AUSTRALIA 
'Huge increase' in abuse of elderly
Sunday, 23 March, 2008
A report tabled by the Federal Government shows a steep increase in abuse and neglect of the elderly (Getty Images)
A federal government report has revealed a huge rise in cases of abuse and neglect of elderly people, and that more cases are investigated in Victoria than any other state.
News Ltd says Victoria is also responsible for more than half of all elderly care inquiries, aged-care standards and external agencies referred to police and the coroner.
It says cases investigated include allegations of serious physical assault, medical mismanagement and failed personal care.
Lion's share from Victoria
There were 3,947 cases probed nationally by aged-care watchdog the Office of Aged Care Quality and Compliance from July to December 31 last year -- 1,447 of them in Victoria, News Ltd says.
This is the first time details of alleged nursing home accreditation breaches have been made public.
The almost 4,000 national investigated complaints, including 418 alleged physical or sexual assaults, are triple the number two years ago.
Stricter checks needed
Federal Minister for Ageing Justine Elliot said there will be increased police checks on all staff in nursing homes and aged care facilities.
"We have a responsibility to care for our nation's frail and aged," she says.
Yesterday the federal government announced more than 2000 new nursing home beds will be created in high need areas across Australia
Source: AAP
News Ltd says Victoria is also responsible for more than half of all elderly care inquiries, aged-care standards and external agencies referred to police and the coroner.
It says cases investigated include allegations of serious physical assault, medical mismanagement and failed personal care.
Lion's share from Victoria
There were 3,947 cases probed nationally by aged-care watchdog the Office of Aged Care Quality and Compliance from July to December 31 last year -- 1,447 of them in Victoria, News Ltd says.
This is the first time details of alleged nursing home accreditation breaches have been made public.
The almost 4,000 national investigated complaints, including 418 alleged physical or sexual assaults, are triple the number two years ago.
Stricter checks needed
Federal Minister for Ageing Justine Elliot said there will be increased police checks on all staff in nursing homes and aged care facilities.
"We have a responsibility to care for our nation's frail and aged," she says.
Yesterday the federal government announced more than 2000 new nursing home beds will be created in high need areas across Australia
Source: AAP
