The challenges faced by older Western Australians from culturally diverse backgrounds have been highlighted in a new report to assist with service planning and work to combat ageism, discrimination and financial stress.
The Office of Multicultural Interests' Ageing in Multicultural Western Australia report provides review and analysis of the demographic, social and economic profiles of older Western Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) backgrounds.
It identifies major trends and issues to assist in the planning of services – in particular the vulnerability of older CaLD women.
This demographic is more likely to have low English proficiency, limited education, low income, and require assistance with day-to-day activities.
The report recommends measures to combat ageism, racial discrimination and to provide a financial safety net for older Western Australians from culturally diverse who experience multiple vulnerabilities.
The report also highlights the need to focus on CaLD seniors' issues as a specific and identifiable component of policy, funding, service delivery and reporting processes.
""This report will assist the State Government in planning for service delivery and the development of culturally appropriate policies and programs for older people", said Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia CSC MLA.
"Understanding the particular circumstances of older Western Australians from CaLD backgrounds is essential for informed strategic planning to deliver better outcomes for all.
"It is necessary to understand the challenges and barriers that face this cohort to determine what services and supports are required from health, social services and aged care providers to meet diverse needs."
Developed after extensive consultation, the report is the result of a collaboration between the Office of Multicultural Interests and the University of Western Australia and includes a decade's worth of analysis.
The Ageing in Multicultural Western Australia report is available through the resources section of the Office of Multicultural Interests website at www.omi.wa.gov.au
