Guyra Multi Purpose Service (MPS) is helping raise awareness of the International Day of Older Persons (October 1) by outlining a range of its services aimed at older people and their carers.

Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) members – who provide outreach services to Guyra MPS from Armidale - can help people decide what kind of care will best meet their needs when they are no longer able to manage at home without assistance.

Guyra-based Registered Nurse Sue Croaker said ACAT assessments can be carried out in a person’s own home or in hospital, free-of-charge.

“Once the Aged Care Assessment Team has a clear understanding of a person’s care requirements, they will recommend or approve the services most appropriate to meet those needs,” Ms Croaker said.

ACAT team members approve older people for Federal Government-subsidised aged care such as respite care, residential aged care, Community Aged Care Packages (CACPs), or flexible care such as the dementia-targeted Extended Aged Care at Home (EACH) package.

International Day of Older Persons on 1 October gives the whole community an opportunity to recognise and applaud the achievements and ongoing contributions made by seniors in Australia.

The event’s 2008 theme is Rights for Older Persons, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“October 1 is an opportunity to recognise the part older Australians have played in shaping our nation, and the continuing role they have in contributing to our communities,” Ms Croaker said.

“From Hunter New England Health’s perspective, the day also offers us a chance to remind older people in our communities that a range of services are available to help them when they most need it.”

“Early intervention, prevention and innovative treatment strategies in aged care provide an important pathway in helping older community members achieve improved quality of life.”

Community members wanting more information should contact the Northern Tablelands Aged Care Assessment Team on 6776 9688.