Opening speech for Elderly Day Care Centre

Abstract

Governments are encouraging people to live as independently as possible and to stay where most people want most to stay for as long as possible - at home - in a private residence rather than in residential care. The government is currently developing the Horne and Community Care Program (HACC) to support older and younger disabled people at home. Care of elderly relatives by the family may result in significant costs to the family (and especially to women in the family). It is necessary therefore for as full a range of support options and alternatives to be available. This is one option that will appeal to some people. The operation is not unlike that in a child care centre. The older person is taken in the morning and picked up later, after the carer has been to work, is out or whatever. People can come on a regular or casual basis, and can be assured of high quality care and support. The fees are even similar to those for child care.