MENU

Aged Care Workforce

Working in aged care can be rewarding but also difficult, particularly if the people in your care have experienced trauma. There are simple things you can do to help an older person affected by trauma feel safe and get the help that they need, while also supporting your own wellbeing.

On this page:
Trauma, Loss and Grief
Trauma and Dementia
Trauma-Informed Care for Older People
Wellbeing and Self-Care

Trauma, Loss and Grief

Sadly, grief and loss are common for people in aged care and can be caused by the death of a loved one, health issues, leaving their home or losing their independence. This can make underlying trauma (such as childhood abuse or experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic) more difficult, leading to ongoing distress and other problems. You can make a difference by knowing when to tell a supervisor that the person in your care needs professional help.

Information about Trauma and Dementia

People living with dementia can have difficulty coping with loss and trauma because it’s harder for them to communicate, make sense of painful memories or feel safe. Find out how you can support people living with both dementia and trauma.

Providing Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care is a way to support older people who have experienced trauma without taking on a counselling or mental health role. It includes thinking about how trauma can affect someone’s behaviour, being aware of their reminders of traumatic events and giving them choices about how and when you provide their care.

Identifying and Managing Trauma in the Aged Care Sector Webinar Trauma Awareness Training Trauma-Informed Care – In-depth Training 90min What is Trauma-Informed Care? Video Building connections video

Wellbeing and Self-Care

Working with people who have experienced trauma can impact on your health and wellbeing, as well as expose you to trauma at work. Learn how to support your own wellbeing while caring for others.

Self-Care for Staff Fact Sheet How Can Trauma Affect Me? Fact Sheet Self-care video Supporting staff wellbeing
Webinar
SOLAR Wellbeing Program