Aged Care Employee Day 7th August

Aged Care Employee Day – August 7, 2024

Aged Care Employee Day

Aged Care Employee Day is on August 7 each year and honors those who care for the elderly. It takes a lot of skill, patience, and kindness to care for older people. This day thanks nurses, care workers, drivers, chefs, cleaners, and volunteers who make sure seniors get the help and companionship they need.

History of Aged Care Employee Day

Whiddon, an Australian aged care provider, started Aged Care Employee Day in 2018 to recognize those who care for seniors across the country.

Many people may not like the idea of putting their elderly loved ones in a care facility. However, it might be necessary if their medical needs are too much to handle at home. When choosing a facility, it’s important to ensure it can provide excellent care, thanks to the workers who create a warm and welcoming environment for seniors.

Whiddon created Aged Care Employee Day because other days, like International Nurses Day, didn’t fully acknowledge the hard work of elder care workers. Many aged care workers are not just nurses but also janitors, kitchen staff, laundry workers, and volunteers who choose to care for seniors out of kindness. Their roles are crucial for the smooth running of aged care facilities.

Leading Age Services Australia helped make Aged Care Employee Day an official holiday in 2019, emphasizing the importance of honoring these workers who support the country’s seniors in their retirement. In a fast-changing world, the efforts of young workers ensure that senior citizens do not feel left behind.

Aged Care Employee Day timeline

Aged Care Employee Day FAQs

What do aged care workers do?

Aged care workers have several key duties, including:

Helping clients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Assisting with grocery shopping and laundry.
Providing medical and emotional support.
Keeping in touch with the client’s family.
Planning social and recreational activities for clients.

How much do aged care workers earn in Australia?

As of 2022, aged care workers in Australia typically earn about $55,400 per year, or $28.41 per hour. Beginners usually make around $53,313 annually, while those with more experience can earn up to $68,071 a year. Pay can vary depending on the workplace and location.

What do I need to work in aged care in Australia?

To work in aged care, you need to complete a Certificate III in Individual Support or a Certificate IV in Ageing Support from a local TAFE. Additionally, you must have First Aid Certification and pass Police Checks. Volunteering at senior care facilities can also help you gain relevant experience.

How to Observe Aged Care Employee Day

1. Show appreciation to aged care workers

A simple “thank you” and some encouragement can mean a lot to aged care workers. Whether in person or online, expressing your gratitude acknowledges the hard work they do in caring for seniors and reminds them of the positive impact they have. You can also use the hashtags #ThanksForCaring and #AgedCareEmployeeDay in your social media posts to join in.

2. Volunteer at a retirement home

If your local retirement home needs volunteers, consider offering your help. Volunteering, whether daily or weekly, can make a big difference in the lives of the residents, and your time will be greatly appreciated.

3. Spend time with elderly loved ones

Show your grandparents or other senior loved ones that they are important to you by spending quality time with them. A thoughtful gift is also a nice way to show you care.

5 Facts About Aged Care In Australia

1. The government spends billions on senior care
Around $19.9 billion was spent by the Australian government on aged care between 2018 and 2019.

2. Many facilities cater to specific backgrounds
Specialized facilities are becoming more numerous in recent years, catering to seniors who belong to a specific culture, sexual orientation, or religion.

3. 1.6% of the population uses retirement facilities
As of 2020, there are up to 335,889 people using residential aged-care facilities in Australia.

4. The oldest citizens make up the majority
Up to 58% of aged care facility residents in Australia are 85 years old and over.

5. Retirement facility usage has skyrocketed recently
The number of people using aged care facilities has tripled in the last decade.

Why Aged Care Employee Day is Important

A. It recognizes those who support seniors in their later years

A retirement home might not be the ideal place for a senior to spend their final years, but the presence of caring workers and volunteers helps make their experience a little easier, simply by being there to serve or keep them company.

B. It reassures you that aged care facilities are staffed by trusted, caring people

Aged Care Employee Day reminds us that our elderly loved ones are in good hands. Seniors often have specific needs due to age-related illnesses or conditions, requiring a special level of care. This day highlights how aged care workers not only provide this care but also grow in their roles as compassionate professionals.

C. It celebrates the value of connecting across generations

This day honors the dedication of younger aged care workers who interact with senior citizens. Their efforts help bridge the generational gap, making seniors feel connected to the world around them. These interactions foster understanding between generations and enrich the lives of both the workers and the seniors they care for.