Ageing well in CALD communities

Published 16th October 2014

According to a report recently launched in Melbourne, Geographic isolation, language barriers at all levels of service navigation and service provision, and reluctance to use residential aged care are among common challenges facing three Victorian CALD communities, Ageing Well in Three Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities identifies how to support ageing well in Chinese, Italian and Greek communities in Victoria.  Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, which commissioned report has been supporting CALD communities for nearly 50 years. This research aims to influence how the foundation will support these communities and enhance the prospects of ageing well in a culturally diverse Australia.
The report mentions difficulties in forming partnerships, a lack of infrastructure to cope with the changing demography, limited access to an experienced and culturally-equipped workforce, challenges between ethno-specific and mainstream service provision, and limited engagement with philanthropic organisations.
On the positive side the study identifies each community’s resilience, resourcefulness and commitment to assisting older people to age well and philanthropy’s ability to take the risks government or other funding bodies cannot.
The report recommends future philanthropic planning and funding reflect the current political and sensitive debate, exploring cross-sectoral engagement through collaborative networks, implementing funding and application guidelines to support smaller organisations, and providing resources to support CALD communities to undertake strategic planning and develop evidence-based services and programs.

Download the full report here: Ageing Well in Three Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities