WA boosts support for older people after hospital

Older Western Australians leaving hospital will receive increased monitoring and additional support at home under a new $20.3 million pilot announced by the Cook government.

The TCP@Home+ program will expand the existing Transition Care Program by combining nursing, personal care and allied health services with wearable technology designed to improve safety and support recovery at home.

“The program, which is being delivered through out $140 million Winter Strategy, not only enhances safety but helps restore independence for older Western Australians,” Premier Roger Cook said.

Funded over four years, the pilot is expected to support up to 240 older people each year.

Participants will receive wearable alert devices linked to a 24-hour monitoring service, alongside daily wellbeing checks. The technology is designed to trigger a rapid response if a health or welfare concern is identified.

The government said the initiative aims to improve patient flow through hospitals while helping older people remain in their own homes during recovery.

“This model of care means older Western Australians can benefit from increased reassurance and safety in the comfort of their own homes, while they recover after a hospital stay,” Aged Care and Seniors Minister Simone McGurk said.

“This new virtual alert monitoring offers older Western Australians security and appropriate care in their own home as they regain their independence.

“By working closely with aged care providers, the Cook Labor Government is strengthening aged care pathways for older Western Australians.”

The Department of Health will deliver the trial in partnership with aged care providers.

Health and Mental Health Minister Meredith Hammat said the pilot was already demonstrating benefits for patients and the broader health system.

“Every older Western Australian deserves to recover with confidence and the right support after a stay in hospital. That's why we're enhancing the Transition Care Program with innovative wearable technology that provides an extra layer of safety and reassurance as people recover at home,” she said.

“This program is already delivering real results for our health system by supporting older Western Australians to return home safely after a hospital stay.”

The pilot is one of several initiatives being funded through the government’s Winter Strategy, which aims to ease pressure on hospitals while improving care options for older Western Australians.