2024 Hunter Elder Law & Capacity Symposium
The 2024 Hunter Elder Law & Capacity Symposium, held on Friday, 6 September 2024, and proudly presented by the Hunter Ageing Alliance, was a resounding success, bringing together professionals from across Australia to address some of the most pressing issues affecting older Australians.
Hosted at the University of Newcastle’s city campus, NUspace, and in collaboration with the Newcastle Law Society and Catherine Henry Lawyers, the event provided invaluable insights into elder law and capacity assessment while highlighting the importance of protecting autonomy and dignity in ageing.
The symposium, facilitated by former ABC Senior Reporter Philippa McDonald, offered a platform for dynamic discussions led by an impressive lineup of speakers, including Rodney Lewis AM, Dr. Charles Douglas, Adjunct Associate Professor Sue Field, Dr. Sharon Reutens, Viv Allanson OAM, Dr. Penny Webster, and Madeleine Archer. These experts delivered a wealth of knowledge on topics ranging from substituted decision-making and elder abuse prevention to the ethical complexities of Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) and restrictive practices in aged care.
Our Principal, Catherine Henry, said of the event: “It was energising and inspiring to be in a room with some of the leading thinkers in aged care in Australia, and especially important to be bringing people together from a range of disciplines, all of whom intersect with aged care in an important way.
“We know there is still a long way to go in creating an aged care system that is truly respectful of ageing Australians and which prioritises their safety and wellbeing every step of the way. Events like this are essential in keeping conversations going and educating people around the evolving considerations of aged care.”
Key takeaways from the event included:
Understanding legal capacity
Participants left with a deeper understanding of the nuanced nature of capacity.
The discussions emphasised the importance of recognising capacity as a fluid concept, influenced by the individual’s circumstances, decision complexity, and the environment. Attendees gained practical strategies for assessing capacity while respecting the rights and autonomy of older Australians.
Voluntary Assisted Dying in NSW
The symposium highlighted the intricacies of NSW’s VAD laws, providing clarity on eligibility criteria and the ethical considerations surrounding end-of-life decision-making.
Insights shared by experts helped attendees navigate the fine balance between legal frameworks and compassionate care, especially timely as we’ve recently marked the first anniversary of VAD in NSW.
Restrictive practices in aged care
A compelling discussion on restrictive practices underscored the importance of balancing safety and autonomy in aged care settings.
Participants explored innovative approaches to reducing the use of restraints and improving training for aged care staff, ensuring a more compassionate and rights-based approach.
The symposium not only equipped attendees with practical knowledge and skills, but also fostered an essential dialogue about improving outcomes for older Australians. The event reaffirmed the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to elder care, emphasising collaboration between legal, medical, and aged care professionals.
The 2024 Hunter Elder Law & Capacity Symposium was centred on advocating for the rights and wellbeing of ageing Australians. Attendees walked away inspired, better informed, and ready to implement positive changes in their respective fields.
As the community reflects on the success of this symposium, it stands as a testament to the power of shared knowledge and collective action in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate future for all.
Catherine Henry Lawyers were proud to have been a collaborator and supporter of this event, and hope it acts as a springboard for further debate and discussion around the rights of older Australians and the legalities around helping people age with dignity.
Looking for a Lawyer specialising in elder law and aged care? Contact Catherine Henry Lawyers
If you need legal support with an elder law or aged care matter, do not hesitate to contact the expert and caring team at Catherine Henry Lawyers. To confidentially discuss your needs, call us on 1800 874 949 or fill in the form below and we will be in touch.
