Culture and Elder Care - An Overview

In this blog post, I delve into the crucial intersection of culture and elder care. As the global population continues to age, understanding the cultural nuances and traditions surrounding elder care becomes increasingly essential. This blog aims to shed light on the impact of cultural diversity on caregiving practices, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities it presents.
The world of elder care is not one-size-fits-all, and acknowledging and respecting diverse cultural perspectives is paramount in providing effective and compassionate care for the elderly. This blog explores how cultural considerations influence familial dynamics, decision-making processes, and the overall approach to elderly individuals' well-being.
Stay tuned as I navigate through the intricate tapestry of cultural influences on elder care, seeking to foster a deeper understanding of the pivotal role that culture plays in shaping caregiving practices worldwide.

Cultural acknowledgment in aged care services facilitates effective communication and understanding -

Language barriers and differences in communication styles are a recognised obstacle in providing care for seniors. Recognising and respecting diverse languages and communication norms enable caregivers to establish meaningful connections with elderly individuals. Without appropriate communication channels, individuals with diverse backgrounds and life experiences become invisible[i]. Thus, culturally and linguistically appropriate care enhances the overall quality of life by ensuring that important information is conveyed accurately and that CALD seniors can express their needs and preferences effectively: providers of aged care services are recommended to ‘employ bilingual and bicultural staff who can provide you with care that meets your cultural needs and / or using your preferred language’[ii].

Aged care staff who deliver aged care services must be trained in culturally safe and trauma-informed way[iii] -

The obvious reason for this is that different ethnicities have distinct health beliefs, dietary preferences, and traditional healing practices. Tailoring care plans to align with these cultural nuances promotes holistic and personalised care. Understanding the significance of cultural practices allows caregivers to incorporate rituals, foods, customs, music and other art forms or activities that hold cultural importance for the elderly, thereby enhancing their emotional and spiritual well-being.

Creating a culturally inclusive environment in aged care services helps mitigate feelings of isolation and loneliness, which often result in emotional and mental health disturbances[iv] -

Many older individuals in aged care facilities may be far from their families or friends, or their ethnic communities, especially if they have migrated or belong to minority ethnic groups. By acknowledging, embracing and celebrating various cultures, care facilities can create a sense of community and shared understanding among all, and especially CALD residents.

Ethnic and cultural awareness in aged care services is also crucial for addressing health inequalities among older residents -

Certain ethnic groups may be more susceptible to specific health conditions or have unique healthcare, emotional, religious or spiritual needs. Tailoring the services provided to elders with diverse backgrounds and life experiences to consider these specificities would ultimately lead to more appropriate aged care services and an all-inclusive, culturally friendly, accepting and tolerant residential aged care environment.

Enabling CALD people to access quality and professional interpreting services in all spheres of the aged care system will ultimately improve their experience of those services -

Cultural enrichment and exchange at the broadest level depends on appropriate communication: use of qualified interpreters facilitates appropriate and culturally sensitive multicultural exchange by bridging language gaps, allowing older Australians to engage with, and learn from, the diverse cultural heritage of their fellow citizens coming from a CALD background.

[i] Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, February 2021, Final Report Volume 3A, p158

[ii] Actions to support older Culturally and Linguistically Diverse people, February 2019, Outcome for Consumers 4: A proactive and flexible aged care system, p6

[iii] Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, February 2021, Final Report Volume 3A, p157

[iv] Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, February 2021, Final Report Volume 1, Summary and Recommendations, p105