Episode Details

Beverly Baker is the president of the National Older Women's Network. With extensive experience in advocating for the rights and well-being of older women, Beverly is dedicated to ensuring that aging populations have access to dignity, security, and well-being. Under her leadership, the network focuses on empowering older women through community engagement and lobbying for policy changes.

Key Points:

• The "Support at Home" initiative is meant to allow elderly Australians to live independently, but is fraught with structural and financial challenges.
• Many elderly Australians are struggling with increased costs and lengthy wait times for care package approvals.
• Despite government intentions, the aged care system remains provider-focused and lacks sufficient oversight and accountability.
• The privatization trend in aged care is placing profit over provision of services, impacting the quality and accessibility of care.
• Active political engagement and local advocacy are crucial for holding politicians accountable and driving reforms in the aged care sector.

Notable Quotes:

• "It's really a complete cyclone that's just sucking everybody into it and who knows where they fly out." - Beverly Baker
• "This should come as no surprise to people that people are going, oh, look at all the old people we're getting." - Beverly Baker
• "The trouble with you, Bev, is that I know what it's like to be your age. You have no idea what it's like to be mine." - Beverly Baker
• "Growing old should be with dignity, respect, and well-being that they are things that are absolutely essential." - Beverly Baker

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