Abstract
The global rise in aging populations presents challenges that transcend borders while reflecting diverse cultural nuances. From East Asia’s filial piety to the independence-driven ethos of Western societies, the care of older adults is shaped by traditions and evolving social dynamics. Complaints management must transition from a reactive process to a proactive, transformative tool that respects diverse voices, honors cultural differences, and empowers aging individuals to shape their care. This vision rests on three pillars. First, Cultural Sensitivity bridges gaps through cross-cultural training, diverse mediation networks, and partnerships with cultural leaders, ensuring complaints are resolved with empathy and understanding. Second, Family and Community Dynamics highlights the centrality of families in elder care, advocating for family-driven complaint frameworks, global support forums, and community-led initiatives that address tensions collaboratively. Finally, Social Relationships and Independence focuses on restoring dignity through consumer advisory councils, technology-enabled connectivity, and socially inclusive care models. To achieve this, global collaboration is vital. Unified complaint analytics, standardized satisfaction metrics, and a repository of transformative case studies will drive systemic improvements worldwide. This is more than a call to resolve grievances—it is a bold invitation to reimagine complaints as opportunities to innovate, empower, and lead. By uniting efforts across cultures, we can create a future where aging is met with dignity, every complaint becomes a story heard, and every voice matters. Together, let us shape a world where inclusion knows no borders.
Presenters
Steve AivaliotisMediator, Aged Care Complaints, Proactive Complaints Management, Victoria, Australia
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Social and Cultural Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
COMPLAINTS, CULTURAL SENSITIVITY, EMPOWERMENT, INDEPENDENCE, COLLABORATION, EQUITY, INNOVATION, DIGNITY
