Published on: 20th March 2024
Today marks a significant milestone in accessibility for aged care services in Western Australia, as Deaf Connect launches the state’s first Auslan-delivered home care package; Ageing Well.
Ageing Well is an approved provider of in-home care for seniors – funded under the Federal Government’s Home Care Package program, delivering essential aged care services and support to Deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing Australians. With a focus on preserving culture and identity, this program ensures that Deaf seniors receive compassionate care while remaining connected to their language and community. Ageing Well currently operates in Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, and now in Western Australia.
Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey said that the launch of this program in Western Australia represents a significant milestone in the delivery of accessible and culturally relevant home care services for the Deaf community.
“The Ageing Well program encourages active, healthy ageing, ensuring that Deaf seniors remain empowered and connected to their communities. By respecting their identity and culture, we ensure our clients feel valued and understood.
The delivery of this service in Auslan fosters a sense of belonging and connection, preserving their deaf cultural identity. This is an important step in meeting the communication and support needs of Perth seniors, ensuring they maintain their quality of life and wellness.”
– Brett Casey, CEO of Deaf Connect
In November, Deaf Connect hosted two information sessions in Perth to engage with the local community and gather feedback and insights on their needs. The overwhelming response underscored the urgent demand for Auslan home care services in WA. Deaf Connect General Manager for Ageing Well, Dr. Leena Vuorinen, stated that this is the first Home Care Package specifically catered to the needs of Deaf seniors in Perth.
“The goal of the program has always been to ensure seniors can stay in their homes for longer – promoting their independence, nurturing social connections, and sustaining a high quality of life”, Dr. Vuorinen says.
“Empowering seniors in the deaf community involves providing Auslan-based aged care services that prioritise independence, physical well-being, and community support.
By offering tailored care plans, we enable seniors to maintain control over their lives while effectively addressing their physical and emotional needs.Our commitment is to ensure that every Deaf senior can age with dignity, supported by a strong community that celebrates their identity and values their autonomy.”
– Dr Leena Vuorinen, General Manager (Deaf Connect Ageing Well Service)
To celebrate the launch of Ageing Well in Perth, the community was invited to attend an event to learn more about the supports and services offered, connect with the Deaf community, and commemorate this significant occasion on 20th March 2024 at the Osbourne Park Bowling Club in Osbourne Park, WA.
ABOUT DEAF CONNECT
Deaf Connect is the largest whole-of-life service provider and social impact organisation for Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing Australians. We stand with the Deaf community to build capacity and influence social change while paying respect to history, culture and language. We are the largest employer of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Australia, a registered provider under the National Disability Insurance Scheme and an approved provider of in-home care for seniors. Deaf Connect is the country’s largest Auslan interpreting agency and provides training in sign language through our RTO (RTO Provider Number 41192).
