How ARAS can assist you
ARAS advocates can support older people to:
- understand their rights and the issues or concerns they are experiencing;
- have their voice, wishes, preferences and desired outcomes heard and respected;
- access relevant information and support to make informed decisions and exercise choice;
- determine the information or advocacy support they want from ARAS and the role they want ARAS to take;
- explore options and strategies to safeguard their rights, wellbeing and safety and reduce risks associated with abuse;
- understand and navigate relevant aged care and safeguarding systems;
- access appropriate services, specialist supports and referral pathways;
- communicate with aged care providers, government agencies and other relevant services where they want ARAS to assist;
- access professional interpreters at no cost where required; and
- build their confidence to self-advocate, where appropriate.
Information and Education
ARAS provides information and education to increase awareness and understanding of the abuse of older people, their rights, prevention strategies and available supports.
Information and education may be provided to older people, families, community groups, service providers, students and other professionals.
Safety, Consent and the older person's voice
ARAS works with and at the direction of the older person, wherever possible.
ARAS will seek the older person's consent before taking action on their behalf. However, where ARAS believes an older person may be at risk of serious or imminent harm, ARAS may independently raise concerns or make a report to an appropriate safeguarding or regulatory body.
The older person's rights, wishes, preferences and safety remain central to the information and advocacy support provided.
