at

any time, so please let us know if there is anything troubling you that we can assist with.