This web resource gives aged care service providers and staff insights about intersectional seniors and their mental health, how to recognise signs of distress or abuse, and what to do about it.
Intersectionality refers to how different aspects of a person's identity (such as disability, age, sexuality and race) intersect to create unique experiences of discrimination or disadvantage.
For individuals living with disability and individuals who require aged care services, accessing mental health support services can be particularly challenging due to several factors:
Stigma and Misconceptions:
Clients with disabilities often face societal stigma and misconceptions, which can be exacerbated when they also experience mental health issues. This dual stigma can make them reluctant to seek help.
Physical and Communication Barriers:
Physical barriers, such as inaccessible buildings, and communication barriers, such as the need for alternative communication methods, can prevent individuals from accessing mental health services.
Financial Constraints:
The additional costs associated with disability and aged care, such as medical expenses and specialised equipment, can make affording mental health services difficult.
Lack of Integrated Care:
Health care systems often treat disability and mental health separately, leading to fragmented care where neither issue is fully addressed.
:format():fill())