“Even younger people in their 70s are developing it…we can’t get volunteers to help because they’re just not capable.”
Residents say the problem is not just the rising numbers, but the lack of clear rules for what happens when a resident with dementia refuses to leave or accept support.
Under Queensland's Retirement Villages Act 1999, operators cannot remove a resident without the consent of their enduring power of attorney (EPA) or an order from the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
ARQRV president Judy Mayfield said both options are slow, contested and open to challenge. Families have even challenged removal attempts through the Anti-Discrimination Commission or Human Rights Commission.
“Operators are walking between no authority at all to act, and potential legal action if they do,” she told the meeting.