A1-Integrating Spiritual and Emotional Wellbeing into Social Prescribing: The Expanding Role of Onsite Pharmacists in Aged Care
Podium 1
11:00 AM - 11:20 AMWed
Podium 1
GP & Pharmacy
Speakers
Rachael Wass
CEO
Meaningful Ageing Australia
As aged care evolves toward a more person-centred and values-driven model, the integration of spiritual and emotional wellbeing is no longer optional, it is essential. This presentation explores how these dimensions of care can be meaningfully embedded within social prescribing frameworks to enhance quality of life, dignity, and connection for older adults. We examine the emerging role of onsite pharmacists not only as medication experts but as pivotal contributors to holistic wellbeing. Positioned at the intersection of clinical care and daily lived experience, pharmacists are uniquely placed to identify emotional distress, spiritual disconnection, and social isolation - often masked by polypharmacy or unmet care needs. Drawing on sector benchmarks, national guidelines, and real-world examples, this session highlights: • How spiritual and emotional wellbeing can be mapped into social prescribing pathways • The pharmacist’s role in initiating wellbeing conversations and facilitating referrals to spiritual care practitioners, allied health, and community supports • Collaborative models that align with strengthened Aged Care Standards, particularly Standard 1 and Standard 7 • Opportunities for data capture, workforce training, and governance to embed these practices sustainably By reframing the pharmacist’s scope through a wellbeing lens, aged care providers can unlock new avenues for meaningful ageing, whereby Pharmacists can work closely with Spiritual Care Practitioners, and Clinical Teams to support older people in holistic health.