Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has met with Alfred “Ormy” Hall, a 101-year-old resident of Estia Health’s Aged Care facility in Benalla to discuss his concerns over the lack of dental options for aged care residents.
Mr Hall had reached out to Ms Cleeland about his issues being able to access a dentist as he is no longer physically able to make the trip outside of the facility.
There was previously a community dental clinic at Benalla Health, however this service was recently moved to Wangaratta, causing undue hardship for may who previously utilised this valuable community asset.
Ms Cleeland was impressed by the determination of Mr Hall and has now begun the push for a travelling dentist to visit the facility.
“Speaking with Ormy, I was surprised to hear many residents had not been able to access dental services in quite some time,” Ms Cleeland said.
“His ability to push hard for what’s right and campaign for this issue is truly remarkable for someone approaching his 102nd birthday.
“Getting a travelling dentist into the facility would not only help Ormy, but allow several other residents to receive some additional care that they have not been able to get.
“I want to sincerely thank Ormy for bringing this to my attention, it is a privilege to fight for matters like this that will directly help members of our community.”
Ms Cleeland has written to the Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers, calling for any government assistance to ensure some of the community’s most vulnerable people had access to an essential service like a dentist.