Residential aged care

It is important to conduct the entry and orientation programme to a residential aged care facility in the preferred language of residents and their families (Centre for Cultural Diversity and Ageing, 2010). Professional translators should be used to translate all documents requiring the consent of residents, such as care plans, as well as other documents as required. Information about services, including health and personal care procedures should be provided in the preferred language of residents.

It is important to ensure that residents and their representatives have access to internal and external complaint mechanisms and the Health & Disability Code of Rights in their preferred language (Health & Disability Commissioner, 1996). The language needs of residents in residential aged care facilities need to be considered, that is using trained interpreters and signage in preferred languages.