Who can Access Aged Care at Home?
Most older Australians prefer to age at home, with studies indicating that around 90% of seniors value their independence and familiar surroundings. Many enjoy a sense of freedom and the flexibility to spend time with family and friends. However, as people age, a common concern is the potential loss of independence.
There is an answer that allows seniors to have their cake and eat it too, and rightly so: home care services. Home care services make everyday living easier. People can enjoy living in familiar surroundings whilst having the reassurance of support when they need it.
What are home care services?
Home care services refer to various care and support options designed to help you live comfortably at home. Home care addresses everyday challenges and promotes independence. Home care can also promote your social engagement and community participation. Some popular home care services include:
Home help – assistance with house cleaning and general home duties.
Home Care Package services – a range of home care services to suit your needs.
Personal care – assistance with daily hygiene, dressing, and care routines.
Domestic Assistance – support with daily living at home and errands.
Transport – a reliable transport option to get you from A to B.
Social Support – keeping you socially connected to your community.
Gardening – a range of gardening services to maintain a tidy yard.
Respite care – care for a loved one at home, ensuring safety and wellbeing.
Home Maintenance – odd jobs around the home to maintain a safe living space.
Am I eligible for aged care services at home?
The Australian government provides funding for home care services. This can be via The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a Home Care Package. Eligibility is based on age and need.
For age, you must be 65 years or older. Or 50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people. If you are aged 50 years or older and live disability, or dementia or have other care needs not met through other specialist services, or you are homeless, or at risk of being homeless, you may be eligible.
For need, you will have to indicate which daily activities you require help with, and what your living situation is now and expected to be in the future. For example, you may meet the eligibility criteria if you require help with:
- Mobility, such as getting out of bed, chairs, or walking.
- Taking a bath or shower, toileting, and getting dressed.
- Preparing or eating a meal.
- Taking medications.
- Driving or taking public transport.
- Shopping for groceries.
- Managing money and paying bills.
- House cleaning.
The first step is to find out if you should apply for an assessment. This can be done by calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 442. Or apply online at myagedcare.gov.au. The application for an assessment may take about 20 minutes to complete.
Why choose Simply Helping for aged care at home?
Simply Helping understands the challenges of ageing. More importantly, we recognise the value of independence. If you receive a Home Care Package and are looking for aged care at home, here’s why we’re the right choice:
- Flexibility: Customised home care that adapts to your changing needs.
- Experience: Simply Helping has been providing trusted home care services for more than 25 years.
- Locally owned: Simply Helping has locations all around Australia—independently owned by locals.
- Easy to contact: Being a local home care provider means you can contact us easily and quickly. You won’t experience the frustrations of dealing with a large call centre. Your call will be answered by a local Simply Helping team member.
- Our team: All team members are qualified and compassionate. We are dedicated to helping locals live their best lives in the comfort of their homes.
Get the support you need
To discover an easier way of living at home as you age, contact Simply Helping. Talk to our friendly team about tailored aged care solutions to support your needs.
*Updated May 2024
