Population sub-groups

Ageing

This section is being restructured. Currently, some of the sub-headings listed here may not link to the related sub-section as relevant information is not yet available. However, as we continue to develop this page, the links will become active progressively.

What do we know about the ageing population?

The following summary is still under development. Available information is provided below.

Around the world, populations are ageing due to declining fertility rates and increasing life expectancy. The growing numbers of older people have raised concerns regarding the societal, economic, and health consequences of ageing. Of particular concern is the anticipated increase in costs associated with the care and support of a growing aged population. As people age, they become more vulnerable to ill-health and become more dependent on government benefits [2]. As the population aged 65 years and over increases in size and proportion, associated social expenditures on income support, care and health services can be expected to increase [3].


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Australia's ageing population

Like many other countries in the western world, Australia's total population is ageing, and older people represent a growing number and percentage of the society [4]. The proportion of the Australian population aged 65 years and over has risen steadily over the past two decades and is projected to rise further over the next 50 years. The major contributors to population ageing in Australia are: large numbers of ageing 'baby boomers', increased life expectancy, and declining fertility rates.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has reported marked increases in life expectancy. In 1998, the average life expectancy for Australian men was 75.9 years; for Australian women it was 81.5. years. In comparison, figures calculated for the period 1901-1910 are 55.2 years and 58 years respectively [5]. Increased life expectancy for both men and women has led to growing numbers of people surviving well into old age, and a shift in the age structure of the total population, commensurate with gradual population ageing [9]. In 1901, there were 151,000 people aged 65 years and over living in Australia (4% of the total Australian population). By 1999, this number had increased to 2.3 million (12% of the total population) [6].

Projections show that the observed ageing of the Australian population is set to continue [7]. The proportion of the population aged 65 years and over is projected to rise from around 12% today to 18% by the year 2021, to 25% by the year 2051 [1]. Record rates of increase in the population aged 65 years and over are likely between 2011 and 2021 as the peak of the baby-boom generation (post World War 2) reaches retirement age [8]. During this period, the population aged 65 years and over is projected to grow from 3 to 5 million.

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Health consequences for Australia's ageing population

Ageing populations are due, at least in part, to increasing life expectancy, due to declining death rates (frequently related to behavioural changes, such as dietary improvements, reduced smoking and increased physical activity). However, reductions in mortality do not translate into similar reductions in morbidity and ageing is generally accompanied by ill-health. Ageing is associated with a higher prevalence of certain health conditions including: arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, dementia, and renal disease. Chronic conditions become more common with increasing age and older people often require ongoing support and assistance in daily living.

In 1995, 90% of older people had experienced a recent illness, and virtually all (99%) reported at least one long-term condition (most commonly sight and hearing loss) [2]. The most common recent illnesses were 'fluid problems' (11%), headaches (9%), insomnia (9%), dental problems (7%), hypertension (5%) and nerves, tension and nervousness (5%) [9]. The four most common long-term conditions reported by older people were eye problems (including problems corrected by glasses) (96%), arthritis (49%), hypertension (38%) and ear or hearing problems (32%) [9]. In 1998, just over half (54%) of all older people had a disability [2]. About 25% of older women and 16% of older men had a disability associated with profound or severe restriction in mobility, communication or self-care [13], causing difficulties with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, getting out of a chair or bed, walking, using public transport or communicating with others.

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Summary of ageing among Indigenous people

This summary is currently under development. Limited information regarding the Indigenous age structure is provided below.

The age structure of the total Australian population differs markedly from that of the Indigenous Australian population. Children represent a much greater proportion of the Indigenous population and there are relatively few old people. Unlike the population structure of the broader Australian population, the young age structure evident in the Indigenous population more closely resembles patterns observed in developing countries.

Projections for the Indigenous population raise concerns about the persistence of health inequalities in Indigenous communities. In 1996, 3% of Indigenous people were aged 65 years and over compared with 12% of the total Australian population [10]. In 2006, the proportion of older Indigenous people is projected to be at the same level (3%), while the proportion of older people in the total Australian population is expected to rise to 13% [11]. The comparatively youthful Indigenous age structure is largely a product of high rates of fertility and mortality within the Indigenous population [10]. The lower proportion of older Indigenous people reflects their lower life expectancy. Life expectancy of Indigenous people at birth is 15-20 years lower than that of non-Indigenous Australians [13], in the period 1991-1996 it was about 57 years for males and 62 years for females [12].

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References

1. Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, Ageing gracefully: an overview of the economic implications of Australia's ageing population profile. 2000, Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care: Canberra.
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics, ABS report profiles Australia's older people, Catologue no. 4109.0. 2000.
3. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australian social trends:1999; Population Projections: Our ageing population. 1999: Canberra.
4. Posner, R.A., Ageing and old age. 1995, Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
5. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Population; Deaths. 2000: Canberra.
6. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Population age-sex structure, Catologue no. 3201.0. 2000: Canberra.
7. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Population projections. 2000: Canberra.
8. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Disability and ageing: Australian population patterns and implications. 2000, Canberra: AIHW.
9. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australian social trends 1999; Health Status: Health of older people. 1999: Canberra.
10. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Indigenous population. 2000: Canberra.
11. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia's older population: past, present and future. 1999: Canberra.
12. Van Krieken, R., et al., Sociology themes and perspectives 2nd Edition. 2000, French's Forest, NSW: Pearson Education Australia Pty Limited.
13. Australian Bureau of Statistics, Disability, ageing and carers, Australia: summary of finding, 1998. 2000: Canberra.


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Policies and Strategies

Currently no information available.

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Health promotion resources

Darebin Community Health: pamphlets series

Darebin Community Health, in Victoria, has produced a series of five pamphlets providing information about the services they deliver. They are titled:

  • About occupational therapy
  • Having problems with your feet? We can help you
  • Kookaburra social club
  • Planned activity groups for older people, and people with disabilities and their carers
  • Your sight is precious. The optometrist can help

The pamphlets give basic information about who would benefit from the services and why, and provide photos of the service providers.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

For more information about the services or the pamphlets contact: Darebin Community Health, East Preston Site, 125 Blake Street, East Reservoir VIC 3073, ph: (03) 8470 1111, fax: (03) 8470 1107, email: info@dch.org.au, website: http://www.darebinch.com.au

Palliative care resource kit

National Palliative Care Program (2004)
Providing culturally appropriate palliative care to Indigenous Australians. Resource kit.
Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing as part of its National Palliative Care Program, this resource kit has been developed to support the provision of palliative care to Indigenous patients, their families and communities, and to encourage service providers to examine their practice for cultural appropriateness. The kit is the result of direct consultation with palliative care providers and Indigenous people and communities throughout Australia. It contains a folder with information addressing: an introduction to the kit; practice principles; use of the resource; discussion paper; and course information. A CD-ROM is also included and contains additional information relating to cultural safety, cultural diversity, and practice examples.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

For further information about the resource kit or to obtain copies contact: Rural Health and Palliative Care Branch; Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing; GPO Box 9848; Canberra ACT 2601; ph: 1800 020 787; fax: (02) 6289 9295; website: http://www.palliativecare.gov.au

Palliative care for Indigenous people and Aboriginal health workers and chronic disease management [CD-ROM]

Rural Health Education Foundation (2005)
Palliative care for Indigenous people and Aboriginal health workers and chronic disease management. [CD-ROM]
Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing

This CD-ROM has been developed by the Rural Health Education Foundation and sponsored by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing. It contains two broadcasts:

Palliative care for Indigenous people was broadcasted 15 June 2004 and runs for 63 minutes. The program examines barriers experienced by Indigenous people in accessing appropriate palliative care, and provides an insight into how Indigenous people and communities deal with issues of grief and loss.

Aboriginal Health workers and chronic disease management was broadcasted 29 June 2004 and runs for 51 minutes. The program examines how Aboriginal health workers, general practitioners, and other health professionals can contribute to chronic disease detection and management through early detection, risk factor management, programs, and primary care activities.

Australian HealthInfoNet abstract

To obtain copies of the CD-ROM contact: Rural Health Education Foundation, Unit 5, 53 Dundas Court, Phillip ACT 2606, postal address: PO Box 219, Mawson ACT 2607, ph: (02) 6232 5480, fax: (02) 6232 5484, email: rhef@rhef.com.au, website: http://www.rhef.com.au

Protect yourself, your elders, and your community. Get immunised now: poster

The Department of Health and Ageing and the Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (OATSIH) have produced an updated general practitioner fact sheet and a poster about the National Indigenous Pneumococcal and Influenza Immunisation Program (NIPII) 2004.

Jean Merritt (Ngunawal Elder) and Amanda Allan (a Bunjalung woman) have lent their support to the immunisation program and appear on the poster. The poster is A3 size, outlines the importance of pneumococcal and influenza vaccination, and identifies those who should be immunised because of increased risk of illness.

Copies of these resources can be downloaded from the OATSIH website.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

For further information about the program or for copies of the fact sheet and poster contact: Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, MDP 17, Department of Health and Ageing, GPO Box 9848, Canberra ACT 2601, ph: (02) 6289 5291, fax: (02) 6289 1412.

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Case studies

Currently no information available.

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Published resources

Journal articles

2008

Lindeman MA, Pedler RP (2008)
Assessment of Indigenous older people’s needs for home and community care in remote Central Australia.
Journal of cross-cultural gerontology;17
View abstract: PubMed
View website: PubMed

2007

Jamieson LM, Roberts-Thomson KF (2007)
Hospitalized head injuries among older people in Australia, 1998/1999 to 2004/2005.
Injury Prevention;13:243-247
View abstract: PubMed
View website: National Center for Biotechnology Information

McGrath P (2007)
‘I don’t want to be in that big city; this is my country here': research findings on Aboriginal peoples' preference to die at home.
Australian Journal of Rural Health;15(4):264-268
View abstract: Australian Journal of Rural Health
View website: Blackwell Synergy

Sullivan D (2007)
The Graniators support group program.
Promotion and Education ;14(2):80-81
View abstract: PubMed
View website: National Center for Biotechnology Information

Warburton J, Chambers B (2007)
Older Indigenous Australians: their integral role in culture and community.
Australasian Journal on Ageing;26(1):3-7
View abstract: Australasian Journal on Ageing
View website: Blackwell Synergy (Blackwell Publishing)

2006

McGrath C (2006)
'The biggest worry..': research findings on pain management for Aboriginal peoples in Northern Territory, Australia.
Rural and Remote Health;6(3):Article 269.
Available from http://www.rrh.org.au/home/defaultnew.asp
 View article: Rural and Remote Health (HTML)
View article: Rural and Remote Health (PDF - 442KB)

McGrath P, Patton MA, Holewa H, Rayner R (2006)
The importance of the 'family meeting' in health care communication with Indigenous people: findings from an Australian study.
Australian Journal of Primary Health;12(1):56-64
View abstract: Australian Journal of Primary Health (PDF - 64KB)
View website: Australian Journal of Primary Health

2005

Schutte AE, Shemesh T, Rowley K, Best JD, McDermott R, O'Dea, K (2005)
The metabolic syndrome and changing relationship between blood pressure and insulin with age, as observed in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Diabetic Medicine;22(11):1589-1597
View abstract: Diabetic Medicine (HTML)

2004

Dance P, Brown R, Bammer G, Sibthorpe B (2004)
Aged care services for Indigenous people in the Australian Capital Territory and surrounds: analysing needs and implementing change.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health;28(6):579-583
View article: Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health (PDF - 48KB)
View website: Public Health Association of Australia

2002

Baigrie N (2002, 25 January)
Sharing an Aboriginal aged care quality assessor's journey.
Australian Indigenous HealthBulletin, 2(1), Brief report 1. Retrieved [access date] from
http://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/html/html_bulletin/bull_21/brief_reports/bulletin_briefreports_journey.htm
View document

2001

Australian Indigenous HealthInfonet
Gaining aged care accreditation standards: the Guwardi Ngadu experience.
Australian Indigenous HealthBulletin;1(2): Brief report 1.
View brief report: HealthBulletin

Cooper G (2001, 8 November)
Gaining aged care accreditation standards: the Guwardi Ngadu experience.
Australian Indigenous HealthBulletin, 1(2), Brief report 1. Retrieved [access date] from
http://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/html/html_bulletin/bull_12/brief_reports/bulletin_brief_reports.htm
View document

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Reports and publications

2007

Alzheimer's Australia (2007)
Dementia: a major health problem for Indigenous people: briefing prepared for Parliamentary Friends of Dementia.
Hawkwers, ACT: Alzheimer's Australia
View report (PDF - 169KB)
View website: Alzheimer’s Australia

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2007)
Dementia in Australia: national data analysis and development.
Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
View report (PDF - 1.81MB -large file warning!)
View website Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

Department of Health and Ageing (2007)
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flexible aged care program: service provider guidelines, final draft.
Canberra: Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing
View report (HTML)
View report (PDF – 81.9KB)
View website: Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing

2006

ACT Health, Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service ACT Inc (2006)
A new way: the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and family wellbeing plan 2006 - 2011.
Canberra: ACT Health
View abstract: HealthBulletin
View report (PDF - 1.0 MB - large file warning!)
View website: ACT Health

Alzheimer's Australia NT, University of Western Australia, National Ageing Research Institute (2006)
Validation of the Kimberley Indigenous Cognitive Assessment Tool (KICA) in rural and remote Indigenous communities of the Northern Territory.
Hawker, ACT: Alzheimer's Australia
View report (PDF - 1.1MB - large file warning!)
View website: Alzheimer’s Australia

Eureka Strategic Research (2006)
Asthma awareness communication initiative: developmental research.
Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing
View report (PDF - 449KB)
View website: Department of Health and Ageing

2005

Northern Territory Department of Health and Community Services (2005)
Aged and Disability Services 2005/2006.
Darwin: Northern Territory Department of Health and Community Services
View report (PDF - 90KB)
View report (HTML)
View website: Northern Territory Department of Health and Community Services

2004

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2004)
Australia's health 2004: the ninth biennial report of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
View abstract: HealthBulletin
View report: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (PDF - 5.7MB - large file warning!)
View website: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

McGrath P, Watson J, Derschow B, Murphy S, Rayner R (2004)
Indigenous palliative care service delivery: a living model.
Darwin: Centre for Social Science Research, School of Nursing and Health, Central Queensland University
View abstract: HealthBulletin
View report (PDF - 1.57MB - large file warning!)
View website: Research – Dr Pam McGrath

2002

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2002)
Older Australia at a glance.
Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
The third edition of Older Australia at a glance provides insights into the diversity of the older population of Australia at the beginning of the 21st century, where they are living, what they are doing, how healthy they are and the services they are using.
The sub-section on Special groups has a specific section on Indigenous people.
View document Part (2): (PDF - 1.2MB - large file warning!)

2001

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2001)
Community aged care packages in Australia 1999-00: a statistical overview.
Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Presents key statistics on the levels of service provision of the Commonwealth-funded Community Aged Care Packages program. Includes a sub-section on multi-purpose services and services receiving flexible funding under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Strategy.
View document (PDF - 215KB)

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2001)
Residential aged care in Australia 1999-00: a statistical overview.
Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Provides comprehensive statistical information on residential aged care homes and their residents. Includes comparative statistics for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
View document (PDF - 379KB

2000

Australian Bureau of Statistics (2000)
Older people, New South Wales 2000.
Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Presents information about people aged 65 and over living in New South Wales. Chapter 1 contains specific information about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population.
View download/purchase details

Dance P, Brown R, Bammer G, Sibthorpe B (2000)
Needs for residential aged care and other services by the older Indigenous population in the ACT and Region.
Canberra: National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health.
View abstract: HealthBulletin
View document (PDF - 721KB)

Department of Aboriginal Affairs (2000)
New South Wales Aboriginal seniors yarn-up.
Sydney: Department of Aboriginal Affairs.
View document (PDF - 1.96MB - large file warning!)

Prior to 2000

Australian Bureau of Statistics (1999)
Older people, Australia: a social report.
Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Presents information about people aged 65 and over living in Australia, including findings for older Indigenous Australians.
View main findings
View download/purchase details

Gibson D, Benham C, Racic L, eds. (1999)
Older Australia at a glance.
Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Provides an overview of the health, wellbeing and social circumstances of older Australians and their health and welfare services. Includes a sub-section on Indigenous Australians.
View document (PDF - 424KB)
View purchase details

Profile of older people in Queensland: older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Department of Families, Youth and Community Care, Office of Ageing, Queensland Government
View document (PDF)

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Theses

Currently no information available.

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Health promotion resources

2004

Palliative Care for Indigenous People
Funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing, this program aims to increase awareness of the cultural and medical issues of particular relevance to the palliative care of Indigenous Australians. It seeks to expand the knowledge of health professionals about how Indigenous people deal with death, dying, grief and breavement and, in so doing, to increase the access and understanding for Indigneous people of palliative care services. More generally, the program provides health professionals with details of the current resources and training opportunites useful for breaking down the barriers that prevent Indigneous people from effectively accessing appropriate palliative care.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

National Continence Management Strategy (2004)
Continence in Indigenous communities: a series of resources.
Canberra: Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing

As part of the National Continence Management Strategy, an Australian government initiative, the Department of Health and Ageing has revised and reprinted a long-running series of resources about continence in Indigenous communities:

  • Looking after our people. National Continence Management Strategy (flipchart)
  • The continence gang. Stories of gaining control over bladder and bowels (comic book)
  • Continence: myths and facts (brochure)

All resources are colourfully illustrated with Indigenous artwork. The flipchart provides information about the national strategy. The comic book makes information about incontinence - the problems and the solutions - accessible to Indigenous Australians. The brochure presents the facts in plain language, and provides contacts for accessing help and treatment.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

For further information about any of these resources or to obtain copies contact: National Continence Management Strategy, Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing, MDP 32, GPO Box 9848, Canberra ACT 2601, email: Continence.Strategy@health.gov.au.

web: http://www.bladderbowel.gov.au/ncms/default.htm

Palliative care resource kit
National Palliative Care Program (2004)
Providing culturally appropriate palliative care to Indigenous Australians. Resource kit.
Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing as part of its National Palliative Care Program, this resource kit has been developed to support the provision of palliative care to Indigenous patients, their families and communities, and to encourage service providers to examine their practice for cultural appropriateness. The kit is the result of direct consultation with palliative care providers and Indigenous people and communities throughout Australia. It contains a folder with information addressing: an introduction to the kit; practice principles; use of the resource; discussion paper; and course information. A CD-ROM is also included and contains additional information relating to cultural safety, cultural diversity, and practice examples.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

For further information about the resource kit or to obtain copies contact: Rural Health and Palliative Care Branch; Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing; GPO Box 9848; Canberra ACT 2601; ph: 1800 020 787; fax: (02) 6289 9295; website: http://www.palliativecare.gov.au

Other information

Australia

Australasian Journal on Ageing
Council on the Ageing (Australia).
The journal covers social gerontology, home and community services, health services research, geriatric medicine and biology of ageing. It provides research papers, opinion articles, professional practice updates, innovations in aged care and book reviews. Previously the Australian Journal on Ageing, it is published quarterly by the Council on the Ageing (Australia). The journal's website includes a table of contents from 1998, instructions to authors, and subscription and contact details.
View resource

Healthy ageing, quality ageing
Funded by the Victorian Department of Human Services, VicHealth and NSW Health, this site is designed to provide reliable information about ageing. It includes FAQs, factsheets, and links; and information on projects, resources, programs, and healthy ageing.
View resource

International Year of Older Persons (1999)
An initiative for the International Year of Older Persons, this site was funded by the New South Wales Ageing and Disability Department with assistance from Families, Youth and Community Care Queensland. It provides information on ageing and education resources and offers 'a new look at ageing' that recognises the contribution needs and aspirations of all generations.
View resource

Older Aboriginals in South Australia
This factsheet was prepared jointly by the Department of Human Services and the South Australian Network for Research on Ageing as an initiative of the 1999 International Year of Older Persons.
View resource (PDF)


Seniors Information Service (South Australia)
Provides information on health, housing and lifestyle for seniors, their families and carers.
View resource

International

GeroWeb virtual library on ageing (USA)
Presented by the Institute of Gerontology, GeroWeb is an online resource for researchers, educators, practitioners, and older individuals. It contains information for those interested in gerontology, geriatrics, the process of aging, services for the elderly, or the concerns of senior citizens in general.
View resource

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Conference proceedings and presentations

2001

Showcasing Excellence: 14th National Aged and Community Care Conference
30 September - 3 October 2001, Cairns, Queensland
View information

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Programs and projects

Aged and Disability Care Program
Nganampa Health Council.
This program commenced in 1995 after wide consultation with Anangu and development of an aged and disability care strategy.
View document (PDF)

Community Aged Care Packages
Funded by the Commonwealth Government, Community Aged Care Packages provide for the complex care needs of older people. They are planned and coordinated packages of care to help older people with moderate or severe disabilities to remain living in their own homes.
View information

Home and Community Care (HACC) Program
A joint Commonwealth State Government program, HACC is a central element of the Federal Government's aged care policy.
The program provides community care services to frail aged and younger people with disabilities, and their carers. The aim of the HACC program is to enhance the independence of people in these groups and avoid their premature or inappropriate admission to long term residential care.
View information

SANRA Research Directory project list
South Australian Network for Research on Ageing.
The SANRA Research Directory (2000) is a detailed list of current research projects relating to ageing in South Australia. You can search the directory for key words and authors or browse the entire document. If you are involved in a research project you can fill out a form requesting to have it included in the directory.
View directory
Indigenous ageing projects include:
Indigenous aged care better
View information
Medication management by Aboriginal people with mental health disorders such as dementia and alcohol related brain injury, their carers and other family members: a collaborative project
View information
Meeting together (Inbarendi): working toward a collaborative approach to Aboriginal health
View information
Towards Aboriginal longevity, factors contributing to premature ageing in the South Australian Aboriginal population
View information

Torres Strait Healthy Ageing Program
Queensland Government, 14 June 2001.
View media release

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Guidelines

Community care packages. Program guidelines
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide information and guidance to Community Care Package providers and Departmental staff in relation to the operation of projects under the Aged Care Act 1997 ('the Act'). The guidelines also aim to provide a plain English explanation of the legislation, including the Principles made under the Act.
View guidelines

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References

Key references

  • Australian Council on the Ageing. (1988). Aboriginal people and ageing: ACOTA's submission to the National Aboriginal Health Strategy Working Party. Melbourne: Australian Council on the Ageing.
  • Barnes, A., Ballantyne, A., & Burden, J. (1998). Towards Aboriginal longevity: health and ageing in the Aboriginal population of South Australia. Adelaide: Aboriginal Research Institute, Faculty of Nursing, University of South Australia.
  • Brandl, M.M. (1980). Wuluguman and Wulman. Notes on the aged in Aboriginal society. Canberra: Centre for Resource and Environmental Studies, Australian National University.
  • Crowe, M. (1996). Health promotion needs of older Aboriginal people. Australian Journal on Ageing, 15(1), 11-13.
  • Dance, P., Brown, R., Bammer, G., & Sibthorpe, B. (2000). Needs for residential aged care and other services by the older Indigenous population in the ACT and Region. Canberra: National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health.
  • de Crespigny, C., Grbich, C., & Watson, J. (1998). Older Aboriginal women's experiences of medications in urban South Australia. Australian Journal of Primary Health - Interchange, 4(4), 6-17.
  • Dickson, G., & Green, K.L. (2001). Participatory action research: lessons learned with Aboriginal grandmothers. Health care for Women International, 22(5), 471-482.
  • Divakaran-Brown, C. (1985). Premature ageing in the Aboriginal community. Proc Annu Conf Aust Assoc Gerontol, 20, 33-34.
  • Jackson, D., Teale, G., Bye, R., McCallum, J., & Stein, I. (1999). Postacute care for older Aboriginal people: an exploratory-descriptive study. Australian Journal of Rural Health, 7(1, Feb 1999), 53-59.
  • Kouris-Blazos, A., & Wahlqvist, M. (2000). Indigenous Australian food culture on cattle stations prior to the 1960s and food intake of older Aborigines in a community studied in 1988. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 9(3), 224.
  • Kurnoth, P., & Hall, D. (1993/1994). Providing services to Aboriginal people with memory problems and their carers. Australian Nursing Journal, 1, 24-26.
  • Long, L.N., Ross, C.J., Williams, M.N., Barker, R.N., Martin, A.N., Stoll, K.N., Long, J.N., Ross, R.J., Dickson, T.J., & Urban, M.N. (1994). A good life for old and disabled people in remote Aboriginal communities. Aboriginal and Islander Health Worker Journal, 18(6), 4-5.
  • Mokak, R. (1999). Indigenous peoples and the HACC Program. Paper presented at the International Homecare & HACC Australia Conference, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Brisbane, Queensland , 29 March - 1 April, 1999.
  • Paddy, M., Ducasse, E., Arch, M., & McManus, D. (1999). Developing a service for older people in a remote Aboriginal community: Nganampa Health Council Aged and Disability Care Program. Paper presented at the International Homecare & HACC Australia Conference, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Brisbane, Queensland , 29 March - 1 April, 1999.
  • Pollitt, P.A. (1997). The problem of dementia in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities: an overview. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 12(2), 155-163.
  • Reid, J., Yunupingu, L., & Yunupingu, D. (1978). Caring for the aged and dying in an Australian Aboriginal community. Australasian Nurses Journal, 7(12), 22-6.
  • Stokes, M. (1988). We the forgotten elders: an overview of Aboriginal aged needs in the Perth metropolitan area. Perth: West Australian Council on the Ageing.
  • Tsey, K., Morrish, S., Lucas, A., & Boffa, J. (1998). Training in aged care advocacy for primary health care workers in central Australia: an evaluation. Australian Journal on Ageing, 17(4), 167-171.
  • Ward, N., & Gerrish, G. (1998). Torres Strait Islander people with disabilities. Consultation report: older Indigenous Australians with long term disability. Alice Springs: Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Women's Council Aboriginal Corporation.
  • Woenne-Green, S. (1995). They might have to drag me like a bullock: the Tjilpi Pampa Tjutaku project: the rights, needs and care options of the senior men and women of the Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara communities in the cross-border regions of central Australia. Alice Springs: Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Women's Council Aboriginal Corporation.

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Bibliography

Currently no information available.

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Organisations

Commonwealth government agencies

Aged and Community Care Division
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.
Detailed information regarding community aged care packages, nursing homes and hostels, and home and community care (HACC) service.
View website

Aged Care Complaints Resolution Scheme
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.
The scheme is a free and independent service run by the Department of Health and Ageing to resolve complaints raised by residents of nursing homes and hostels, and those receiving community aged care packages.
View information


Office for Older Australians
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.
View website

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State and Territory government agencies

Australian Capital Territory

ACT Community Care
Provides a range of services to meet the special needs of older people.
View information

New South Wales

Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care
This new Department brings together the former Ageing & Disability Department with the Department of Community Services' Disability Services function.
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NSW Health
The Health for older people web page covers a range of health issues for older people in Australia. It provides information on resources, publications and related links.
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Northern Territory

Aged Disability and Community Care (ADCC)
Department of Health and Community Services.
Aged Disability and Community Care (ADCC) provides funding for services to older people and people with a disability in the NT. Although delivered largely through the non-government sector, the Department of Health and Community Services (DHCS) is also responsible for some service provision.
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Queensland

HACC Resource Unit
Queensland Health.
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Seniors Interests Branch
Department of Families.
This site provides a range of speical interest information for seniors which promotes opportunities for independence and choice for older Queenslanders.
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South Australia

Office for the Ageing
Department of Human Services.
Information on the Office's objectives, programs and contact details.
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Tasmania

Aged Care Rehabilitation Unit
Department of Health and Human Services.
The Aged Care Rehabilitation Unit (ACRU) provides assessment and rehabilitation services for older people living in the Community.
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Victoria

Aged Care and Community Health Branch
Department of Human Services
Information on Victorian State Government aged care services
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Home and Community Care (HACC)
Department of Human Services.
Information about Victoria's HACC Program.
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Western Australia

Office of Seniors Interests
Department for Community Development
Information on major initiatives, publications, research, and community information.
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Non-government organisations

Advocare Incorporated
An advocate for the rights of people living in aged care facilities; people receiving community care services; and those who are eligible for them.
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Aged and Community Services Australia
The national peak body representing church and charitable organisations providing aged care services.
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Aged Care Queensland Incorporated
Association of organisations concerned with providing care and accommodation services to aged or disabled Queenslanders.
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Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency
An independent body responsible for managing the accreditation process and ongoing supervision and support for aged care homes in Australia.
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Carers Association Australia
A non-profit organisation committed to improving the lives of carers. Carers Australia is the national peak carer organisation with eight member organisations - the Carers Associations in each state and territory.
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Council on the Ageing (COTA)
COTA is an independent organisation which promotes and protects the well being of older people.
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Independent Living Centre of Queensland
A community organisation providing information and professional advice for people with disabilities to aid independent living. The Mobile Independent Living Centre provides services and support to Indigenous communities.
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Research bodies and institutes

Australian Association of Gerontology
The Australian Association of Gerontology undertakes: research on ageing; networking; education; policy development.
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Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
The objective of AIHW's Aged Care Unit is to inform community debate and public policy making in the area of aged care by timely research, analysis and publication. Website information covers: Home and Community Care; residential aged care; Community Aged Care Packages; services in rural and remote areas; and publications.
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Centre for Education and Research on Ageing (CERA)
A joint centre of the University of Sydney Department of Medicine and Concord Repatriation General Hospital, a unit of Central Sydney Area Health Service.
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National Ageing Research Institute
Undertakes medical research (biological, clinical and service delivery) into the causes and consequences of ageing and its social accompaniments.
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South Australian Network for Research on Ageing (SANRA)
The SANRA website includes factsheets, reports, occasional papers, and a research directory.
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Professional associations and societies

Australian Nursing Homes and Extended Care Association Ltd (ANHECA)
Tthe Federal Association providing representation of private, church and charitable run nursing homes and hostels at a national level.
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Australian Society for Geriatric Medicine
A society of medical practitioners engaged in the practice of Geriatric Medicine or related disciplines. The site includes information on policy development, education and research.
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Other information available on the internet

Links

Australia

Ageing and community care links provided by the:
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing
Government of South Australian
South Australian Network for Research on Ageing

Aged Care Australia
This new website created by The Department of Health and Ageing aims to make access to information and services for aged care easier. A special feature is the My Page section where people can share, store and exchange experiences, information and ideas.
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International

Age Concern New Zealand Incorporated
Provides information on policy, projects, services and realted links.
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Alzheimer's Association (USA)
Information for people with alzheimers, their family caregivers and friends, physicians and health care professionals, researchers, and the media
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Centre for Policy on Ageing (UK)
An independent research centre, its objective is to inform and influence service providers. The site includes publications and searchable databases.
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Last updated: 23 May 2008