Are you curious about the fundamental principles that underpin quality aged care services? In the world of aged care, quality is more than just a buzzword – it is the cornerstone of exceptional care and support for our older adults. Introduced in 2019, the Aged Care Quality Standards have evolved from a theoretical framework into the very essence of delivering outstanding care. Care providers rely on these standards to provide person-centred services prioritising consumer dignity, choice, and overall well-being.
Aged care facilities must demonstrate their compliance with the eight Aged Care Quality Standards in various ways. They must ensure that their caregivers show compassion and respect towards residents’ diverse identities and cultures, as well as provide engaging activities that promote social interaction and mental stimulation. In this article, we will explore further into the intricacies of aged care quality standards, offering expert insights and guidance for navigating the complexities of elder care.
8 Standards of Aged Care Service
Standard 1: Consumer Dignity and Choice
Standard 1 is a fundamental principle that underpins quality aged care. It recognises each consumer’s inherent worth and individuality, emphasising their right to be treated with dignity and respect. This standard ensures that consumers can make informed choices about their care and services, empowering them to make choices that align with their preferences, cultural backgrounds, and values.
Note: The Australian Government Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has enshrined the ‘Charter Aged Care Rights‘ in law to protect the rights of people receiving aged care.
Unlock Your Path to Independence and Care with Expert NDIS Support!
Standard 2: Ongoing Assessment and Planning with Consumers
Standard 2 ensures that aged care providers engage in continuous assessment and collaborative care planning with consumers. This standard recognises the importance of regularly evaluating consumers’ evolving needs, goals, and preferences to provide person-centred care.
Standard 3: Personal Care and Clinical Care
Standard 3 is a crucial component of the aged care quality standards. It emphasises providing high-quality and individualised care to meet consumers’ physical, mental, and clinical needs. This standard ensures that consumers receive appropriate support with activities of daily living, medication management, pain management, and other clinical care as required.
Standard 4: Services and Supports for Daily Living
Standard 4 ensures that consumers can access various services and supports that assist with daily activities, promote independence, and enhance their overall well-being. This standard values the importance of addressing consumers’ needs beyond clinical care, encompassing support for daily living tasks such as meals, mobility, hygiene, social engagement, and recreational activities.
Standard 5: Organisation’s Service Environment
Standard 5 focuses on creating a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment for consumers in aged care settings. It acknowledges the significance of a physical and social environment that promotes the dignity and social connections of consumers, which, in turn, fosters a sense of security and well-being.
Standard 6: Feedback and Complaints
Standard 6 ensures that aged care providers have effective systems in place to receive and address feedback and complaints from consumers and their representatives. This standard values the importance of open communication, transparency, and continuous improvement in the delivery of care and services.
Standard 7: Human Resources
focuses on the importance of having an appropriately skilled, qualified, and supported workforce in the aged care sector. This standard ensures that registered aged care providers have effective human resource management practices in place to recruit, train, and support their staff members.
Standard 8: Organisational Governance
Standard 8 addresses the overall governance and management of aged care organisations, including establishing robust systems, continuous improvement, and accountability for delivering quality of care.
Looking for an aged care provider who values your dignity and choice? Quality care begins with a solid foundation, and Auspire Care stands firmly on the 8 Standards of aged care and services. Reach out to us and experience our commitment to excellence.
Who monitors the Aged Care Quality Standard?
Australian government-funded aged care services are independently evaluated and accredited by the Australian Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) in accordance with the Aged Care Quality Standards.
Each Quality Standard in an aged care facility is rated on a scale of four bars. If all four bars are present, it signifies that the facility is fully compliant with the established standard and adheres to quality protocols. On the other hand, if the number of bars decreases, it indicates areas needing improvement. If a standard falls below the four-bar threshold, the facility may be subject to corrective actions to enhance compliance. If there are no bars, it means that the facility has yet to undergo an assessment against the specific standard.
One Bar | Insufficient | |
Two Bar | Significant changes are required. | |
Three Bar | Some adjustments are required. | |
Four Bar | Satisfies standards. |
What happens if the service provider fails to meet the aged care quality standard?
If a service provider fails to meet the Aged Care Quality Eight Standards, consequences and regulatory actions may be taken to ensure accountability and improve care quality. The consequences vary depending on the severity and persistence of non-compliance and can include measures to address the issue and meet the required standards.
- The ACQSC might issue Formal Notices like a Notice to Remedy, requiring the provider to fix the issues within a specific timeframe. Failure to comply can lead to further sanctions.
- For non-compliance, the provider might face infringement notices with associated Fines.
- Compliance with the standards directly affects and Reduces Star Rating of provider, impacting their public image and potentially affecting future funding.
- In severe cases where resident safety and well-being are at immediate risk, the ACQSC can impose harsher Sanctions like suspending or revoking the provider’s operating license.
Unlock a World of Compassionate Care
What is Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standard?
The “strengthened aged care quality standard” refers to an updated version of a quality standard that has been improved to ensure higher levels of quality and compliance in residential aged care settings. The Australian Government conducted a review of the Quality Standards, resulting in enhanced standards that address the recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
As per the Department of Health and Aged Care, the final draft of the strengthened Quality Standards comprises seven standards, which are:
- Standard 1: The Person
- Standard 2: The Organisation
- Standard 3: The Care and Services
- Standard 4: The Environment
- Standard 5: Clinical Care*
- Standard 6: Food and Nutrition
- Standard 7: The Residential Community
However, these strengthened standards are not yet in operation and will come into effect with the new Aged Care Act.
Conclusion
The Aged Care Quality Standards are your compass, guiding you towards exceptional care that prioritises your dignity, independence, and well-being. With these standards in place, you can confidently navigate your aged care journey. If you are searching for a provider committed to upholding these standards and delivering exceptional care, Auspire Care is here for you. We are dedicated to empowering individuals to live life to the fullest. Get in touch with us today to learn how our devoted team embraces the Aged Care Quality Standards and stands ready to provide quality care and support for both you and your loved ones.
Follow Us: