Older Australians with disabilities face a unique set of challenges, often experiencing the combined effects of ageism and ableism. This intersectionality can lead to a lack of recognition, inclusive access to services, and participation in decision-making, creating a cycle of exclusion and marginalization.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in six Australians are over 65 years old, a figure expected to rise. TMoreover, 52.3 per cent of older Australians have a disability, with 86.6 per cent experiencing one or more long-term health conditions, as highlighted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Dr. Vânia de la Fuente-Núñez, who leads this work at the Fred Hollows Foundation, explains that the assumption that disability comes with age “renders the population invisible.” This misconception leads to their unique needs often being overlooked in development and humanitarian programs. As a result, older people with disabilities face considerable barriers to accessing essential services, including assistive technologies and specialized care for cognitive decline.
To bridge this gap, the Fred Hollows Foundation and Christian Blind Mission Australia collaborated to produce a comprehensive policy report, “The Intersection of Ageism and Ableism in Development and Humanitarian Policy and Practice,” examining data from across the Indo-Pacific region.
While this report doesn’t focus on Australia specifically, Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia chief executive officer Geoff Rowe notes the presence of similar attitudes in this country, expressing concern about the lack of research into the intersection of ageism and ableism within the Australian context,
“If you look at both sectors independently – disability and ageing – there really isn’t comprehensive research,” he said. “There is research, but when you throw the two together you are really falling into that no person’s land,” Rowe observed. He believes this lack of understanding stems from Australia’s former dual welfare system, which categorized older Australians under the Commonwealth’s purview and those with disabilities under the age of 65 under state responsibility. ]
“We miss the mark. We miss the opportunity.”
Despite these challenges, Rowe remains optimistic, pointing to the potential influence of the baby boomer generation. He believes their vocal nature and experience with advocating for change will drive progress in addressing ageism and ableism within the aged care system. He encourages older Australians to engage in advocacy and demand better services and recognition.
The report underscores the urgent need for targeted data collection, research, and inclusive policies to address this critical issue. It advocates for:
- improved access to assistive technologies for older adults with visual impairments.
- rights-based approaches that address violence against older women with disabilities.
It also calls for better understanding of the timing of disability onset and for stronger implementation of inclusive legal frameworks.
By raising awareness and working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all Australians, regardless of age or ability.
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