What Are My Options for Aged Care In Australia?
It’s never too early to start thinking about aged care.
All too often, we hear about situations where people have had to make a quick, uninformed decision about aged care. For example, this may be after an unexpected hospital stay. Sadly, many Australians end up regretting the aged care choice they made in haste. They wish they had taken the time earlier to research and plan for an aged care solution that suits them.
So, what are the options for aged care in Australia? Here we outline the different types of aged care, to help you determine which option may suit your particular needs.
Government-funded aged care services
If you’re eligible, the government subsidises many types of aged care. This can include residential care, short-term care, and in home care. We’ll touch on all of these types of aged care options shortly. Funding from the government for aged care is offered through either the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), or a Home Care Package (HCP). Details on how to apply for a CHSP or HCP can be found on the My Aged Care website.
Residential Care
Residential care can also be known as a nursing home, aged care home, or aged care facility. Residential care includes accommodation, meals, and 24-hour care. Staff assist residents with everyday living. This includes personal hygiene, meals, laundry, medication management, continence, and wound treatment. Many of these facilities also offer specialised health and medical care such as palliative care and dementia care.
Retirement Village
Retirement villages are housing developments for older people. Many offer resort-style living with a range of accommodation options, and amenities such as pools, tennis court, and cinema. You may consider a retirement village if you don’t need high level 24-hour care that is offered in residential care. It’s important to know that retirement villages are not subsidised by the government, you will need to fund this yourself.
Supported Living
Supported living is an option which combines the care benefits of residential care with the independent lifestyle of a retirement village. Supported living is usually self-funded and is not subsidised by the government.
In Home Care
In home care is the aged care option preferred by most Australians. You can remain living in the comfort of your family home, whilst receiving the care you need. Home care services are delivered by a home care provider of your choice. Services can include;
- Personal care – assistance with grooming, bathing, medication management, and more.
- Home Help – someone to lend a helping hand with the housework and domestic chores.
- Transport – safely taking you to appointments, shopping, or to community activities.
- Home Maintenance – odd jobs around the home to ensure it’s safe to live in.
- Gardening – clearing debris, keeping the lawns trim and the garden neat and tidy.
- Social Support – a companion for friendly in home social visits or support in the community.
- Community Nursing – specialised nursing care delivered in the comfort of home.
- Palliative care – dignified care and support at home for a family member.
In home care has many benefits. Many older people fear a loss of independence. With home care, you can maintain the lifestyle you’re accustomed to, and retain your community connections. Having choice over which home care provider you use, and which home care services you need, means you remain in control of your life, and keep your independence.
To learn more about in home care, contact your nearest Simply Helping office here.
Short-term care
There are three types of short-term care available. The first is restorative care. This is designed to help slow or reverse the difficulties you’re having with daily tasks. Restorative care can include cooking assistance, personal care, and other professional health services. Transition care is another type of short-term care. Transition care helps your recovery at home after a hospital stay. Respite care is the third short-term care available. This care can be provided for a few hours in the home, a day in the community, or for a few nights in residential care. Respite care allows you or your carer to take a break. You can learn more about short-term care on the My Aged Care website.
