Aged Care in Australia The "How To" of Aged Care

Aged care in Australia is a comprehensive system that provides support and services to older Australians who need assistance with daily living, health care, or accommodation. The system is regulated by the Australian Government and includes a mix of government-funded services, private providers, and community-based support.

1. Overview of Aged Care in Australia
Aged care in Australia is designed to help older individuals maintain their independence while receiving the necessary support. It includes various services such as in-home care, residential aged care (nursing homes), respite care, and palliative care.
The system is primarily funded and regulated by the Australian Government under the Aged Care Act 1997. Additional funding comes from user contributions, state and territory governments, and private providers.

2. Types of Aged Care Services
Aged care services in Australia are categorized into three main types:
A. Home Care (In-Home Support)
Designed for older Australians who wish to remain in their own homes but need support with daily tasks. Services include:

• Domestic assistance (cleaning, cooking)
• Personal care (bathing, dressing)
• Nursing and allied health services
• Social support
• Transport services

Two key programs under home care:

1. Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) - Basic support for those needing low-level assistance.
2. Home Care Packages (HCP) - Four levels of funding based on individual needs (Level 1: basic care, Level 4: high-level care).

B. Residential Aged Care (Nursing Homes)
For individuals who need full-time care in a specialized facility. Services include:

• 24/7 nursing and personal care
• Meals and laundry services
• Social and recreational activities
• Dementia-specific care
• Palliative care

C. Respite Care
Temporary care for older people to provide relief for primary caregivers. Available as:

• In-home respite - Support provided at home.
• Centre-based respite - Day programs and activities.
• Residential respite - Short stays in aged care facilities.

D. Palliative Care
Focused on comfort and quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. It can be provided at home, in a hospice, or in an aged care facility.

3. How to Access Aged Care Services
A. Eligibility Assessment (My Aged Care)
Older Australians must be assessed to determine eligibility for government-funded aged care services. The process involves:

1. Contacting My Aged Care (via website or phone: 1800 200 422).
2. Assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or Regional Assessment Service (RAS).
3. Approval for Services - Based on needs, the individual is approved for CHSP, HCP, or residential aged care.

B. Choosing a Service Provider
After assessment, individuals can:

• Choose an aged care provider.
• Compare services and costs.
• Apply for financial assistance.

4. Costs and Funding
Aged care services in Australia are subsidized by the government, but individuals may need to contribute to costs based on income and assets.
A. Home Care Costs

• CHSP services require small co-payments.
• HCPs require:
  • Basic daily fee (optional for most)
  • Income-tested care fee (for higher-income individuals)
  • Government subsidy (varies based on package level)

B. Residential Aged Care Costs

• Basic daily fee (85% of the full pension)
• Means-tested care fee (based on income and assets)