A The system

Knowledge is power

Having first-hand knowledge about the support you can get for your ageing parents is essential in being able to provide them with the best care

Caring for your elderly parents can be very challenging. We’re lucky in Australia that the Federal Government is committed to providing assistance to make growing old and caring for our elders easier. Knowing that help and financial support are available somehow makes the journey more bearable.

Life is all about preparation. As the primary carer, having firsthand knowledge about the support you can get for your ageing parents is essential in being able to provide them with the best care available.

Meanwhile, you can relay all this information to your parents, too. That way they won’t be clueless about what they need to prepare, such as the documents discussed earlier.

You can also get help from your siblings or other extended family members. Share responsibilities with them, and discuss aged-care arrangements now. That way you will be ready to deal with the situation when it comes. After all, it is easier to go about this phase of life when everyone is co-operating and sharing the load. ACG