Arthur Koumoukelis, Thomson Geer
Since 1995, Arthur Koumoukelis has worked in the aged care and retirement sector. Today, he works with Thomson Geer – a national law firm who specialise in seniors living, aged care, retirement and the NDIS sector.
Recently, Arthur spoke with the GCMA about how the aged care industry has seen a shift in recent times and offered some expert insights into what opportunities exist in Australia for aged care operators, and businesses interested in engaging with the ageing marketplace.
“Key to ageing well and the aged care industry, is quality of life. For many people, as they age, they can end up trapped and isolated in their home – there are many different reasons for this – and it can become a very sad existence,” Arthur explained.
Using the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns as an example, Arthur explained many Australians have now experienced how hard it is to be trapped and isolated in our homes all day, every day, even with the advantages of internet connection.
“For many older people who do remain in their own homes, have family move in to support them, or move in with family members who are not set up to look after their wellbeing, they can still feel isolated, which can be extremely difficult,” said Arthur.
And, while historically many older people were frightened of going into aged care homes due to negative associations, Arthur explains over the past few years, there has been a real shift in aged care living – no longer are nursing homes a place 'to go' at the end of life, rather they have become places where older people 'go to live' – supported to enjoy their time and keep active for much longer periods.
This change is something Arthur attributes to key innovations, being championed by Government Policy and industry responding to consumer demands.
“The biggest and most important innovation I have seen in the ageing well sector in recent times, has been a greater move towards aged care living environments reflecting the home.
“They look like apartments and are designed to be enjoyable living environments.”
At the same this reflection of in-home living is taking place, aged care homes are relocating to areas where seniors can be active if they choose to be, all while considering the individual’s needs.
“Older people are people; they have varied needs and life experiences and the environment they live in should reflect their needs – a one size fits all model does not work.
“The most important part of this shifting dynamic is that it considers people’s dignity and advocates for high quality of life which is critical,” Arthur said.
