Reform is needed, says aged care CEO

Aged care service providers and care recipients agree that reform in aged care is needed, according to Woy Woy Community Aged Care CEO Ms Jennifer Eddy.

She was speaking after a recent visit by Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mr Mark Butler.

Ms Eddy said that expectations of services now focussed on models of care that allowed for greater flexibility and input from the recipients themselves.

"Expectations are changing, that is why we are upgrading our building, and we were able to show the Minister the extensions that will improve the quality of accommodation available to residents," she said.

"We were pleased to have the opportunity to discuss with the Minister the Productivity Commission's recent recommendations for reform of the aged care sector, and the broad timeframes for implementation of some of the reforms," she said.

On his visit, Mr Butler presented 10-year-old Alicia Karton with a certificate of appreciation.

Alicia visits Woy Woy Community Aged Care each week to spend time with residents.

She said she enjoys spending time there as she missed her great grandfather who died when she was seven years old.

The Minister also presented certificates of attainment to staff who had completed education to support new staff to the facility.

One resident said after the visit: "It was great he came to see us and to hear what he had to say."

Media Release, 31 Aug 2011 Jennifer Eddy, Woy Woy Community Aged Care