Senior Australians who would like information and support are encouraged to contact the Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line on 1800 171 866, Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 6pm (excluding public holidays). The Support Line has been extended until 30 June to ensure senior Australians get the services and assistance they need during COVID-19.
The support service is a joint initiative of COTA Australia, Dementia Australia, National Seniors Australia and the Older Persons Advocacy Network. The expansion of the service will also include support from the Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care Alliance.
In its first six months the service received more than 5,000 inbound calls and provided more than 29,000 outbound calls.
The top five reasons for calls included:
- wellbeing checks
- information about COVID-19
- advice to vulnerable people
- travel restrictions
- access to new, or queries about existing, home care services.