As we grow older, our needs evolve - from issues with balance and agility to how quickly we recuperate from an accident. Fortunately, there is support available for those interested in continuing independent living at home as they age; and an in home care plan is vital.
Planning for the care years
In the upcoming four decades, Australia's swiftly growing elderly population will transform it economically and socially. Getting a head-start on aged care decisions can assist you in relieving stress for both yourself and your family, as well as providing insights into necessary steps to make sure adequate levels of support are available while optimising your financial position. It's important to be aware of your options and the role of the family home.
As people live longer, they need to prepare for the three phases of retirement. The care years are a reality. During this phase of life, extra assistance may be needed in either a home-based setting or a residential facility.
To maximise independence and keep you in your own home for as long as possible, it's essential to minimise your frailty risk beforehand with proper planning. While government subsidies can make things more affordable, having sufficient savings enables greater autonomy and variety when making decisions about options available to you.
Maximising independence with an in home care plan
Seniors in Australia generally favour ageing at home rather than moving into a residential care facility. This can be achieved through the support and guidance of their spouse, family members, or friends; however, assistance from a Home Care Service may also be available either with private funding or subsidised by the government. With four levels of approved packages offered to those who qualify for financial aid (based upon an assessment), you can still remain in your home while receiving appropriate help as needed.
Accessing Home Care subsidies
With a ‘national queue’ for home care subsidies you may receive a low level of care while you are being assessed. Whilst you are waiting for your assessment, we recommend you start researching home care providers in your area so you can roll out an in home care plan once your package is allocated to you.
Steps for Home Care subsidies:
STEP 1 – Assessment
Arrange for an Aged Care Assessment Team/Service (ACAT/ACAS) to assess your eligibility.
STEP 2 – Research Providers
Research providers in your area and understand what services they offer and their reputation. See if any have waitlists for services on offer.
If you have already selected a provider it is quicker to transition to care.
You can elect to fund some services privately while you wait for your care packages to be approved.
STEP 3 – Start Subsidised Care
Once your package is allocated, you can finalise the details of services with your selected provider.
You will likely need to sign a home care agreement, but your provider will walk you through the requirements.
What Type of Services Are Subsidised?
Services that your subsidies may go towards include:
Bathing, hygiene and grooming
Nursing
Podiatry, physiotherapy and other therapies
Meals and food preparation
Cleaning, laundry and other chores
Home or garden maintenance
Changes to your home to help increase or maintain your mobility
Transport
Aids to help stay independent such as walking aids and mechanical devices for lifting
Getting assessed
If it is just everyday tasks that you require help with, then you may be eligible for support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme. Otherwise, for a more complex or higher level of support, a Home Care Package might suit you.
To find out which programme and level of care you are eligible for, you can apply for an assessment through the My Aged Care website. You can complete an application online for yourself or on behalf of a family member or friend.
Home Care subsidies and in home care plan have helped many older Australians maintain their independence for longer. Many people enter residential care after an emergency - such as an illness or accident - leaves them unable to live at home. Knowing your options and having a strategy for managing living at home financially and with support services can benefit you or your loved one to maximise their independence. Reach out to see how we can help you today.
Disclaimer: Prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information in this article, Olive Grove Financial Advice recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. Information in this article was correct and current as of 23 March 2023.
Olive Grove Financial Advice is operated by Bill Savellis through The Financial Advisor (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 72 619 546 431, who is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 1278394) of Havana Financial Services Pty Ltd.