The Importance of Cultural Fit in Aged Care Services

Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. With over 300 languages spoken and people from all walks of life calling this country home, aged care needs to keep up with this diversity. For many older Aussies, especially those from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, finding culturally respectful In-Home Aged Care can make a massive difference in their happiness, comfort, and overall wellbeing.

Why Does Cultural Fit Matter in Aged Care?

When someone is receiving care in their home, they should feel safe, respected, and understood. But that can be tricky if their care worker doesn’t speak the same language, understand their traditions, or know how they like to eat or pray.
The best aged care providers are those that value culture, listen closely, and make sure their staff have the right training. When there's a good cultural fit, it creates trust. Clients feel seen and supported, and carers can do their job better. Everyone wins.

Language Makes a Big Difference

It’s hard to explain how you feel or what you need if the other person doesn’t speak your language. Nearly 1 in 5 Australians receiving in-home aged care prefer to speak a language other than English.

That’s why it’s so important to ask aged care companies if they have staff who speak your loved one’s language or if they can arrange for an interpreter. Language is so much more than just words; it’s how people express emotion, tell stories, and connect.

It’s Not Just About Food, But That Helps Too

Food is a big part of culture. Whether it’s halal, kosher, vegetarian, or simply food cooked in a way that’s familiar, culturally appropriate meals can go a long way in helping someone feel more at home.

The right aged care provider will ask about food preferences and include them in the care plan. They might even help with shopping and cooking to make sure meals are just right.

Respecting Religion and Routine

Religion, prayer times, dress codes, and personal space can all vary depending on someone’s culture. For instance, some clients may prefer a carer of the same gender for personal care. Others might have set times for prayer or follow rules about modesty and touch.
A culturally aware carer will know all this and adapt. Good Aged Care Companies, such as those you’ll find in regional areas like Wagga Wagga, take this seriously by training their teams in cultural sensitivity and making sure everyone is treated with dignity.

Questions to Ask When Partnering with an Aged Care Provider

If your loved one is from a CALD background, here are a few questions to ask:

• Do you have care workers who speak our language?

• Can we meet the carer before we start services?

• How do you support different religious or cultural practices?

• Do you provide culturally appropriate food or shopping help?

• Can you involve our family in decision-making?

• How do you train staff in cultural awareness?

Reputable aged care companies will be happy to answer.

Family Matters in Many Cultures

In many communities, caring for older family members is considered a duty and an honour. Some families might feel unsure or even guilty about asking for outside help.

But getting professional support doesn’t mean stepping back; it means working as a team. A good in-home aged care service understands that families want to stay involved and will include them in decisions, care planning, and daily updates.

Building Trust with Culturally Aware Care

Trust isn’t built overnight. But it does grow when clients and families see that their culture is valued, not ignored. This can look like:

• Celebrating cultural holidays

• Playing familiar music

• Connecting clients with others from similar backgrounds and local cultural events

• Hiring staff who understand migration stories and cultural values

Quality Aged Care Providers understand that culture shapes how people age and what they need.

Summing Up

Cultural fit matters in aged care. It’s not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. When people feel respected in their own home, their health, mood, and sense of self all improve. That’s what good care should do.

At Home at Heart in Wagga Wagga, we believe everyone deserves care that fits who they are. This includes their language, culture, food, and faith.  As one of the trusted aged care companies in the region, we’re here to help you find that perfect match.