Ulrika
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Many years ago when Ulrika had an accident that left her with disabilities, her mother, who had a limited understanding of English, had to fill in her medical and legal paperwork.
Recently, when her mother developed dementia and began to revert to her first language, it was Ulrika who helped her mother with the paperwork.
Ulrika told the Royal Commission it was then that she became aware of the barriers that still exist for people with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
‘If l wasn’t there and able to support my mum during this time, especially during [COVID-19] lockdowns, l believe that the overall costs for our family and the community would be a lot higher for all of us,’ Ulrika said.
Ulrika’s mother had arrived in Australia after the Secord World War without being able to speak English. Her mother struggled to communicate with doctors and schools, as well as deal with everyday paperwork.
Recently, when her mother had a fall and was admitted to hospital, Ulrika realised that those barriers still exist and can increase the distress of people with dementia.
‘Restless, fear and wanting to go home, [and a] short-term throw back to her birth language made me realise how much constant support, and the safety concerns that can occur with anyone with dementia or disabilities, are needed … in this situation,’ said Ulrika. ‘Luckily, l am able to interpret when needed.’
She said it was important that the families of people with disability, especially those from linguistically diverse backgrounds, be encouraged ‘to remain as long as possible’ with the patient.
‘Realistically, staff in most emergency departments, especially since COVID, can’t offer the support that is needed with all the other commitments and trauma they have to deal with.’
She would also like more signs and documents accompanied by translations, to reduce the risk of miscommunication and to avoid abuse.
‘Culturally and language wise, not having the ability to communicate outside their own cultural groups, also encourages the possibility of financial, physical and emotional abuse.’
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.