New program trains aged care workers to support CALD seniors

A new training program will help equip aged care workers with skills to support culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) seniors.

Settlement Services International (SSI) has launched a new online program that will train workers as a proven way to boost health outcomes and quality of life.

Head of SSI's home care workforce support program Iggy Pintado said the program provides the highest support to new and existing workers.

"The sector has been crying out for a practical training program like this," Mr Pintado said.

"The feedback from seniors is that they want access to support from carers who understand and have respect for their culture.

"We know that culturally responsive care leads to better health outcomes."

Many CALD Australians face barriers in accessing and engaging with services that support their well-being.

Around 37 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over were born overseas.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 33 per cent of Australians accessing aged care services were born overseas.

Home care also had the largest proportion of people with a preferred language other than English at 18 per cent.

The training program was in response to a report by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, that highlighted the importance of services being designed with CALD backgrounds in mind due to cultural and language barriers.

The program also offers solutions to the recommendations in the government's Aged Care Diversity Framework.

The program is free for Home Care Workforce Support Program participants and is delivered in seven lessons, covering topics about culture and care to trauma.

SSI's diversity training manager Janet Irvine said the program was central in helping the workforce understand different cultural perspectives.

"Aged care workers are working in culturally diverse teams and with clients from a range of backgrounds," she said.

"This e-learning will take people beyond the compliance level training to something more practical and relevant to their everyday work.

"They will increase their awareness of how culture influences them and their work with clients and equip them with information, tools, and resources to tailor the care they provide to all their clients."

Do you have an idea for a story?
Email [email protected]