Navigating the aged care journey can feel overwhelming, but My Aged Care simplifies the process as the Australian Government’s starting point for subsidised care services. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or a loved one, this guide explains the services available, steps to access them, and how Catholic Healthcare can assist.
It's important to note that upcoming Aged Care Reforms may impact eligibility, funding, and services offered, so decisions are subject to change. Staying informed ensures you access the most up-to-date support and guidance available.
Types of Care available to Older People
There are three different types of care available for older people in Australia, these are:
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Home Care Services:
These are designed to help you remain independent in your own home. They can include assistance with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, or personal care. Other support areas include health management, such as nursing, and social assistance to help you stay connected with the community.
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Residential Aged Care:
For those who require more intensive support, residential aged care provides around-the-clock care in a safe and supportive environment. Residential aged care homes offer accommodation, professionally cooked meals, tailored care, and social activities to help residents live comfortably.
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Respite Care:
Respite care offers temporary relief for regular caregivers, allowing them to take a break while ensuring loved ones receive care and companionship. This can be provided at home or in residential aged care. Our respite care services are flexible and tailored to meet everyone's unique needs, providing caregivers peace of mind.
Care Types and Features
|
Care Type |
Services |
Eligibility |
Where provided |
|
Home Care Services |
Daily tasks, including support with bathing and hygiene, home and garden maintenance, transport and cleaning and laundry health support including podiatry, physiotherapy and help with impairments, day and overnight respite, social outings, home modifications, and rehabilitation services |
Requires assessment (RAS) |
At home |
|
Residential Aged Care |
24/7 care in your own room in a residential home meal, activities |
Requires assessment (ACAS) |
Residential Aged Care Home |
|
Respite Care |
Temporary care relief |
Assessment depends on duration
|
In your own home or in a Residential Aged Care Home |
Navigating The My Aged Care System
My Aged Care should be your first point of call when deciding that you or your loved one may need extra support. It simplifies the aged care system into easy steps, however if you need help especially with understanding how the new Aged Care Act changes affect you, providers like Catholic Healthcare can help:
Learn About Different Types of Care:
My Aged Care provides detailed information on the types of aged care support options to help you determine what best suits your needs.
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Take An Assessment:
To access government-funded aged care services, you must undergo an assessment. Depending on your needs, this will be conducted by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or Regional Assessment Service (RAS) who evaluate your eligibility for different services.
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Find A Provider:
Once assessed, you can search for aged care providers in your local area that meet your specific needs. My Aged Care offers a handy directory of providers, making it easier to compare and choose the right one.
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Plan and understand the cost of aged care:
With financial planning and cost tools and resources such as a fee estimator, My Aged Care can help you plan and understand how aged care fees work If you don’t receive a relevant income support payment from Services Australia or the DVA, you may also need to apply for an aged care calculation of your cost of care from Services Australia.
How Catholic Healthcare Can Help
Navigating aged care services does not have to be daunting. With the right information and support, you can make informed decisions that enhance your quality of life. At Catholic Healthcare, our experienced and compassionate team can guide you through the My Aged Care process, help you access services while you wait, and advise on the best funding options for your unique circumstances.
We provide compassionate, person-centred care across all aged care services. Our team is happy to work with you and your loved ones to ensure the journey through the aged care system is seamless.
Contact us today for more information on how we can provide tailored support.
About Catholic Healthcare
Catholic Healthcare aims to enhance life through compassionate care for our residents and clients. With over 30 years of experience, we are committed to delivering high-quality aged care across New South Wales and South East Queensland. Stay connected with us to learn more about our initiatives, programs, and the incredible individuals who make Catholic Healthcare a place of care and connection.