‘Horror stories’ for aged inquiry

SOME ugly truths about abuse across Australia’s aged care industry will be revealed during the Federal Government’s royal commission into the sector, one of the Oakden whistleblowers says.

The inquiry will hold its first public hearing in Adelaide tomorrow as it begins a yearlong investigation of the quality of care across the country. It was sparked in part by the shocking abuse of dementia patients at the Oakden nursing home in Adelaide, which the South Australian Independent Commissioner Against Corruption described as a “shameful chapter in the state’s history”. Investigations into the state-run home found failures in clinical governance as well as incidents of rough handling of patients, excessive use of restraints and a high level of injuries.

Stewart Johnston, whose mother Helen was a former Oakden resident, said even more shocking abuse was likely to be revealed across the aged care industry as witnesses told of their experiences.

“I’ve been privy to some horrendous stories, and that’s continued for the past two years,” Mr Johnston said.

“I know for a fact we haven’t heard the worst yet.” “Our nation has turned a blind eye to this for decades but the conversation and focus is now on this sector.”

The commission will be based in Adelaide but will hold public hearings across the country. Its terms of reference require it to look at the extent of below-par aged care, and how to improve services for disabled residents, including young people. The royal commission will also look at dealing with dementia, people who want to live at home, and a sustainable funding model for care and facilities.

When details were announced Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australia should brace for some “difficult stories”

OUR NATION HAS TURNED A BLIND EYE TO THIS FOR DECADES BUT THE ... FOCUS IS NOW ON THIS SECTOR

but believed the investigation could rebuild trust.

“The royal commission will be the first step in re-establishing the trust that loved ones will be treated with dignity and with respect,” Mr Morrison said.

Mr Johnston said exactly what might flow from the inquiry was the “million-dollar question”.

“My hope is that we end up with a culture change in this country that respects our elders and assists them with care,” he said.

The royal commission will release an interim report by October 31 next year, with a final report due on April 30, 2020.