Whether considering options for yourself or deciding how best to help someone close to you, aged care is a complex area requiring careful thought. The uncertainty surrounding where to move, how much it will cost and where the money will come from can be overwhelming and stressful.
This article provides the basics. You will understand the steps you need to take, where to find answers and how we can help you make an informed decision.
There are typically three steps you need to take before moving in to an aged care facility.
Step 1: Approval
Before entering an aged care facility your health must be assessed to determine your eligibility for care. The assessment can be performed by any doctor, nurse or social worker who is a member of an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT, or ACAS in Victoria).
You can visit myagedcare.gov.au to request an assessment. To read more, click here.
Step 2: Find a home
To make sure you find a home that you are comfortable in and that will suit your needs, you may like to visit a few different places.
You can apply to as many homes as you like. The accommodation costs for all aged care facilities are published on the Government’s aged care website myagedcare.gov.au. This website also provides description of the rooms and services available at the facility. To read more, click here.
Step 3: Organise your finances
On entry to a facility, you will be required to pay an accommodation contribution or accommodation payment. Some people will have their accommodation costs met in full or part by the Government, while others will need to pay the accommodation price agreed with the aged care home. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will advise which applies to you based on an assessment of your assets and income. There will also be a basic daily fee to pay and there may be a means-tested care fee which is determined by your level of income and assets.
Some facilities offer you a higher level of service or a higher standard of accommodation or food for an additional daily fee. To read more, click here.
Aged Care & Home Care can seem complex. We have a special offer for general advice for $225.00.
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