How to access aged care services
Knowing where to start
None of us like to think about a time when we might need to have support with our daily lives. So when the time comes, many older people do not know where to start, and it can be complex.
I encourage everyone to consider aged care services as soon as a need for support arises in order to maintain as much independence and capacity as possible in each particular circumstance.
To access most Federal Government subsidised aged care services, a person must be registered with the Australian Government’s gateway, ‘My Aged Care’, via the website: www.myagedcare.gov.au or contact centre, phone: 1800 200 422. Access to Federal Government subsidised aged care requires an assessment for and approval of eligibility for services such as residential aged care, respite, Home Care Packages (HCP) and Community Home Support Programs (CHSP). Carer support options can also be accessed on the MyAgedCare website.
The MyAgedCare portal is the single pathway for individuals to seek services that will assist them to sustain their quality of life in their particular circumstance. It provides information to assist people to choose a service provider, once they have been advised of eligibility for a program. This includes information such as service providers in your area, prices the provider charges, aspects related to quality, and so on. It also offers a feature to compare service providers. You can also consider changing a service provider once in receipt of an approved service.
Aged care services in residential care homes or via a Home Care Package are means-tested, in addition to the basic fees all are asked to pay. For part or non-pensioners, the limit for means testing is available on the My Aged Care website. Fees are payable for all service types and a process for applying to the government for consideration in terms of financial hardship.
People have variable personal capacity to supplement their own support, and I encourage the use of an individual’s personal capacity to pay for additional support in sustaining quality of life and involvement in the community.
My Aged Care also lists private services available for people who prefer not to participate in any government subsidised service or whilst on a waiting list for government-subsidised services.
If you would rather not contact My Aged Care, a service provider can make a referral to My Aged Care on your behalf, if you have given your consent to do so.
Alternatively, to guide you through the system, there is a free service called Agedcare Alternatives, where volunteer ‘Options Guides’ assist with face to face help. Agedcare Alternatives is located at 1/445 Fullarton Road, Highgate. Call in during business hours or make an appointment on 8408 4600.
Need aged care services? Find out how to apply.
Six Steps to Aged Care Services