Psycho-geriatric disorders in the spotlight
Federal Minister for the ageing has visited a South Australian aged care facility where a recent death highlighted the need for an investigation into appropriate accomodation for people with psycho-geriatric disorders.
The Minister for Ageing, Ms Justine Elliot has raised the issue of appropriate care for people with significant psycho-geriatric illness. Recent events at Makk & McLeay Nursing Home in Adelaide have highlighted the need for action. On February 28 a death occurred at the facility and a fellow, 85 year old, resident has been charged with murder.
Makk & McLeay is a State government run aged care facility in Adelaide which primarily accommodates older people with dementia. On Friday 28 March, the Federal Minister for Ageing visited Makk & McLeay to see the facility first hand and meet with staff and residents.
On the same day, Minister Elliot met with South Australian Minister for Mental Health, the Honourable Gail Gago, where she pledged to work with the State authorities on the matter.
Mrs Elliot has asked the relevant Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Ageing, Ms Mary Murnane, to consult with experts and providers of psycho-geriatric care including relevant state government providers on psycho-geriatric disorders.
Ms Murnane has been asked to report on “Residential Aged Care and People with Psycho-Geriatric disorders” by mid-May.
