Speak Out April 2021

What improvements do you see as necessary into the future? Our current model is under development and evolving with lessons learned and the influence of sector reform. Locally we have identified the need for policy and procedure to manage an older person’s right of risk; this will assist the team to proceed with confidence when balancing risk management and the respect of a person’s autonomy. We are planning broader capacity building of aged care staff in wellness and reablement, including communication partner training for all. Broadly we require increased awareness of the speech pathologist’s role in an older person’s ability to make choices and participate in shared decision making. It’s all the little moments in a day during which a person can be enabled to communicate their needs and preferences; what shirt someone wants to wear, what tv show they want to watch, these are not insignificant but rather accumulate to represent right to choice and control. This is essential to achieve the Royal Commission’s recommendation for a rights-based aged care approach. Culture change doesn’t happen over-night, so we need to continue to advocate for the important role of allied health and celebrate progress. The rights of our older population is a matter for all of us; we need strong leadership and a

Aged care

so that identification and referral to each discipline will be proactive and timely. We have experienced improved job satisfaction ourselves as we are contributing to the wellbeing of older people. We have seen improved independence for people who previously would have received no allied health support. An example of this being an older woman who was completely bed ridden, now walking assisted and able to participate in social activities. This model allows for expanded capacity and sustainability through consistent allied health presence, upskilling of aged care staff and delegation. The goal is allied health as intrinsic to aged care, promoting system wide change; this being a key recommendation from the Aged Care Royal Commission.

passionate workforce ready to adopt change. Kym and Nikki can be contacted at agedcare@ speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

Are you supporting breastfeeding mothers and at times, not sure what to advise? Are you interested in building your knowledge and skills in lactation and breastfeeding?

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The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE ) offers a certification program to health professionals in lactation and breastfeeding Exam eligibility for Speech Pathologists: Pathway 1 • 95 hours of lactation specific education •1000 hours of lactation specific clinical practice ® ®

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Speak Out | April 2021