What are the policy and program implications of individual budget style service models for low-income older renters?

Abstract

Objective: To explore the policy and program implications of the Australian aged care reforms for low-income older renters.

Methods: Interviews and focus groups with low-income older renters and service providers of both housing and in-home aged care were undertaken.

Result: Analysis of the findings emphasised the complex world of aged care service provision, particularly for low-income renters and their service providers.

Conclusions: Societal, systemic and systematic change is required to ensure easier access to services. Policy and programming must be driven from both the bottom up and the top down, and not take a "market-making by government" approach.

Keywords: ageing in place; home care services; housing.