Four organisations representing older Australians are marking Aged Care Employee Day with a special message for Australia's aged care workers, thanking them for the extraordinary dedication, skill and compassion they have brought to their work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Australia, Carers Australia, Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) and Dementia Australia recognise the more than 360,000 aged care workers who provide compassionate, skilled and dignified care to older Australians every single day.
Ian Yates AM, Chief Executive of Council on the Ageing Australia:
"Aged care workers have a uniquely difficult job. We are fortunate to have tens of thousands of aged care workers in Australia who bring more than just skill to their job, but also great kindness and respect for the people in their care.
"Along with all older Australians receiving aged care and their loved ones, I am deeply grateful to the workers who have gone above and beyond to keep them safe and connected during this pandemic.
"The work you do could not be more essential to the wellbeing of our nation. Thank you, today and every day."
Liz Callaghan, CEO of Carers Australia:
"Family and friend carers of the aged have a particular appreciation for aged care employees and the valuable and often demanding role they perform, especially in these difficult times.
"Without them, providing unpaid care to a loved one would be so much harder."
Craig Gear OAM, CEO of The Older Persons Advocacy Network:
"Aged care workers are the backbone of Australia's aged care system.
"Through the strength of the relationships they develop with older people they care for, aged care workers safeguard their health and wellbeing.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected older people, many who have endured being cut off from their families and friends during repeated lockdown periods.
"For some, and particularly during the pandemic, their only contact is with aged care workers, who are doing the best they can under extremely challenging circumstances.
"We thank aged care workers for supporting and caring for older people, in the community and in aged care homes."
Maree McCabe, CEO of Dementia Australia:
"In 2021, there are nearly half a million Australians living with dementia, with many supported by aged care employees.
"Dementia Australia recognises the immense contribution of aged care employees to people living with dementia, their families and carers and the important role they play in their lives.
"On Aged Care Employee Day, and every day, we acknowledge aged care staff for their professionalism, compassion, empathy, dignity and the care they provide."
