* 4 October 2024 *
At Vasey RSL Care, our Vision is, “That those we serve live with independence, control and dignity, feeling safe, valued and respected,” and we work to ensure the best possible levels of person-centred care at all stages of life.
We are very pleased to partner with Palliative Care Victoria (PCV) and their Dignified and Respectful Decisions Project, which shares these same goals for older people.
This DHAC-funded project provides information and resources for family members who are supporting older people living in aged care. In particular, it supports informed decision-making by providing those who take on the decision-making role for their loved one, with a better understanding of their role so they are prepared for what’s next and better able to navigate conversations around caring for their loved one.
The project focuses on collaborative care between families and the care team to enhance the experience of living and dying in residential aged care and includes:
* Guiding families to advocate for their loved ones and make decisions that fit with their wishes
* Working collaboratively to support families to have informed conversations
* Helping families understand palliative care and its benefits on quality of life
* Supporting family members as decision-makers and with their own wellbeing
“Becoming a Dignified and Respectful Decisions Partner is important to our community,” says General Manager – Residential Services, Corinne Lyon. “We can always learn more about supporting our residents and their families at this most difficult stage when the resident is approaching the end of their life. For family members, this time can be very emotional and stressful, especially for those with the responsibility of decision-making.”
Vasey RSL Care residential aged care staff have extensive expertise in supporting residents and families through this time.
“The resources available through the project will be a great help to family members who have not been in this situation before,” comments Corinne. “It gives our care staff a new range of resources to help them, including the key ‘Being prepared as a family decision-maker’ booklet.”
Dignity and respect are two of the Vasey RSL Care Promises to our community: “We believe this partnership with Palliative Care Victoria will expand our ability to provide caring and helpful support to our residents’ loved ones,” says Corinne.
