How to get the most from your home care package

For many Australians, home care packages subsidised by the government help people to remain living in the comfort of their own home as they grow older.

There are different types of government funding to cater for varying levels of home care support. Depending on your needs, you can either receive funding through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), or through a Home Care Package (HCP) which has four levels of funding.

Although the process of applying for a home care package and going through the assessment process may be daunting for some, the benefits can be worthwhile.

Tips to get the most out of your Home Care Package

• RESEARCH

It’s difficult to make an informed decision if you don’t have accurate information. When it comes to funding for home care packages and services, the first step is to research suitable home care service providers. Find out if the service provider is experienced, reputable, responsive, and flexible. They should also offer a full suite of home care services that can be tailored to suit your needs.

• SERVICES

It’s also important to research and understand what services you can fund using your home care package. Generally speaking, home care packages provide funding for services that keep you healthy, safe in your own home, and help you interact with the community. According to your needs and goals, prioritise which services are more beneficial for you.

Popular home care services include:

• Personal Care such as bathing, dressing, grooming and more.
• Domestic Care or Home Help with cleaning and other chores around the home.
• Transport for appointments and social outings.
• Shopping assistance and meal preparation.
• In-home respite
• Social support either in the home or in the community.
• Home maintenance and Gardening.
• Dog walking.

Services that are not covered by your home care package funding include:

• Day to day living expenses such as food, utility bills, and clothing.
• Mortgage payments or rent.
• Entertainment and holidays.
• Products and services already covered by Medicare or Pharmaceutical Benefits.

• TAKE CONTROL

Consumer Directed Care is a new approach to how people receive their home care services. Remember, you are in control. You have choice around which services you need, and how they are delivered. You can choose the level of involvement you wish to have in managing your home care package. And, most importantly, you can choose your preferred home care service provider.