Varying aged services available – it’s not all doom and gloom
Are you considering help but not sure where to get it? This is where My Aged Care can assist. The Australian Government’s aged care system provides services that can support older people with a range of needs. Here’s some information that might help you make your decision.
What types of care are available?
- Staying in your own home
Most people prefer living in their own home, but might not be able to keep up with tasks like cleaning, cooking, or house repairs. If you find yourself in this situation, there are services available to give you extra help around the house. They range from basic support like help with housework or meal preparation to more complex care like nursing help with bathing and getting dressed.
- Care in an aged care home
If staying at home isn’t a possibility anymore, you can move into a supported environment like an aged care home (sometimes called a nursing home). There are varying levels of care available depending on your needs, with options for 24-hour care if needed. Aged care homes generally include all accommodation-related services as well as personal care services and allow you to still be part of a community.
- After-hospital care (or transition care)
For people who are ready to be discharged from hospital after an illness or injury, but may still need support to get back on their feet, My Aged Care can help. After-hospital care, which includes such services as physiotherapy, access to social worker, or nursing support, focuses on your individual goals to help you return to a state of independence.
- Short-term care (respite care)
If you are being cared for by a loved one and they need to take a break (for example, to undergo a medical procedure), you might benefit from short-term care. These services ensure you are still being cared for while your carer takes a break from the usual arrangement.
How much will it cost?
The Australian Government subsidises a range of aged care services in Australia. There are eligibility requirements and you will be assessed to determine your aged care needs. It is expected that you will contribute towards the cost of your care if you can afford to do so. To find out if you’re eligible, visit our article on the criteria for government-subsidised aged care here. You can discuss possible fees and eligibility for Australian Government aged care services with My Aged Care Home support services
The fees will vary depending on services and the service provider. Contact My Aged Care and your preferred service provider for more information about specific costs.
- Home care packages
Your service provider may ask you to pay either a basic daily fee (of up to 17.5 per cent of the single basic Age Pension) or an income-tested care fee if your income is over a certain amount.
It’s a good idea to have some information about your finances, such as annual income, value of financial assets and debts, and details about the family home before you contact My Aged Care.
- Aged care home
You could be asked to pay a basic daily fee (covering the cost of meals, laundry and so on), a means-tested fee, an accommodation payment or fees for additional optional services.
To get an estimate of the costs for home care packages or residential care, you can use My Aged Care’s fee estimator here.
How do you access the services?
You will need to contact My Aged Care directly on 1800 200 422. The staff at the contact centre will ask you a range of questions to get an idea of your needs and direct you to the next step of the process.
To find out more information, visit the My Aged Care website here.
Related links:
The importance of community in retirement
8 steps to mentally prepare yourself for retirement
6 questions you must ask yourself before downsizing