Commemorative Day for Aged Care Workers - Scheduled for August 7, 2024

Commemorative Day for Aged Care Workers - Scheduled for August 7, 2024

August 7 each year is a special day dedicated to the hardworking angels who make a difference in the lives of our seniors—Aged Care Worker's Day. Caring for the elderly requires skill, patience, and compassion, and these dedicated individuals go above and beyond to ensure seniors receive the care and companionship they need. Whether a nurse, care worker, driver, chef, cleaner, or volunteer, every role matters in creating a warm and welcoming environment that seniors can call home.

Origins of Aged Care Worker's Day

Aged Care Worker's Day was started in 2018 by Whiddon, an Australian aging care provider, as a means to recognize and celebrate the dedication and hard work of those caring for seniors across the country. With the steady growth of facilities supporting the seniors in our communities, it's essential to honor the professionals working tirelessly to meet their needs.

Previous days like International Nurses Day did not fully acknowledge the efforts of aged care workers beyond their nursing duties. Whiddon created this special day to highlight all the crucial roles played by workers, whether in the kitchen, laundry room, or sleep-in quarters, ensuring the smooth operation of aged care facilities.

Thanks to the efforts of Leading Age Services Australia, Aged Care Worker's Day is now officially recognized as a national holiday in 2019, emphasizing the importance of showcasing love and appreciation for the workers that support our seniors in their retirement.

2024

The Timeline of Aged Care Worker's Day

August 7

| Year | Event || --- | --- || 2018 | Aged Care Worker's Day is created by Whiddon || 2019 | Leading Age Services Australia makes Aged Care Worker's Day an official holiday || 2024 | Aged Care Worker's Day is celebrated on a Wednesday || 2025 | Aged Care Worker's Day is celebrated on a Thursday || 2026 | Aged Care Worker's Day is celebrated on a Friday || 2027 | Aged Care Worker's Day is celebrated on a Saturday || 2028 | Aged Care Worker's Day is celebrated on a Monday |

Wednesday

Aged Care Worker's Day FAQs

What are the main duties of aged care workers?

2025

• Assisting with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Helping with grocery shopping and laundry
• Providing medical and emotional support
• Keeping in touch with the client's family
• Planning social and recreational activities for clients

August 7

How much do aged care workers in Australia typically earn?

Thursday

As of 2022, aged care workers in Australia usually earn around $55,400 per year or $28.41 per hour. Beginners typically make around $53,313 annually, while those with more experience can earn up to $68,071 a year. Pay may vary depending on the specific location and workplace.

What qualifications are needed to work in aged care in Australia?

2026

To work in aged care in Australia, you need to complete a Certificate III in Individual Support or a Certificate IV in Ageing Support from a local TAFE. Additionally, First Aid Certification, a Police Check, and relevant experience are often required.

August 7

Celebrating Aged Care Worker's Day

Friday

1. Express gratitude to aged care workers

A simple "thank you" can make a world of difference and is a great way to show your appreciation to those who commit their time and energy to caring for our seniors. Post a message online using the hashtags #ThanksForCaring and #AgedCareWorkerDay to join the global celebration.

2027

1. Offer your help through volunteering

August 7

See if local retirement homes are in need of volunteers to help make a positive impact on the lives of seniors and provide essential support to the staff who care for them.

Saturday

1. Spend quality time with elderly loved ones

Show your appreciation for your senior loved ones with a thoughtful gift or quality time together. Your support helps make these golden years memorable and comforting.

2028

Did you know? 5 Interesting Facts about Aged Care in Australia

August 7

1. The government invests billions in senior care each year, with around $19.9 billion spent on aged care between 2018 and 2019[1].
2. Many facilities are now specialized, catering to seniors from specific cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, or religious groups[3].
3. The population of seniors utilizing retirement facilities has tripled in the past decade, with up to 335,889 people relying on these services as of 2020[4].
4. 58% of those residing in aged care facilities in Australia are 85 years old and above[4].
5. Various initiatives and reforms highlight the significance of the sector and the need for quality care, such as the creation of a new rights-based Aged Care Act and ongoing policy changes to improve workers’ salaries and working conditions[5].

Monday

The Impact of Aged Care Worker's Day

1. Acknowledges the hard work and dedication of caregivers

A retirement home may not be ideal for a senior to spend their final years, but the presence of caring workers provides them with necessary support and companionship, helping to make their experience a bit easier.

1. Provides reassurance that seniors are in good hands

The sacrifices of hardworking aged care professionals remind us that elderly loved ones are in trusted and caring hands, ensuring that the physical and emotional needs of residents are met with utmost compassion.

1. Demonstrates the value of intergenerational connections

Aged Care Worker's Day highlights the importance of aged care workers, who have an opportunity to foster meaningful interactions between younger generations and those in the twilight of their lives.

[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2020). Available Online[2] Australian Government, Department of Health. (2022). Aged care information for consumers Available Online[3] Leading Age Services Australia. (2013). Specialist Residential Aged Care Facilities – The Future. Available Online[4] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2020). Available Online[5] Australian Government, Department of Health. (2021). Aged Care Reform Budget Measures 2023. Available Online

1. Aged Care Worker's Day acknowledges the diligence and compassionate efforts of those nurturing the golden years of seniors.
2. The day was initiated in 2018 by Whiddon, a prominent Australian aging care provider.
3. Whiddon created this special day to acknowledge and celebrate all the invaluable roles played by workers.
4. Previously, International Nurses Day did not fully recognize the contributions of aged care workers beyond their nursing functions.
5. By 2019, Aged Care Worker's Day was made an official national holiday in Australia, emphasizing the importance of compassion and respect for this significant workforce.
6. The focus extends beyond nursing staff, including roles in the kitchen, laundry, and sleep-in quarters, ensuring seamless aged care facility operations.
7. On this day, we pay tribute to the hardworking nurses, careworkers, drivers, chefs, cleaners, and volunteers who create a supportive and inviting environment for seniors.
8. August 7 is devoted to recognizing the commitment and passion of workers in the industry, setting a precedent for ongoing appreciation.
9. In 2024, Aged Care Worker's Day will be celebrated on a Wednesday.
10. In 2025 and 2026, the day will be observed on a Thursday and Friday, respectively.
11. From 2026 onwards, the celebration date will shift, sometimes falling on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday.
12. It is essential to appreciate the hardworking angels who make a difference in seniors' lives every day, beyond this designated day.
13. Various roles in the aged care sector contribute to the essential medical and emotional support provided to seniors.
14. Tasks include daily chores like bathing, dressing, and grooming support.
15. Aged care workers also help with grocery shopping and laundry, ensuring a familiar sense of comfort amidst their new home environment.
16. They play a crucial part in maintaining the health and wellness of seniors by providing medical support and managing chronic diseases like cancer, respiratory conditions, digestive health issues, eye health concerns, and hearing impairments.
17. The daily routines of workers also improve the mental health of seniors, offering emotional support along the way.
18. Aged care workers coordinate with family members to ensure loved ones are kept informed and feel involved in their senior's wellbeing.
19. They strive to keep seniors engaged by planning social and recreational activities, helping them maintain an active lifestyle through fitness and exercise, focusing on environmental-science and hobbies.
20. In addition to medical conditions, workers help seniors manage autoimmune disorders, neurological disorders, skin conditions, and skin-care needs.
21. The comprehensive work of aged care professionals extends to promoting health-and-wellness, focusing on nutrition, therapies-and-treatments, and adhering to science-based best practices.
22. Their efforts have a significant impact on various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, financial and banking services, and even aerospace and automotive sectors contributing to the wellbeing of seniors.
23. The hard work of aged care professionals is essential in addressing societal challenges, such as climate change, mental health, and parenting support.

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