A new health system must not forget the aged and disabled

Vulnerability:

Recently, I was disgusted at yet another attack on our most vulnerable senior citizens by the Parliament of Victoria. The imposition of an additional $80.00 increase in vehicle registration for seniors shows how little regard this State has for its senior citizens. These citizens are the people who built the country, worked hard, paid their taxes on the understanding given by succeeding governments that they would be looked after in their retirement years.

Recently, the Australian Age Pension was increased by $11.40 per fortnight single rate ($296.40 per annum)and $19.20 per fortnight ($499.20 per annum) for a couple. This cost-of-living increase has now been eroded by the $80 increase and by a reduction of the benefits of the Pensioner Concession Card which thereby reduces the quality of life in retirement. Unlike their working colleagues these victims have no form of redress, until the ballot box.

The budget document addressed the issue of nursing homes by an injection of funding for upgrades, etc., however it has imposed increases in occupancy costs thereby placing a further burden on senior citizen and their families.

It would appear that the most vulnerable in society are to meet the shortfalls in government spending.

Expectations:

Perhaps we set our expectations too high, however a reasonable quality of life should be assured and measures such as taxation relief and benefits and provision of information can be of immense assistance to the seniors and disabled.

So, what price health? What do Australians really want?

Lifestyle 21st Century:

• A home with all modcons.
• Successful career path
• A planned family
• Full medical cover – private or government based
• Insurance against ill-health and accidents
• The right to quality of life in retirement.

These are the basic expectation of Australians.

So, what do we get?

On average, very little of the above, especially the more costly items, which were not available to the average Australian in the past. This then denies them the right to quality of life in their more senior years and worse if you happen to be disabled as well.