Speak Out April 2016

In Focus - Aged care

SPA advocates for the benefit of speech pathology services for all people, regardless of age, in: (1) enhancing communication, swallowing safety, and mealtime function; (2) reducing associated activity limitations and participation restrictions; and (3) optimising quality of life. Given the population increase of older Australians, the need for speech pathology services for this population will increase. Care provided to older Australians must strive to align with national and international recommendations for integrated and consumer directed care, person and relationship centred care, and active ageing principles (Aged Care Act, 1997; Commonwealth of Australia, 2012, 2014, 2015a; World Health Organization, 2002). Speech Pathology Australia recognises communication as a fundamental human right for all Australians (Speech Pathology Australia, 2014a).

Sharon Crane Senior Advisor Professional Education and Certification

National Office has a 1300 368 835 number to support members within Australia to have equity in telephoning National Office for the cost of a local call. When phoning about SPA Events, please have your SPA member number ready to help us to assist you as efficiently as possible.

Dementia is our business - national tour Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) is delighted that Dr Jade Cartwright is presenting the 2016 SPA National Tour. The tour title is Dementia is our Business: Speech Pathology Services for People Living with Dementia across the Continuum of Care. The 2016 National Tour workshop will explore the links between the biology of the diseases that cause dementia and the symptoms that arise as a result, with a particular focus on communication. The role

of speech pathologists in working with people with dementia will be explored across the continuum of care, with the goal of improving quality of life, promoting autonomy, and enabling access to meaningful conversations. Jade recognises that Dementia is of growing concern to individuals, societies, and cultures around the world. As the number of people living with dementia increases, so does the need for enhanced knowledge and understanding.

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Speak Out April 2016

Speech Pathology Australia