Aged care options

There are a myriad of aged care options available in Australia, depending on individual needs.

Eligibility to access many aged care services is established following a free assessment by a representative from either ACAS (Aged Care Assessment Service) in Victoria or ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) in the other states.

There are three categories of aged care services:

I. Assisting a person to stay at home

Home and Community Care Programs (HACC) are for those who only need basic help with everyday tasks, such as preparing meals. An ACAT/ACAS assessment is not required, and some services charge a small fee that varies between states and territories. Fees charged vary depending on the service provided. Special arrangements can also be made if a person cannot afford to pay.

Extended Aged Care at Home packages (EACH) are for those who need higher level and more tailored care but want to stay at home for as long as possible. ACAT/ACAS assessment is required.

Extended Aged Care at Home Dementia packages (EACH D) are designed for those with dementia who require tailored care at home. ACAT/ACAS assessment is required.

Community Aged Care Packages (CACP) provide a fully managed program of community care, especially for seniors who have the most complex care needs. ACAT/ACAS assessment is required. Usually a fee is charged to contribute to the cost of a package. If a senior cannot pay the fee, they will not be denied a service that is required.

II. Care required on a short-term basis

Transition Care Programs provide personal and allied health care (e.g. physiotherapy) in the person’s home or live-in setting for a period of up to 18 weeks. An ACAT/ACAS assessment is required. A fee may be charged to contribute to the cost of care, depending on the circumstances.

Respite Care is for those who need some time out from being at home, and who feel they would benefit from a short-tem stay in a care facility. ACAT/ACAS assessment is required, and the costs charged will depend on the level and frequency of respite services accessed.

III. Care required through an Aged Care home

ACAT/ACAS assessment is required to access an Aged Care home, and the costs involved are based on a common fee levied to all care recipients (‘basic fee’) plus an additional fee based on your income (‘income tested fee’). An accommodation bond or charge may also apply depending on the person’s level of assets.

Low-level care homes (hostels) provide accommodation and personal care, such as help with dressing and showering, and nursing care (as needed).

High-level care homes (nursing homes) provide care for people who are more frail and who need continuous nursing support.

Aged care services are a valuable yet complex system designed to support our most vulnerable citizens and help them live comfortably and safely with dignity and respect.

In the next edition we will cover the Centrelink assessment process for those in Aged Care facilities.

For further advice on aged care needs, for you or your loved ones, speak to us today or visit the Department of Health and Ageing website: www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au