Report covering almost 70% of residential aged care has "disturbing" results for VAD

A report into voluntary assisted dying (VAD) in residential aged care homes has revealed that, of 72 providers featured, only four provided comprehensive information and full access to VAD. Further, of these 72 providers, which care for almost 70% of the national residential aged care population, it has been revealed that 85% do not offer VAD access to residents, or there is no public information about the level of access; this is despite VAD laws being passed in every state and the ACT. The report is titled ‘Voluntary assisted dying in residential aged care homes: a national report card’ and is by Go Gentle Australia in partnership with OPAN.

“The results in this report are disturbing. Older people have a legal right to know about VAD, where it is available and what support will be offered at the end of life,” Go Gentle CEO Dr Linda Swan said. “This report strongly suggests that this is not standard practice in Residential Aged Care but it must rapidly become so.” Swan also said she had heard of frail and sick aged care residents being forced to move to another care home to access VAD, and that she had heard from residents who only learnt about VAD when it was too late, as well as families who are angry that their loved one suffered unnecessarily.

“Older people have a legal right to know their options at the end of life, including VAD. And they have a right to know this information before they choose the facility that will become their home,” Swan said. "They can rightly expect that the people who run residential aged care facilities will adhere to statutes and guidelines put in place to protect their choices and consumer rights.” Swan said the report had a twofold purpose: to investigate what information providers make available to the public about VAD access, and to encourage transparency so that older Australians can make informed choices about their care.

“Our intention in publishing these findings is not to condemn residential aged care providers, but to encourage and support the sector, highlight best practice and work constructively with providers so older Australians can have the clear, accurate and accessible information they need,” Swan said. Craig Gear, OPAN CEO, said that to ensure their dignity and rights were upheld, older people deserved clear, upfront information about VAD. “Residential aged care is someone’s home. This is not about taking a position for or against VAD — it’s about giving older people and their families the clarity they need at a deeply personal time.”

“In rural and regional areas, moving to access VAD can be harmful and unrealistic. Clear information from providers helps older people avoid distressing, unnecessary transfers,” Gear said. “OPAN will keep working with providers and regulators to lift transparency and support best practice — so older people can make informed decisions and have their choices respected.” The report was launched on 30 September at the Ageing Australia National Conference and you can read it here.

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