What is self-advocacy?
Some people may feel confident in raising their concerns with a service provider without the support of a formal advocacy service; this is called self-advocacy. You have a right to ask questions and to be consulted about your services. Your feedback and communication assist service providers in improving the quality of their service and may assist other people who may
have similar issues.
Although ARAS encourages people to self-advocate where they feel comfortable to do so, please feel free to call ARAS if you need further information or support to uphold your rights to:
- obtain accurate information
- express your concerns
- maintain your independence
- access or change services
Self-advocacy toolkit
The Self-advocacy toolkit aims to make it easier for older people, families, and professionals to access the information they need to speak up for better aged care services. As we age, our health and well-being become increasingly important, and it's essential to have the right tools to ensure optimal care and support.
The toolkit provides a comprehensive guide to understanding self-advocacy, developing self-advocacy skills, and advocating for oneself in various settings for better-aged care.
Together, we can work towards creating a culture of speaking up, where older people are valued and respected and where the needs and concerns of our older community are given the attention and care they deserve.
How does the Self-advocacy Toolkit work?
The Self-advocacy toolkit equips you with the information, resources and skills you need to speak up for better-aged care. Self-advocacy is an important skill that can help older people have more control over their lives and achieve their goals. With the right tools and resources, anyone can become an effective self-advocate for better-aged care.
The toolkit includes videos, checklists, and an assortment of resources to help provide older people knowledge and information needed to approach an aged care provider and other care supports. The resources cover a broad range of topics, including legal and financial matters, care planning, and mental health.
The Toolkit covers topics including:
Your aged care rights
Your aged care options
Solving common aged care problems
Protecting yourself from harm
Help with decision making
Aged care costs
Speaking up - Self-advocacy toolkit video
Gwenda Darling, a member of OPAN's National Older Persons Reference Group, shares her tips for getting the services you need to age well.
