A recent case study demonstrates how GPs can support vulnerable older Australians with the support of specialist care finder knowledge.
When Amity Health’s care finder team first met John, he was living alone in an empty unit, surrounded by boxes. He was lonely, bored and not eating properly.
John had memory issues, regularly presenting at ED, and estranged from family.
John had no shower, didn’t wash his clothes or have any bed linen. He had no phone.
One of the first care finder task was to link John in with a GP. That relationship has flourished and led to life altering improvements. After a health assessment, referrals flowed to the Geriatrician, Older Adult Mental Health and ACAT teams. The care finder supported all appointments and became the primary contact, not only for the GP, but also for My Aged Care and ED. This team centred approach ensured the client didn’t slip through the gaps.
The care finder went further, managing Centrelink appointments, tenancy issues and supporting an application to the State Administrative Tribunal. This enabled the client to pay accommodation fees and provide for daily living expenses.
Amity Health CEO Robin Surridge says, ‘This case study is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through primary health care when the GP and care finder program work together to support our most vulnerable clients.’
John has been assigned a Home Care Package to enable a gentle introduction of services and supports and gain trust. The care finder is also working towards his dream of returning home to the place of his birth.
care finders support senior Australians who are not able to arrange services without intensive support and do not have a family member or friends who can help. WA’s care finders service organisations form part of the national network of care finders who support improved integration between the health, aged care and other systems at the local level.
Find out more about care finders in WA