With many aged care facilities still in lockdown and families limiting visits, the issue of loneliness among Australia's elderly population has become more profound.
Experts are advising regular contact via online platforms to foster connection but the most socially disadvantaged in our society often don't have these resources.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues this age bracket is now even more at risk of being lonely as they become socially distant from their loved ones.
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To resolve this issue of loneliness among aged care residents, people across WA have come up with creative solutions.
In an effort to maintain connection between residents and their loved ones, Home Instead Senior Care has worked with a local residential care facility to reduce loneliness among residents.
Home Instead caregiver Fiona said this especially helps residents like Sue Monger who suffer from dementia.
"With Sue's degree of dementia, we weren't sure if this would be well received but knew we needed to at least try," she said.
"Sue engaged happily with her family at the window.
"She loved seeing her little dog Abby, everyone chatted and Charlie sang a song for her.
"It was a wonderful occasion for the family," Fiona said.
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The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has now called for submissions about the impact of COVID-19 on the sector.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on all aspects of Australia's economy and society, including the delivery of aged care services," the commissioners said on Tuesday.
"In order to understand that impact fully, the commissioners are seeking the views of those people directly affected."
It wants submissions from people receiving aged care services, their families or supporters, aged care service providers and workers.
