Caring for someone who is frail due to age
Australia has an ageing population due the average life expectancy increasing, and an increasing number of people are caring for one or more family members or friends who are becoming frail from ageing.
In 2018, around 1.7 million Australians who are ageing or frail required assistance with at least one everyday activity. Most receive assistance from their family members and friends, often spouses or adult children who are ageing themselves.1
Carers provide a range of support to older Australians. This can include practical care and support, support to navigate aged care services, as well as advocacy and emotional support. Carers are often involved in decision making, health and other assessments, and support planning for the person they care for. Many carers support their loved one to remain living at home and in the community, whilst other carers provide support to a loved one living in residential aged care.
If you are caring for someone who is frail due to age, there are services and supports to help you to look after yourself as well as the person that you are caring for. Taking care of yourself will help you to continue caring.
1 Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2018 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers
Useful services
Carer Gateway - 1800 422 737 (Monday to Friday). Access to supports and services for carers.
My Aged Care - 1800 200 422 (Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 8.00pm, Saturdays 10.00am to 2.00pm). Access to a range of supports and services for older Australians.
Seniors Rights Service - 1800 424 079 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm). Information, support and advocacy for older people, their family members and carers.
Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline - 1800 628 221 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm). Information and support if you are concerned that an older person is being abused, neglected or exploited.
