ACG SA & NT Edition 25 by DPS Publishing

From the General Manager

Welcome to the 25 th edition of the AgedCareGuide forSouthAustraliaandtheNorthernTerritory . For over 20 years, the AgedCareGuide — previously known as the DPSGuidetoAgedCare — has provided seniors and their families with essential information about aged care.

Our print and online publications are essential tools to help you understand and access aged care services — from home and community care to residential accommodation.

We have created easy-to-follow flow charts to help you visualise and further your understanding of the aged care process.

You can follow along with this book as it breaks down the aged care journey into five distinct steps; from researching care to managing your services, you will find detailed descriptions of what is available to you and how to access it.

You will find a comprehensive list of government-subsidised residential accommodation and approved Home Care Package providers, along with in-home care, products and services in the back-half of this guide.

You can use the printed AgedCareGuide in conjunction with our website, AgedCareGuide.com.au , for more information about the services offered by individual aged care homes, home care providers, professional services and products. Simply type in the associated ‘DPS Web ID’ number from this book in the space provided on the website to link directly to a chosen home, service or product. Current bed vacancies, as well as home care availability and retirement units for sale or lease, are also listed on the website.

Alternatively, you may wish to use our Compare & Connect tool to help you find and compare aged care providers that best meet your needs and search criteria in your preferred area to help with the decision-making process.

We are promoting transparency in the sector and opening up dialogue between consumers and providers through Ratings and Reviews on AgedCareGuide.com.au , which gives you the opportunity to share positive or negative stories about your aged care experience with a service and for providers to respond to this feedback and address any potential concerns.

We would like to wish you all the best as you embark on your journey in locating the home or services to suit your needs. When engaging a service, please advise the aged care home, retirement village, community care provider or product and service provider that you found their details in the Aged Care Guide. We welcome any suggestions on the information we can provide in the next edition of the AgedCareGuide or on AgedCareGuide.com.au . To further assist in your journey, simply email our Managing Editor David McManus at david.mcmanus@dps.com.au. We look forward to hearing from you.

— Brad Keighran

From the General Manager

COTA message

Transparency of information is one of the many key things COTA Australia has advocated on aged care reforms throughout the years. The Royal Commission into the Quality & Safety of Aged Care highlighted so many issues and revealed shocking stories of the experiences people have had. It set Australia on a path of serious and fundamental reform.

Throughout this, Council on the Ageing (COTA) Australia has consistently and forcefully advocated for aged care that is of high quality, transparent and based on aged care services that are delivered in a way that upholds older people’s human rights.

The Royal Commission accepted many of these points and we are now seeing the roll-out of a new rights-based Aged Care Act, redesign of the Support at Home system to help more people remain independent in their own homes — where most people want to stay as they age, new transparent information sources like the Star Rating system, more staffing in aged care facilities and better funding for better care.

The job is not yet done, but COTA Australia remains on the case in aged care reform and in many other areas that impact on your life, like health care and employment. Tackling the impacts of ageism head-on. Ensuring that older people have the same rights — including access to good information to make their own decisions — without question.

Finding the right aged care service for yourself or assisting your loved one is one of the most important things you will ever have to do. Yet, it can be hard to find the information you need to help you make this decision.

This guide can assist you to find and make the right decision. It is an independent resource to make you aware of options available in your local area. You can order a hard copy to browse through and share with families or friends. Alternatively, you may go online at AgedCareGuide.com.au if that’s your preference, where you can filter your searches to just those services in a local area and request a quote from the provider you select.

COTA Australia, as the national peak advocacy body for people over 50 years of age, has partnered with DPS because we both value and focus on the need for you to have good information to make choices. More than that though, AgedCareGuide.com.au gives you the opportunity to leave a review of the services — be they provided in the home, in a nursing home or a retirement village. All of us like to hear from our peers or others in the same situation about what is good, bad or indifferent when making decisions. Your experience and feedback provides more invaluable information for another person in their search and decision-making.

I hope you will find this guide useful in your decision-making and that you will share your experiences to help others in the same situation. We will continue the work to make aged care services better and uphold your rights in all of their interactions with you.

Wishing you all the best in finding the service that is right for you.

Patricia Sparrow CEO, COTA Australia

Aged Care Guide

South Australia & NT 2025, 25 TH Edition

Printed January 2025

RRP $44, inc GST

ManagingEditor

DavidMcManus

david.mcmanus@dps.com.au

GeneralManager

BradKeighran

DPSPublishingPtyLtd ● 1300186688 ● POBox1026,PasadenaSA5042 info@dps.com.au ● AgedCareGuide.com.au ● ABN53090793730 Advertising Distribution Proudlyproduced sales@dps.com.au distribution@dps.com.au andprinted 1300186688 1300186688 inAustralia

The factual material contained in this publication has been obtained from information supplied by government departments, industry and organisations, by personal interview and by telephone and correspondence. At the time of going to press the publisher believed that all information submitted for publication was accurate and complete. However, the publisher can take no responsibility for inaccuracies or incomplete information that may have been supplied to them in the course of their enquiries detailed above. The facts published indicate the result of those enquiries and no warranty as to their accuracy can be given. The information in this publication is general in nature and does not constitute financial, legal or other professional advice. Readers should consider whether the information is appropriate to their needs and seek professional advice tailored to their personal circumstances. Images within this publication may have been altered from their original format. © Copyright. No part of this publication can be used or reproduced in any format without express permission in writing from The Publisher. ® Aged Care Guide is a registered trademark.

Useful phone numbers and websites

Advocacy

Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS)

08 8232 5377 sa.agedrights.asn.au

CarerHelp carerhelp.com.au

Carers Australia

02 6122 9900 carersaustralia.com.au

COTA (NT)

08 8941 1004 cotant.org.au

COTA (SA)

08 8232 0422 cotasa.org.au

National Seniors

1300 765 050 nationalseniors.com.au

Older Person’s Advocacy Network (OPAN)

1800 700 600 opan.org.au

Cultural

Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing (PICAC)

03 8823 7979 culturaldiversity.com.au

Ethnic Link Services (SA)

08 8241 0201 unitingsa.com.au

Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia

02 6282 5755 fecca.org.au

Multicultural Aged Care (SA)

08 8241 9900 mac.org.au

Multicultural Communities Council of SA

08 8345 5266 mccsa.org.au

Multicultural Council of Northern Territory

08 8945 9122 mcnt.org.au

Translating and Interpreting Service

13 14 50 tisnational.gov.au

Government

Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission

1800 951 822 agedcarequality.gov.au

Department of Veterans’ Affairs

1800 838 372 dva.gov.au

My Aged Care

1800 200 422 myagedcare.gov.au

Services Australia — Aged Care Line

1800 227 475 servicesaustralia.gov.au/ageing

Services Australia — Carers & Disability

13 27 17 servicesaustralia.gov.au/carers

Services Australia — Medicare

13 20 11 servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare

Services Australia — Older Australians

13 23 00 servicesaustralia.gov.au/ageing

Health

Dementia Australia

1800 100 500 dementia.org.au

Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Services (DBMAS)

1800 699 799 dementia.com.au

Dementia Support Australia (DSA)

1800 699 799 dementia.com.au

National Continence Helpline

1800 330 066 continence.org.au

National Dementia Helpline

1800 100 500 dementia.org.au

Seniors Health Card

13 23 00 servicesaustralia.gov.au/ commonwealth-seniors-health-card

Legal

Darwin Community Legal Service

1800 812 953 dcls.org.au

Legal Services Commission Legal Helpline (SA)

1300 366 424 lsc.sa.gov.au

Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission

1800 019 343 legalaid.nt.gov.au

Office of the Public Advocate (SA)

1800 066 969 opa.sa.gov.au

Office of the Public Trustees (NT)

1800 810 979 nt.gov.au/law/processes/ about-public-trustee

South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)

1800 723 767 sacat.sa.gov.au

Other

Aged Care Guide

1300 186 688 AgedCareGuide.com.au

Carer Gateway

1800 422 737 carergateway.gov.au

Catalyst Foundation (SA)

1800 636 368 catalystfoundation.com.au

National Relay Service

1800 555 660 infrastructure.gov.au/ national-relay-service

ned (National Equipment Database)

1300 885 886 askned.com.au

Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling 1800 011 046 openarms.gov.au

Relationships Australia

1300 364 277 relationships.org.au

Seniors Card (NT)

1800 441 489 ntseniorscard.org.au

Seniors Card (SA)

1800 819 961 seniorscard.sa.gov.au

How to use the ACG

How to use the Aged Care

Guide

Information featured in the 25 th edition of this Aged Care Guide will help you to choose accommodation and care in South Australia & the Northern Territory.

The information in this guide will help you understand aged care, in-home and community care options in Australia.

The AgedCareGuide features a detailed directory that includes: in-home care services on pages 118–124, 159–161; Home Care Package providers on pages 130–136, 164–166; residential aged care facilities on pages 138–153, 168; services tailored to specific cultural backgrounds on pages 154–156, 169–170 and retirement homes on pages 171–175.

How do I find what I’m looking for?

The index on page 180 can help you to find the main information topics in this guide and can direct you to the different directory tables for aged care homes, retirement facilities, in-home care options or products/services in the back of the guide.

Each council district, also known as a ‘local government area’ or ‘LGA,’ on the referenced page includes a list of suburbs with homes in each suburb listed in alphabetical order.

Locality search: If you know the council district, suburb or town, then use the cross-reference index on page 125. Each of these lists are in alphabetical order and you can then refer to the page referenced.

Cultural search: If you are of non-English speaking background or prefer to find a home or service specific to your cultural needs, refer to the multicultural listings on pages 154–156 & 169–170.

Searching for other services . . .

If you are looking for centre-based care, day therapy centres or other products and services, you can find this in the directory section from page 156 onwards (SA) and 170 (NT).

Visit AgedCareGuide.com.au for a complete list of services available near you.

•

Research

WHAT.YOU.NEED TO KNOW Research overview

Accessing aged care can be complicated and confusing if you have not used support services before or don’t know where to start.

Whether you need support to remain living independently at home or you’re looking for alternative accommodation, it is important to know what options are available to you. Different types of care may include . . .

Support at home

Different care options that may be available to you include support at home through government-funded programs, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or the Home Care Packages (HCP) program.

Home care products and services range from assistance with daily chores and personal care to providing meals, transport assistance and home maintenance.

Research

Basic assistance is offered through the CHSP but, if your needs exceed the level of support offered through this program, a Level 1– 4 Home Care Package can offer higher-intensity support to help you stay at home. However, Home Care Packages will be replaced by the new Support at Home program in 2025 and more information can be found on page 37.

Private providers can also deliver a range of home support services should you choose to pay for them.

Short-term care

There’s a few different support options available if you only need support for a short period of time. These options include respite care, which can be delivered in the community or in a residential care home, offering the opportunity for both you and your carer to take a short break.

At the end of a hospital stay, the Transition Care Programme provides short-term assistance to help improve your independence and confidence.

If you have not been admitted to hospital, the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme is a flexible option that focuses on regaining wellbeing over a short period of time. The STRC Programme will also be replaced by the new Support at Home program from 1 July 2025.

Residential aged care

Moving into residential aged care can ensure quality of life and comfort if you are no longer able to remain living independently at home. Residential aged care facilities, also known as ‘nursing homes’ or ‘aged care homes,’ provide 24/7 care as well as a range of other support services and recreational activities. The cost of care in most Australian aged care homes is subsidised by the Australian Government. There’s also a number of non-government-funded residential aged care homes, often referred to as ‘supported- and assisted-living complexes’ and you will need to cover the entire cost of accommodation and care delivered.

Retirement living

Retirement villages are not nursing homes; they are clusters of villas, units or apartments and you will need a reasonable level of independence to move into a retirement setting. The government does not fund retirement options and daily care is generally not included. However, some providers may offer support services at an additional charge or this can be accessed separately through government-funded home support options.

Assistive technology

You can use assistive technology to enhance your quality of life and remain independent for longer. Older people may face increased mobility hazards and challenges as they age, so learning to adapt and stay safe is important.

Better for life

At Southern Cross Care, we believe that no matter where you come from, life can always be better. That’s why our vision is to support members of our community to be Better for life® .

Health & Wellness

From group exercise classes, to allied health services and more, we can help you stay active, healthy and independent.

Home Care

Our approach to Home Care is simple - quality services, tailored to your needs and delivered by a nurse-led team you can trust.

Retirement Living

From a ordable units, to villas and serviced apartments, our Retirement Living communities are vibrant and welcoming.

Residential Care

Our Residential Care services focus on healthy ageing and good quality of life, with 24/7 care provided by our compassionate team.

Respite

Our Respite services support you to take a break, with quality short-term care options. 1800 852 772 | SouthernCrossCare.com.au

My Aged Care Getting started

Before you can access government‑subsidised aged care supports, such as in‑home care, community supports or moving into a nursing home, you need to register with My Aged Care and be assessed to work out exactly what level of support you need.

My Aged Care

The agency looking after all government-funded aged care programs is My Aged Care. The service can help you find information about subsidised aged care options, including the different types of government-funded services available, eligibility for those services and the associated costs.

You, a family member, carer or client representative can register your details with My Aged Care so that you can be assessed to access any government-subsidised services.

When you first call the My Aged Care contact centre on 1800 200 422, an operator will register you and ask you a number of questions about your personal circumstances and care needs.

These questions will be quite basic and shouldn’t take too long. All you will need when you call is your Medicare card, as this information is stored with your other details on the My Aged Care database.

Examples of the questions you will be asked are:

Are you currently receiving aged care services?

Are you getting support from a carer or family member?

Can you prepare your own meals and do housework?

Do you need assistance taking a shower or bath and do you need help getting dressed?

Are there any health concerns or did you have a recent fall?

Do you feel lonely or isolated?

Are there any safety risks in the home?

The aim of this screening is to figure out what needs and support you require and whether you are eligible for a further assessment in person.

My Aged Care will assign you an aged care client number and will open a central client record. This record will include the information you have provided as well as document your assessed needs and any government-funded care services you have been found eligible for.

Aged care assessments

If you are successful in your initial application with My Aged Care, the contact centre operator will refer you for an aged care assessment to determine what level of support you would benefit from the most.

If the operator decides that you are eligible for basic home support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), you will be assessed by a Regional Assessment Service (RAS).

Otherwise, if the operator believes you require higher-care support, either through a Home Care Package (HCP) or moving into an aged care home, a member of an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit you to assess you.

Regional Assessment Service (RAS)

You need to be assessed by the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) to access basic government-funded home support under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). For more information about the CHSP, go to page 18.

The RAS assessment helps to identify your needs for support and any goals for retaining or regaining skills that enable you to continue living independently in the community. It is conducted free of charge and independently from service provision which ensures assessors consider the full range of options when responding to you and your carers’ needs and goals.

Some of these needs may include assistive technology, therapeutic interventions, community care services or other support organisations. RAS assessors work with other service providers, GPs/specialists and community support networks to make sure you get the help you need. If your care needs have increased, the RAS can also plan and coordinate your exit from the CHSP and transfer you to other appropriate service systems, such as Home Care Packages and/or residential care.

The service also provides care coordination if you have multiple providers or more complex needs.

Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT)

If you are no longer able to manage at home without basic assistance, the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) helps you determine what kind of care will best meet your needs.

This may be a Home Care Package (see page 22) provided to you in your own home or residential care in an aged care home (see page 47).

ACAT assessors are generally professionals with medical backgrounds, such as doctors, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and other health experts.

There is no charge for the assessment as the ACAT is government-funded. Carers, relatives or close friends are encouraged to be involved in the discussion of your needs.

While an ACAT can’t make recommendations about individual homes or community services, they can provide you with information to assist you to make decisions.

To assist you in your search, an independent information source like the Aged Care Guide publications and the AgedCareGuide.com.au website can help. These resources offer a comprehensive overview of all care options and care providers available.

Assessment

You may be placed on a waitlist until a

becomes

Home care flow chart

At any time

You can find someone to help you, such as:

a placement consultant

an aged care advisor

a social worker

a case manager

a hospital discharge planner

These professionals know the system really well and their help can make your search much easier.

Other useful people:

Financial advisor

Health fund

Veterans' Affairs

Local council

If your situation is urgent, then the ACAT will assess you as quickly as possible

AGED CARE GUIDE

Residential care

flow chart

Remember: it takes anything from a few weeks up to more than a few months to find the care home that suits you

At any time

You can find someone to help you, such as:

a placement consultant an aged care advisor

a social worker

a case manager a hospital discharge planner

Consult your Aged Care Guide for a list of choices for any of these options or visit AgedCareGuide.com.au

These professionals know the system really well and their help can make your search much easier.

Other useful people: Financial advisor Health fund

Veterans’ Affairs

Local council

Support at home Support at home

To help you live independently in your own home and community for as long as possible, there are many home care products and services available.

Depending on your personal situation and the level of assistance you require, you may be entitled to some basic in-home support or more intensive support through a Home Care Package.

After a hospital stay, the Transition Care Programme might be able to assist in your recovery and to return home. Alternatively, you may need to access respite care to give your carer a short break from the caring role. There is a variety of Support at Home options available that can meet your specific needs.

In‑home support

It is a government priority to assist with your care needs so you can continue living in the comfort of your home.

Home care products and services range from assistance with daily chores to personal care, providing meals, transport assistance, as well as equipment such as a ramp, walking frame or shower rail to help you live independently in your own home.

The government continues to significantly increase support for home- and community-based aged care with particular integrated packages available; private businesses also offer home care services.

Consumer‑directed Care (CDC)

Consumer-directed Care gives you and your carers greater say about the types of care services you receive and the delivery of those services.

All Home Care Packages are delivered on a CDC basis and the funding for a package is allocated directly to you instead of to the provider.

Providers are required to work in partnership with you to create a package of services that meets your goals/needs and gives you the information you require.

This information should assist in choosing the best provider for you, as well as changing providers if you need.

CDC allows you to determine how much involvement you wish to have when managing your package. It also allows for more transparency around how your package is funded and spent.

All home care services you receive should include ongoing monitoring and reviews from the provider to make sure your package is meeting your needs.

Support at home

Better Health & Wellness

Are you recovering from an illness or injury? Have you had a hospital stay? Or are you simply looking for a more active life?

No matter what your goals are, our group classes and one-on-one allied health services are the perfect ﬁt to get you ﬁt.

Designed for people aged 50+, our services are tailored to your individual needs.

Call or visit our website to get started. 1800 852 772

Commonwealth Home Support Programme

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

If you want to stay in your own home, but need some help with daily tasks or require entry‑level care, the CHSP may be able to help.

The CHSP combines a number of home support options into one streamlined and simplified program. These options include short-term supports such as respite, transition care and short-term restorative care. It also provides basic ongoing support, both at home and in the community, as well as access to wellness programs, day options and centre-based services.

To determine if the CHSP is the right program for you, you will need to be assessed by a Regional Assessment Service (RAS). See page 13 for more information.

If you have more complex needs, a Home Care Package may be a better option. You can access similar services to the CHSP, coordinated and tailored to meet your specific needs (see page 22 for more details).

Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to find out how you can arrange a home support assessment.

What is the CHSP?

Subsidised by the Australian Government, the CHSP is an entry-level home help program if you are mostly — but not completely — able to live on your own and don’t yet need higher levels of support at home. The program can also help your carer. If your carer needs to attend to everyday activities, the CHSP can arrange for someone to help you while they are away.

What types of services are provided?

CHSP services provided in the community may include: social support — social activities in a community-based group setting; and transport — help to get out and about for shopping or appointments.

Services provided at home may include: domestic assistance — household jobs such as cleaning, clothes washing and ironing; personal care — help with bathing, showering, dressing, or toileting; home maintenance — minor general repair and care of your house or yard, for example, changing light bulbs or replacing tap washers; home modification — minor installation of safety aids such as alarms, ramps and support rails in your home; and nursing care — a qualified nurse comes to your home and may, for example, dress a wound or provide continence advice.

Support at home

Just Better Care is an approved provider of Aged Care services and has been supporting thousands of older Australians since 2005. We deliver the highest quality care to enable individuals to live independently and conﬁdently within their own homes and their local communities.

Community participation Personal care Travel & transport Domestic assistance Overnight support Dementia support

Whether it’s help with everyday tasks, a Home Care Package or in-home

Just Better Care can deliver customised support that’s

Commonwealth Home Support Programme

Some CHSP services can be provided either at a community centre or in your home, such as: food services — may include providing meals at a community centre, help with shopping for food, preparing and storing food in your home and delivering meals to your home; and allied health support services — if you have particular health problems, you may be able to access allied health services such as physiotherapy, podiatry, speech therapy, occupational therapy and advice from a dietitian.

Who is the CHSP for?

You can apply for home help services under the CHSP if you are 65 years or older; 50 years or older and identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person; are still living at home and need help to continue living independently.

You or your carer should contact the My Aged Care contact centre on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au to apply.

Am I eligible?

To determine exactly what help you need at home, you will need a home support assessment. The assessment will be done by a representative of the Regional Assessment Service (RAS).

A local RAS assessor will look at your ability to cope with various activities in your daily living.

Together, you will be able to work out what sort of help you need and how much of it, along with what it might cost. Go to page 13 to read more about RAS assessments.

Urgent needs

If you’re in a situation where you have an urgent need for home support services and your safety would be at risk if those needs are not immediately met, it may be possible to receive CHSP services before you have been assessed by a RAS.

This only happens in exceptional circumstances and is only for a limited time until an assessment can be organised to determine long-term care options.

Services generally considered to relieve an urgent need for care include nursing, personal care, meals and transport.

It will depend on your personal circumstances whether you’ll be able to receive interim services before an assessment. Call the My Aged Care contact centre on 1800 200 422 to find out more.

Who pays for CHSP services?

Supports delivered under CHSP are subsidised by the government, however, there generally is still a fee for each service.

You are encouraged to contribute towards the cost of your care if you are able to do so.

The amount you contribute depends on the type and number of services you require and can differ from one service provider to the next. Some organisations may charge a set fee for their services, while others may ask for a voluntary donation, charge a membership or subscription fee.

How much you pay is discussed and agreed upon between you and your service provider. The rate is set before you begin receiving the relevant services.

If you are receiving multiple services from one or more service providers and these services overlap, it may be possible to ‘bundle’ the cost for these services.

To find out specific costs, you should contact your service provider.

Pre‑1 July 2015 HACC, NRCP, DTC and ACHA clients

If you’ve accessed Home And Community Care (HACC), the National Respite for Carers Programme (NRCP), Day Therapy Centres (DTC) or Assistance with Care and Housing for the Aged (ACHA) prior to 1 July 2015, you may retain access to these services or equivalent CHSP services if required.

You can find CHSP-funded services starting on page 118 of the directory section or online on AgedCareGuide.com.au

CHSP

Home Care Packages Home Care Packages

A Home Care Package (HCP) provides services that will help you to remain at home for as long as possible, as well as giving you choice and flexibility in the way that the care and support is provided.

There are four different levels of packages to support people with varying care needs, ranging from Level 1 support, if you have basic care needs, to Level 4, which can support you if you have high-level care needs.

The HCP is allocated to you personally, which gives you more control over the services you receive and who delivers those services.

Once you have been allocated a HCP, you can contact any preferred approved service provider to give you the care you need.

Types of packages available

There are four types of packages delivering different levels of care:

1 Level 1 supports people with basic care needs

2 Level 2 supports people with low-level care needs

3 Level 3 supports people with intermediate care needs

4 Level 4 supports people with high-level care needs

The same type of care and services are provided under each HCP level, however, the amount of funding is different depending on what package is allocated to you.

The hours of care are increased at each level of care; more hours of care and services are delivered under Home Care Package Level 4 compared to Level 1.

The ACAT assesses the types of care needs you may require. Someone eligible for the Level 3 and 4 HCP would be eligible for higher levels of residential care if they were to apply for it.

If you are receiving care services through the previous Community Aged Care Package, Extended Aged Care at Home or Extended Aged Care at Home Dementia packages, you will continue to receive these services, but they will have a different name.

Package supplements

Package supplements are available with any of the four levels of Home Care Packages to help with the cost of meeting specific care needs. For example, the Z Dementia Supplement is for people with dementia and the R Veterans’ Supplement is for veterans with an accepted mental health condition.

Some packages can be specifically for people who are e financially or socially disadvantaged, people with Y housing needs/at risk of homelessness or for people who live in t rural, remote or isolated areas. Some providers might cater for people with a certain g cultural background or have staff that speak a foreign language.

Your care provider will apply for these subsidies and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.

For a list of HCP providers, see pages 130–136 (SA) and 164–166 (NT).

Come home to Calvary.

Guided by Calvary’s 135 year history in health care, you will have peace of mind with access to quality care.

Calvary is recognised as a continuing source of healing, hope and nurturing to the people we serve. Our personalised approach ensures every person receives the attention and care that they need. All of our care is delivered with dignity and is designed to improve your health and wellbeing.

Home Care Packages

What services are provided?

Home Care Package services are based on your individual needs. Your provider coordinates the care and services to support you at home and these are agreed upon between you and your provider. Services may include:

Personal assistance with bathing or showering; personal hygiene and grooming, dressing, toileting and mobility

Assistance with communication, including help with assistive technology for people with a sensory disability and support for those with English as a second language

Domestic assistance for household jobs, like cleaning, clothes washing and ironing

Food services, such as preparing meals or having meals delivered; assistance with using eating utensils or actual feeding and providing enteral feeding formula

Nursing services, including dressing wounds by providing bandages, dressings and skin creams, as well as continence management and assistance in using continence aids and appliances

Medication support and supervision

Providing mobility equipment, such as crutches, walking frames, wheelchairs and mechanical devices for lifting, bed rails, slide sheets and pressure-relieving mattresses, along with help using those aids

SWITCH TO BETTER QUALITY HOME CARE CHOOSE RIGHT AT HOME

Home maintenance for care of your house or garden

Modifications to the home — installing safety aids, such as alarms, ramps and support rails; identifying risks in the house and proposing solutions

Transport and assistance for appointments or social activities

Encouragement to take part in social and community activities that promote and protect your lifestyle, interests and wellbeing

Services/items not provided

The following services or items are not included in a package in any of the four levels of home care:

Using the package money as a source of income for the consumer

Purchase of food, except for enteral feeding requirements

Paying for accommodation, such as assistance with home purchase, mortgage payments or rent

Payment of fees or charges for other types of care funded/jointly funded by the Australian Government

Home modifications or capital items that are not related to the consumer’s care needs

Travel and accommodation for holidays

Cost of entertainment activities, such as club memberships and tickets to sporting events

Home Care Packages

Payment for services and items covered by the Medicare Benefits

or the Pharmaceutical

Gambling activities

Are you eligible?

You will need to be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) to receive a Home Care Package.

The ACAT helps you to determine what kind of care will best meet your needs when you are no longer able to manage on your own.

A member of the team, which may include a doctor, nurse, social worker and/or other health professional, will meet with you to assess your care needs and how well you are managing at home.

They will identify the right services for your needs and the level of care you require.

The ACAT will give you a letter stating the types of subsidised services you have been approved for and might also put you in contact with organisations in your area that can deliver these services.

For more details about assessments, go to page 89 or call 1800 200 422 to organise an assessment.

Priority

Access to Home Care Packages is managed through a national pool of all available packages. After approval for a HCP, you will be placed in a ‘queue’ until a suitable package becomes available. This may take a number of weeks or even months.

Your place in the queue will be determined by your personal needs, circumstances and the time you have been waiting for care since your assessment.

When you reach the front of the queue and a package is assigned to you, you can begin to receive care from the provider of your choice.

Home Care Packages

You have 56 days from the date you were assigned a package to find a provider and commence services.

You can request an extension, for example, if you have trouble finding a service provider, but if you haven’t started receiving care within 84 days, the package will return to the queue and be assigned to the next person in line.

Approved providers

An organisation that has been approved by the government to provide aged care services is called an ‘approved provider.’

The government will pay your approved provider your allocated funding so they can pay the carers and any other bills.

An approved provider can manage your care, liaise with you about your preferences, requirements and care plan, but it doesn’t have to be the provider delivering your care.

It is important to know that even though a HCP can only be managed by an approved provider, the care can be delivered by any provider, even one that is not supported by the government. This gives you more choice as to who delivers your care.

Home care agreement

This agreement is made between you and your provider and covers information such as the care and services you will receive and how much they will cost.

Your provider will work with you to develop a care or service plan that is based on your needs.

The care plan you agree to should include:

The exact types of services you will receive

Who will provide which services

How much involvement the service provider will have in managing and coordinating your services

When your services are delivered

How much will it cost?

The government covers most of the cost of care, but your provider may ask you to contribute towards the cost of delivering your services if you can afford to do so.

Depending on the Home Care Package level you are eligible for, the government pays your approved provider a subsidy toward the cost of your care. This amount is calculated daily and paid monthly to the provider.

The government contributes the following amounts to each person receiving a Home Care Package (January 2025 rates):

Home Care Packages

This amount may be supplemented with an additional payment for people with higher care and specialised support needs such as a Dementia, Veterans’ or Housing Supplement.

Rates are generally reviewed in March and September each year in line with changes to the Age Pension. This applies to each person receiving a Home Care Package, even if you are part of a couple.

Any government funding you receive will be paid directly to the provider who can spend the funds on the items you both agreed to in the home care agreement.

After commencement of your package, you will receive a monthly statement of income, expenditure and the balance of funds enabling you to see how the money is being spent.

How much you will pay

A provider may charge the maximum basic daily fee for a Home Care Package depending on what level you have been given. Maximum fees for each level currently are (January 2025 rates):

There may be additional benefits available depending on your personal circumstances, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for more details.

If your income is higher than the Age Pension, you may be required to pay extra for your care.

How much extra depends on your income and unavoidable expenses, such as pharmaceutical bills, rent, utilities and other living expenses.

The current Age Pension amount is $1,047.10 per fortnight for a single person or $1,144.40 with the included Maximum Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement.

You can negotiate with your provider on the costs of the services and care you receive.

These costs will be agreed upon and fixed in your agreement before you receive any aged care services. This is your legal agreement with your service provider.

No full pensioner will pay an income-tested care fee and no part pensioner will pay an income-tested care fee greater than $6,834.77 per annum.

If you have an income of more than $65,020.80 per year, you will pay an income-tested care fee on a sliding scale up to a total of $13,669.63 per annum.

However, no one will pay more than $82,018.15 in an income-tested care fee over their lifetime (January 2025 rates).

You will only pay an income-tested care fee if you can afford to do so. Your income assessment will determine if you can afford to contribute towards the cost of your care.

Your assets, including the family home, are excluded from the means-testing arrangements for home care.

Exit fees

HCPs are portable, which means that if you are moving to a different area or if you’re not happy with a provider’s services, you can simply take your package and any remaining funds with you to a new provider.

Providers are no longer able to charge an exit fee and any unspent funds must be transferred to the new provider.

If a person leaves the program or passes away, the client’s contribution must be released to them or their estate and the government will get their cut back.

Home Care Packages

Quality and complaints

The Australian Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is responsible for the review of aged care services, including government-subsidised home care services.

As an independent body, the Commission manages the accreditation of residential aged care services and the quality review of home care services across Australia.

It evaluates these services against the set Aged Care Quality Standards. The Commission is committed to promoting continuous improvement of aged care and ensures that quality and other reporting by service providers is streamlined while supporting accountability, information and confidence for consumers.

If you are concerned about the care or services you are receiving, it is recommended that you first try to resolve any issues with your service provider.

If you feel you are not being heard or need help to address the issue, you can contact an aged care advocacy service to help you.

If the matter is not resolved you can make a complaint to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822 or visit agedcarequality.gov.au .

Your rights

No matter who you are, where you live or the types of care you need, you have rights related to your home care that should be respected by providers.

You have a right to: be treated and accepted as an individual and to have your preferences respected; be treated with dignity and have your privacy respected; receive care that is respectful of you, your family and home; receive care without being obliged to feel grateful to those providing the care; full and effective use of all human, legal and consumer rights, including the right to freedom of speech regarding your care; have access to advocates and other avenues of redress; be treated without exploitation, abuse, discrimination, harassment or neglect.

Home Care Packages

Your rights continued

Under the Consumer-directed Care principles you also have the right to: set your own goals for your supports; determine the ongoing level of involvement and control you have over your home care; make decisions in relation to your care; maintain your independence as much as possible; choose the care and services that best meet your goals and assessed needs, within the limits of the resources available; have choice and flexibility in the way the care and services are provided in your home; participate in making decisions that affect you; and have your representative — family member or close friend — participate in decisions relating to your care if you request it or need support to make decisions.

These rights mean you can live the life you want to live for as long as possible.

If you think your rights are not being respected, you should talk to your provider about your concerns. If this does not solve the issue, you can contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

If you require more information about your rights, please visit opan.org.au/get-support/i-need-information-on-my-rights/ to access the Older Persons Advocacy Network Self-advocacy toolkit, contact OPAN and book yourself into free education/information sessions.

Alternatively, you can call 1800 700 600 to get in touch with advocacy professionals and access information about your rights over the phone.

If you believe that you have been subjected to abuse or have had your rights violated, please refer to the Elder Abuse section of this Aged Care Guide to learn more by flipping to page 110.

Private home care

Rather than a government‑funded service, you may choose a private home care provider and pay for services out of your own pocket.

Maybe this is more cost-effective for you or there is a waiting list for the government service you are trying to access.

Private home care services are arranged directly between you and the service provider. You pay for all the services provided and there is no government subsidy.

Private home care organisations provide a wide variety of services, including registered nurses for complex care needs and carers for companionship, personal care, housekeeping, cooking and outings.

They may also provide other types of staff, such as advisors, assistants, dietitians, drivers, personal trainers, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

There is no limit to the number of hours of care provided each week and you can generally increase or decrease the time as your requirements change. With an agreed notice period, you are not required to pay for shifts you do not require.

While private home care may seem expensive, you may find that it is more cost-effective than other institutional alternatives. There is a wide variety in the level of quality and cost of home care companies.

When looking into home care services, here are some things to investigate and ask the provider you are considering:

Do they service your area?

Is the company Australian-owned?

Is it independent or part of a franchise?

Do the owners/operators have experience in home care?

Does the company have appropriate insurance?

Does the company comply with Australian Tax Law? For example, does it charge GST appropriately?

Do they provide documents about financial arrangements before service begins?

Do they have a Service Agreement that outlines what you will receive and the cost of it?

Are they flexible? After all, it is all about you.

What are their recruitment processes?

Is there a criminal background check performed prior to employment with an agency?

Does the company provide worker’s compensation for employees?

Thisisimportantsothatyouarenotresponsibleforanyinjuries thatoccuronthejob.

Reforms

The Australian aged care sector is expected to undergo significant changes within the coming months.

Following delays announced in 2023, the new Support at Home program will be introduced in July 2025 to replace Home Care Packages and the Short-Term Restorative Care Programme. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme will also transition to the new program by 1 July 2027.

The new Aged Care Act is set to take effect from 1 July 2025. From that date, entrants into the national aged care system will be subject to different conditions than those currently receiving care.

A new fee structure will see aged care recipients paying greater co-contributions for their care, except for clinical care which will be completely funded by the government.

This is expected to impact 30% of new entrants receiving a full pension and 75% receiving a part pension.

New entrants will pay a Hotelling Supplement if they have more than $238,000 in assets, $95,400 dollars in annual income or a combination of the two. Residents may contribute to their means-tested basic daily fee, renamed the ‘non-clinical care fee,’ if they have more than $502,981 in assets, more than $131,279 dollars in income or a combination of the two.

The treatment of the family home will remain unchanged. As of January 2025, the residential means test includes a home exemption cap of $206,039.20 dollars.

A lifetime cap on fees means no one entering aged care after 1 July 2025 will pay more than $130,000 dollars in non-clinical care costs over their lifetime. This includes both home care and residential care expenses. The current lifetime cap is $82,018.15 dollars.

Aged care recipients will see the price of accommodation increase, with providers able to charge up to $750,000 dollars for a room — as of January 2025, the limit is $750,000 dollars.

Residential aged care providers could keep two percent of accommodation deposits from residents annually for five years under the new bill.

Existing aged care recipients, including those in residential aged care, receiving home care services or approved for home care — but waiting for a package — will be exempt from co-contributions.

Veterans’ support

If you are a veteran, war widow or widower, you may be in line to receive extra help in your home from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

If you are having a hard time doing the regular household chores, struggling to get in and out of the shower or bath safely or if you just can’t manage the gardening or household maintenance, then the Veterans’ Home Care (VHC) program could organise people to help you.

The VHC program offers a range of services including: domestic assistance; personal care; respite care; safety-related home and garden maintenance. Services can be delivered in your own home or a residential care facility.

If you have specific medical care needs or need more intensive assistance, a nurse from the Community Nursing Program may be able to help you stay in your own home for longer.

Nursing services may include: medication management; wound care; hygiene assistance; showering and dressing.

To receive these services, you need to be referred for an assessment by an appropriate health professional.

This could be your GP, a treating doctor in hospital, a hospital discharge planner or a VHC assessment agency.

There is a fee you will need to pay towards the VHC program. You will have to contribute a $5 per hour co-payment for each service. However, there is a limit to how much you will pay.

For instance, the maximum co-payment for domestic assistance is $5 per week, whereas personal care is limited to $10 per week.

If you can’t afford the co-payments, you can apply to have these fees waived.

Contact the Veterans’ Home Care Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450 to find out what support services are available to you and how you can access them.

A well‑earned rest

Taking some time off from caring is crucial and known as ‘respite.’ Respite can be provided in your own home, a community setting or an aged care home.

Respite care offers the opportunity for both you and your carer to take a break. This may be for a few hours, a day, a night or a few weeks.

Respite care is provided by residential aged care homes and by community care services under the Carer Gateway.

Accommodation and services include:

half- or full-day respite offered in a day care centre; in-home respite services — including overnight, home and personal care; activity programs;

a break away from home with a support worker; respite for carers of people with dementia and challenging behaviours;

respite in an aged care home or overnight in a community setting; respite for employed carers and for carers seeking to return to work.

Access to respite care is based on priority and need. For respite care in your home or in a day care centre, the respite service provider or the Carer Gateway will assess whether you and your carer are eligible.

The amount of care you receive will depend on your needs and the availability of respite care services.

Centre‑based respite care

Centre-based respite care (CBRC) can provide respite services to carers, offering individualised social and recreational activities.

Through CBRC, you can also attend day programs that may include excursions, outdoor/indoor activities or holiday programs.

Trained respite workers often undertake client assessments. Needs-based programs are then developed with you and your carer to help enhance your quality of life.

Cost

There is no charge for assistance provided at Carer Gateway, however, individual service fees may apply.

Community-based respite services charge fees according to the type of service being used and your ability to pay. For respite in an aged care home, you will be charged the daily fee amount but do not have to pay the accommodation fee.

For more information, contact the Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737. Your call will automatically be directed to your nearest state or territory provider.

Respite at home

Transition care

Regaining your independence

To help improve your independence and confidence at the end of a hospital stay, the Transition Care Programme provides short‑term support and assistance.

The Transition Care Programme is goal-oriented, time-limited and therapy-focused care that can be delivered in your own home or in a home-like ‘live-in’ setting.

To be eligible for transition care, you must be an in-patient of a hospital and assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).

Transition care can be provided for a period of up to 12 weeks, with a possibility to extend to 18 weeks if assessed as requiring an extra period of therapeutic care. Seven weeks is the expected average period of support.

Services

Transition care is delivered by approved providers who will offer a package of services, including low-intensity therapy, nursing and personal care support.

Low-intensity therapy services may include: counselling and social work dietetics occupational therapy

Personal care services may include: help with showering and dressing assistance with eating and eating aids managing incontinence

Fees

physiotherapy podiatry speech therapy

transport to appointments help with mobility and communication

You may be charged a contribution fee to cover the cost of your transition care. Talk to your provider about what fees apply and how much you need to pay.

For transition care received in your own home, the maximum amount is currently $13.08 per day (January 2025 rates).

For care delivered in a ‘live-in’ setting, such as a residential aged care facility, the maximum amount you can be asked to pay is $63.57 per day (January 2025 rates).

Access to transition care is decided on a needs basis and not on your ability to pay fees. Talk to your hospital social worker or discharge planner to find out more about how to access the Transition Care Programme.

Aged care homes offering transition care beds are listed in the residential aged care tables from page 137 (SA) & 167 (NT).

Flexible restorative care

To help regain your independence if you have not been admitted to hospital, the government has introduced a flexible care option.

You may benefit from the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme if you have been sick or had a fall and your mobility is temporarily impaired.

The program focuses on regaining wellbeing over a short period of time, with a maximum of eight weeks.

The government created the program to reverse or slow functional decline in older people and help improve their health and wellbeing through the time-limited service.

The ultimate aim is to avoid you having to access ongoing in-home care services or residential care.

The program is designed around improving your capabilities at performing everyday tasks you may be having difficulties with.

A team of professionals would provide the service to help you adjust to the differences in your abilities.

This could involve activities and exercises that will benefit your mobility or could result in home modifications to make everyday tasks more manageable.

You will be able to choose the services you want to be provided so the assistance you receive will be tailored to your specific needs.

Services can be delivered at your home, in a nursing home or a combination of both.

You may need to pay a small fee, although you won’t have to pay an accommodation payment if you receive STRC in a nursing home setting.

The daily fee is currently $13.08 for STRC received in a community setting or $63.57 if accessed in residential care or a hospital.

The STRC programme is not linked to any other government-funded home support and you will be able to access the program even if you’re already receiving support through the CHSP.

You will not be eligible to receive the STRC programme if you are currently:

Receiving a government-funded Home Care Package

Have received transition care in the last six months

Live in residential aged care

Youdoneedanassessmenttoaccesstheprogram.

This assessment is done by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) and is only valid for six months. You can access the STRC programme twice over a 12-month period.

Read more about assessments on page 89 or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for more information about STRC.

Wellness centres

Wellness centres offer a range of programs and services that focus on mobility, exercise, rehabilitation and relaxation. A well‑equipped wellbeing centre also provides the opportunity to address areas of concern, enhance your mobility, reduce your pain levels and risk of falls or injury.

You can access a wide range of physically and emotionally rewarding activities with the guidance of allied health specialists in these centres, also known as ‘day therapy centres,’ ‘health & lifestyle centres’ or ‘allied health hubs.’

Most centres offer a range of stimulating and fun activities, one-on-one or in group settings, to help improve your memory, wellbeing and independence.

Some allied health and wellbeing services you may be able to access include:

Occupational therapy

Diversional therapy

Massage therapy to reduce pain and maintain overall wellbeing

Physiotherapists or exercise physiologists

Podiatry

Hydrotherapy

Dementia and cognitive support programs

Personal training

Exercise classes for all levels, including chair-based and dance classes

Nutrition information

Mat- and equipment-based Pilates classes

Specialised group classes for specific conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation

These wellness or day therapy centres are sometimes combined with different centre-based care services focused more on social inclusion and community connection.

The programs and services offered through this centre-based care are all about encouraging healthy ageing and work to provide you with emotional, mental and physical stimulation.

Some programs may be tailored to specific groups, such as people from a multicultural background or those living with certain chronic conditions.

You can enjoy a range of activities which may include daily exercise programs, arts, crafts, cooking, gardening, as well as education and learning services, group excursions and respite or overnight care.

Centre-based care offers numerous benefits, such as:

improved social wellbeing through companionship and connection;

maintaining mental health, nutrition and exercise;

positive impacts on overall health and wellbeing, including reducing symptoms of pain;

support for carers and families.

Is a wellness centre suitable for me?

If you are over the age of 65 years, the services offered at a wellness centre may be the key to better physical health to help you stay strong and independent. A range of allied health specialists may be able to support your mental agility and keep you performing day-to-day tasks properly.

You may be able to claim the associated costs of a wellness centre through the Regional Assessment Services (RAS) or Aged Care Assessment Programs (ACAP). To receive an assessment, call My Aged Care at 1800 200 422 and then ask for a referral code.

Based on the outcome of your assessment and the package you are eligible for through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or Home Care Package (HCP) program, health and wellness services may be subsidised by the government.

You can still access the services at a wellbeing or day therapy centre privately and pay for services as you go. To do so, you would need an initial consultation to identify which services you need and the amount you will pay to access them.

Improved mobility isn’t the only benefit of physical activity. Staying active through regular exercise helps reduce fractures by improving bone strength.

It also increases energy levels, helps you maintain a good weight, regulates blood pressure, prevents cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, helps manage arthritis, reduces anxiety or depression, improves sleep and increases self-esteem.

Your local council will have information about activities and exercise groups in your community.

If you are overweight, have a chronic illness/disease or live a sedentary life, it might be a good idea to see your doctor or a health professional for advice on getting into an exercise routine.

Wellness centres

Transport services

Getting to appointments, the shops or social events can be challenging if you don’t have a car and even more challenging if you have mobility issues.

There may be times when friends, family and neighbours are unable to help out. While transport can be part of government-funded supports, there is also a range of free or subsidised transport options available through a variety of outlets.

Community organisations

Many volunteer groups are operated within communities, such as local churches, clubs or Rotary groups, that support people over 65 years of age by offering transport services.

These community volunteer transport services provide either direct transport or assist older people in accessing public transport.

Most of these community schemes or groups are staffed by volunteer drivers. Depending on the organisation, the services may be free or you may have to pay a small contribution towards the organisation.

St John’s Ambulance Australia provides a community transport service and patient transport service in most states or territories. These services can support older people who need to attend medical appointments or hospital, visit loved ones, go shopping, attend events or family gatherings.

Local councils

Transport provided by local councils is usually offered through community buses or personal transport. Both will be managed by the council who often have a team of volunteers that work on a roster to run these services.

Community buses generally operate on a weekly basis with many offering the convenience of door-to-door pick-up and drop-off. As well as taking residents to shopping centres, many council-run community buses visit other services and activities, such as libraries, seniors clubs and groups. Some councils offer personal transport for medical, wellbeing and other essential appointments.

There is usually a nominal minimal charge for using the community bus that may vary depending on where it is going and whether you require a return journey. Contact your local council for transport information.

Public transport options

If you are 60 years old or older and hold a Pensioner Concession Card or a Seniors Card, you may be eligible for free weekend travel or concession fares on Adelaide Metro trains, trams and buses.

For further information about public transport for seniors in SA & NT, please call Adelaide Metro on 1300 311 108 or the NT Government via (08) 8924 7666.

Assistive technology options

The changes that occur with ageing can lead to problems with mobility, such as unsteadiness while walking, difficulty getting in and out of a chair or falling.

These are reportedly the top mobility problems experienced by older people and a major cause of injury and death.

Muscle weakness, joint problems, pain, disease and neurological difficulties can also contribute to mobility problems. Keeping mobile can give you the opportunity to maintain independence in order to fulfil daily tasks and live happily in your own home.

Although light physical activity can help improve your mobility and remain independent, some people also find comfort and assistance in mobility equipment or aids intended to help them live more satisfying and productive lives.

Improve access and safety at home

Creating a safe living space is critical to keep your independence and prevent injuries.

You can improve the safety of your home by making some basic changes.

Examples of some easy changes you can make at home include:

Removing clutter around the home to reduce the risk of tripping over

Installing grab-bars and handrails to help you get down the stairs safely or step in and out of the shower or bathtub without injuring yourself

Repairing or removing tripping hazards such as loose carpet, slippery throw rugs or floorboards that stick up

Ensuring stairways and narrow hallways are properly lit

Installing non-slip strips or a stair lift to prevent falls

Getting personal alarms to detect falls, call for help in an emergency or alert someone of your whereabouts via GPS tracking

Create a safer home

If you require assistive technology on a permanent or long-term basis for a health- or age-related reason, as a resident of South Australia, you may be eligible for the Department of Human Services Equipment Program.

To contact the DHS Equipment Service, please call 1300 130 302.

If you live in the Northern Territory, you may be eligible for the Territory Equipment Program (TEP) and the Seating Equipment and Technical Service (SEAT).

For more information about the SEAT program, call (08) 8922 8228.

Assistive technology

Mobility aids can assist you

There are several different types of mobility aids available that can help you to stay safe, mobile and socially active.

Some of the equipment available includes:

Mobility aids — Aids that can help to prevent falls include walking sticks or frames, wheelie walkers, manual and motorised wheelchairs and scooters

Personal care — Including shower stools or chairs, shower hoses, bath seats and boards, over-toilet frames, commodes, urinals, continence pads and supplies; aids to assist with dressing or manage medications

Home safety — Some of the aids that can assist you around the house during day-to-day living may include handrails, ramps, tap turners, non-slip mats, easy-grip utensils and easy-pour kettles

Assistive technology solutions

To remain independent and in good health, it’s important that you can look after yourself; move, eat and drink well, stay connected and have fun.

Fortunately, there’s a range of assistive technology solutions that can support you to achieve all of this.

Assistive technology can help you prepare your own meals independently, communicate and stay connected, move around your home and community, manage your personal care, use technology, participate in sport or recreational activities and undertake daily tasks safely.

With over 25,000 assistive technology products on the market, it can be difficult to know what the best solutions for your needs are.

Independent Living Centres (ILCs) are information resource centres that display a range of products and equipment to assist with daily living activities.

They can support your assistive technology choices through information and advice, allied health support, as well as help with grants to get access to a range of technology items.

Through an online National Equipment Database (NED), you can search over 25,000 assistive technology products, supplier details and product specifications. Find out more at askned.com.au or call (08) 8266 5260.

Aged care homes

If you are unable to continue living independently at home, you may choose to move into an aged care home. The Australian Government regulates and funds the provision of aged care in Australia.

‘Aged care home’ is the term most commonly used, but you may also find this type of accommodation referred to as ‘nursing home,’ ‘aged care facility,’ ‘residential aged care’ or ‘high- and low-care facility.’ All of these terms can be used interchangeably to describe the same type of living arrangement.

Entry into a government-funded aged care home requires approval by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).

There are also non-government-funded aged care homes that are called ‘supported- or assisted-living complexes.’ These do not require an ACAT or government approval.

Where do I start?

If you or someone close to you feel you are in need of some form of residential care, you can speak with your doctor who can make initial contact with My Aged Care.

You can contact My Aged Care directly or enlist the help of a representative like a family member or friend to do this on your behalf. Call 1800 200 422 to organise an ACAT assessment. See page 89 for information about assessments.

The next step

After being approved by an ACAT for government-funded residential care, you may begin looking for your future home. You can do this yourself or you can hire a placement consultant who can make the job much easier for you.

It is important to know and understand the types of homes available in your area as this may affect the cost and services you receive.

It is also recommended that you visit as many homes as possible, just as you would when buying or renting a house. This will enable you to gauge the feel and culture of the home.

Homes and their services

Aged care homes provide accommodation ranging from single rooms with ensuites to rooms with shared bathroom facilities. They must provide specified care and services to all residents at no additional cost.

Aged care homes

OASIS GARDEN VILLAGE

Aged care homes

Services that must be provided at no additional charge for all residents who need them, irrespective of their level of care needs, include:

basic accommodation-related services, such as beds, mattresses, linen, bedside lockers and chairs;

general laundry and cleaning services;

maintenance of buildings and grounds;

utilities, such as electricity and water;

the provision of staff continuously on call to provide emergency assistance;

assistance with personal care, such as bathing, going to the toilet, eating and dressing;

assistance with mobility and communication;

assistance in obtaining specialised therapy services or a health practitioner service;

meals, including special diets;

toiletry goods such as towels, washers, soap and toilet paper;

support for people with cognitive impairment, like dementia;

rehabilitation support;

social and recreational activities.

A fee may apply for the following additional services:

goods to assist with toileting and continence aids; therapy services, such as speech therapy, podiatry, occupational, recreational and physiotherapy;

registered nurses to assess, plan and manage care, including complex pain or wound management, palliative care, special feeding, dialysis and oxygen therapy.

For people with dementia, it is important to ask a home whether it offers separate or secure dementia-specific units or wings.

Some nursing homes may have a secure garden area specifically designed for people with dementia that is generally attached to the secure dementia unit.

There are homes that cater to a specific cultural and linguistic group or may offer culturally appropriate services. See pages 154 & 169 for a list of culturally appropriate care homes and services g

Pets can help lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation and some homes are happy to accommodate you and your pet.

Some nursing homes even have live-in pets. You’ll find these C listed in the directory section of this guide starting on page 137.

Accreditation and certification

All government-funded care homes must meet required accreditation standards and demonstrate continuous improvement with regard to the quality of care and services provided to residents.

The standards that must be met cover areas such as: management, staffing, health and personal care, resident lifestyle, living environment, catering, cleaning, continuous improvement, safety and security.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is responsible for the review of aged care homes.

It monitors residential aged care services to ensure their compliance with the accreditation standards.

You can ask the provider for the accreditation status of the home or access reports and find information about the process on the Commission’s website — agedcarequality.gov.au.

Quality Standards

The Aged Care Quality Standards measure quality in aged care and have a strong focus on helping consumers to make informed decisions about aged care services.

It gives consumers confidence that aged care providers will work in partnership with them and their families to deliver care that supports their health, wellbeing and quality of life.

The existing Quality Standards include the following focus areas:

Consumer dignity and choice

Ongoing assessment and planning with consumers

Personal care and clinical care

Oakwood Aged Care

Aged care homes

Services and supports for daily living

Service environment

Feedback and complaints

Human resources

Organisational governance

Each of the standards looks at three key aspects:

What is the outcome for the consumer?

What are the expectations of the organisation?

What are the organisational requirements to show that the standard has been met?

This partnership between the provider and consumer needs to work in order for the eight areas to succeed.

All government-funded aged care homes and home care services are measured against these standards and organisations must be able to provide evidence of their compliance and performance with the Quality Standards. The new Aged Care Act will replace these with seven strengthened criteria.

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Managing PPS symptoms and ability changes can be difficult. Open, supp conversations with your loved ones about post-polio can be empowering it can help them to adjust and to plan for the future.

Take some time to learn about post-polio. Encourage your loved ones to share their experiences and let them know they have your support.

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Aged care homes

Charter of Rights

Supporting the Aged Care Quality Standards is a single Charter of Aged Care Rights, protecting the rights of consumers receiving aged care services and their right to be properly looked after, treated well and given high-quality care and services.

All aged care providers have to provide a personally signed copy of the Charter of Rights to every one of their residents or care recipients.

The Charter of Rights covers 14 fundamental protections stating all older Australians receiving any type of government-funded aged care supports have the right to:

1. safe and high quality care and services;

2. be treated with dignity and respect;

3. have your identity, culture and diversity valued and supported;

4. live without abuse and neglect;

5. be informed about your care and services in a way you understand;

6. access all information about yourself, including information about your rights, care and services;

7. have control over and make choices about your care and personal and social life, including where the choices involve personal risk;

Olive Grove Aged Care is a 70 bed facility located in a quiet corner of Salisbury, SA. It offers a peaceful, rural outlook and a variety of stylish accommodation choices and recreation areas. Our residents experience friendly, personalised care, a diverse lifestyle programme and many opportunities for independence in contemporary, homelike surroundings.

8. have control over, and make decisions about, the personal aspects of your daily life, financial affairs and possessions;

9. your independence;

10. be listened to and understood;

11. have a person of your choice, including an aged care advocate, support you or speak on your behalf;

12. complain free from reprisal and to have your complaints dealt with fairly and promptly;

13. personal privacy to have your personal information protected; and

14. exercise your rights without it adversely affecting the way you are treated.

You or your representative will be asked to sign the Charter of Rights to acknowledge that your provider has given you information about your rights in relation to the aged care service.

As a consumer, you have the option of signing the Charter of Aged Care Rights, however, even if you choose not to sign the document you can still access care and services.

Call the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822 or visit agedcarequality.gov.au for more information.

Aged

Aged care homes

Complaints

If you have concerns or complaints about the standard of care you are receiving, you or your representatives are strongly encouraged to firstly take all complaints to the facility management for resolution.

It’s always best to address concerns rather than leaving them to escalate. If you don’t feel comfortable to deal with it yourself, you can ask an advocacy service to help you.

If the matter is not resolved, you can then make complaints to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822 or visit agedcarequality.gov.au .

Anyone can make a complaint about anything that may constitute a breach of the service provider’s responsibilities to past or present residents.

You should refer to the ‘Find a provider’ tool on the My Aged Care website to determine your care options. The tool has the latest information about each facility and its Star Rating, factoring in 24/7 registered nursing data and residents’ experiences.

Here’s what you need to know about each Star Rating:

 One Star — needs significant improvement

 Two Stars — needs improvement

 Three Stars — satisfactory quality of care

 Four Stars — positive quality of care

 Five Stars — the highest quality of care

You can write a letter to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission: Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission GPO Box 9819, Adelaide, SA 5000

Your letter to lodge a complaint should include:

 your name, address and telephone number;

 the date you are lodging your complaint;

 details of your complaint, including specific dates of events and relevant comments;

 the name of the aged care home or service and where it is located;

 the name of the consumer that your complaint relates to and how they were affected.

Genuine care bringing positivity to life

Feel the warmth of personalised care, share moments with friends and family, and enjoy a vibrant lifestyle doing things that are meaningful to you

Carinya Myrtle Bank 08 8130 6444

Charles Young Morphettville 08 8350 3600

Hillside Heathfield 08 8339 4815

Holly Hackham 08 8392 6700

Aged care homes

Familial and emotional transition

It may be hard for family members to adjust to the change and establish a visitation schedule when you first enter an aged care facility. The transition to a care home may impact the person entering into care, along with others who are used to staying at their home — e.g., grandchildren. Entering a family member into an aged care home against their will is illegal unless they have lost the capacity to make that decision or take care of themselves. An enduring power of attorney or an appointed guardian can decide on behalf of a person deemed incapable of making the transition themselves if it is in their best interest. Generally, however, the decision to receive care and enter a new environment should be made by the person it affects most.

It is important to establish a sense of autonomy for a person entering a care facility and reaffirm their decision to make the switch. Care facilities may carry a stigma for an older person that makes them feel like they are surrendering their freedom when they are, in fact, using their decision-making abilities to improve their quality of life.

Requesting the support of experienced and skilled care workers to assist with difficult tasks can ensure that they are done properly, timely and with the right assistance. Additionally, the care sector is an ever-changing landscape evolving to support people in a considerate and calculated manner.

Regardless of a person’s background and their sense of physical or mental agility, no one can be a jack-of-all-trades in every life skill. To account for this, the government has introduced a 24/7 registered nursing requirement to ensure that at least one RN is always on site and on duty.

Please refer to page 37 for information about new reforms to the aged care system in Australia that will ensure older people and their families feel a sense of safety and security during their transition.

For family members who may be concerned about the transition to residential care and how their role as a carer has changed, please contact the Carer Gateway for more information. To learn more about the Carer Gateway, please refer to page 39.

Ask the person seeking care

Depending on a person’s background and circumstances, they may be more receptive to the

Australia is a diverse country filled with people from all walks of life and, as a result, some people may be sensitive to certain settings.

Care leavers who enter aged care facilities can experience uncomfortable feelings and triggers due to trauma from being in institutional care as a young person. Forgotten Australians, former child migrants and the Stolen Generation are all groups of people who are considered care leavers. If someone is comfortable sharing their history with you in an open discussion about aged care and their needs, it may help to refine your research and get on the right track.

Similarly, the path to aged care can be complex and sudden, as urgent and emergency admissions into aged care can make it harder to research and plan ahead. It is a good idea for carers to have an emergency care plan in place, listing the medications, personal details and relevant contact information of the person they care for.

FEEL AT HOME WITH

Applying to a home Waiting lists

Applying to a home

As soon as you have been approved by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) for government‑funded residential care, you can begin looking for your future home.

You can do this yourself or you can hire a placement consultant to do this for you.

When searching for nursing homes, decide what features are important to you. Are you looking for an extra service facility, a specific cultural environment or a facility with pets?

It is important to know and understand the types of homes that are available in your area because this may affect the cost and services you receive.

You can also use residential respite as a way of finding out about the quality of care at a nursing home before deciding if the home is a good place for you to move into.

When you have narrowed down which homes would suit your needs and wants, it is best to apply to a number of homes to increase your chances of finding a place quickly.

Waiting for residential care

Nursing homes don’t always have bed vacancies available, it is likely that you will have to wait for a period of time for a bed to be made available.

Some aged care homes may have waiting lists and the length of these varies between homes. If your situation is urgent, please inform the staff at the home.

Generally, bed places are offered to people on the waiting list who have a health priority or have been waiting for a place and have risen to the top of the list.

You can be on as many waiting lists for facilities as you would like, but once you accept a vacancy offer, you will be removed from all other nursing home waiting lists.

If you require a bed urgently, you may not have as much choice with the facility you move into. You may have to accept the first offer that is made to you, no matter if it is your first facility choice or not.

Aged care home operators can’t predict or know when a vacancy will occur, so it is important to keep in regular contact with the aged care homes to ensure they are aware you are still interested in admission to their home.

If you’ve engaged the services of a placement consultant, they will monitor vacancies for you.

It is ideal to plan ahead and take the time to choose the facilities that you want to live in. That way, no matter who offers you a bed first, you will be satisfied with the placement.

Deciding on a home

What happens when a vacancy occurs?

The person in charge of the aged care home will either ring you, your carer, family or phone the social worker if you are in hospital, to let you know they have a spot available for you.

You may be asked to make a decision within hours because there are usually other people also waiting.

You or the relevant hospital worker will need to arrange for your transfer to the home as soon as you can.

If you aren’t able to move into a home straight away, you will be given seven days after you have agreed to accept the placement to move in and this is called ‘pre-entry leave.’

You may be charged for your care and become eligible to receive financial assistance from the government following the date of acceptance.

Once your place in the aged care home has been confirmed, you will be provided with two or three important documents that will address all the information and details you need to know. This information should also include the Resident Agreement, the Accommodation Agreement or an Extra Services Agreement if applicable.

It is not acceptable to be charged any fees or be expected to make any donation before you formally accept a place in an aged care home.

Deciding on a home

There’s a number of things to consider when deciding which aged care home will best suit your needs.

Deciding to move into a home can be a really big decision, so you want to make sure you choose a nursing home that not only suits your needs, but also feels like home.

Making a list of your personal preferences and requirements can make it easier to shortlist aged care facilities; this list could include the care you require and lifestyle options.

One of the best ways to gauge the environment and atmosphere of a nursing home is by visiting it.

Contact the home you are considering to organise a tour of the facility; in most cases, your family should be able to come with you.

By visiting the facility, you will be able to assess whether the nursing home meets your needs and if it is a place you would be happy to live.

Any questions you have can be answered by your tour guide from the aged care home.

Additionally, you can have a talk with the site manager to understand how the aged care facility runs and have all your questions answered.

The following is a brief checklist of areas you should consider before deciding to move in:

Is the home clean, fresh and in good repair?

Are the staff warm and friendly? You want to be able to feel at ease and comfortable in communicating with the staff.

How many staff work at the home and what is the nighttime ratio of staff to residents?

Is the home secure, particularly at night?

Are there keypad locks on the doors or are CCTV cameras installed?

Does the home have the provision for you to age in place and remain as your care needs increase?

Do they offer single rooms with ensuites?

If you are looking to move into a home with your spouse, is this provision available?

Are clothes laundered on or off site?

Does the room have access to a private phone line, internet connection, NBN or pay-TV?

Are the floor coverings clean and fresh or is there an odour throughout the home?

Is the room temperature comfortable for you and are you able to control your own room temperature?

What personal items and furnishings can you bring into the home and how will they be stored?

Inspect the kitchen if possible and find out if meals are cooked on site or are delivered.

Are the meals flexible and will they meet your special requirements?

Are there spaces for you to meet with family and friends to celebrate special events?

If you like pets, find out if the home is pet-friendly and whether they have pets at the home or a visiting pet program.

Be sure to enquire about the range of activities available and entertainment programs as these are vital for your ongoing wellbeing.

Any additional services or amenities that are provided by aged care homes can really enhance your experience living in a facility.

Beneficial services and amenities could include:

outdoor areas or gardens — if relevant, check whether they are secure; a hairdressing salon or day spa; an on-site café; a chapel or provision for religious services; a gymnasium; or allied health services.

It is important to have all your queries answered, as it can really help you gauge whether a facility is the right fit for you.

Deciding on a home

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Providing excellent nursing and personal care in a spacious, home away from home since 1983.

With a range of rooms, freshly prepared meals and a lively entertainment program, nd out why we’re the right choice for families like yours.

Moving into a home

The process of moving in is often referred to as the ‘admission process’ and starts with an initial introduction, orientation and assessment.

During the assessment, a staff member will gather information about any medical conditions, family history, food preferences, social and recreational likes, dislikes and interests.

This information will be used to create a care plan. The care plan is updated regularly and you can request to see a copy at any time.

The care plan will be an overview of your care needs, wishes and outcomes you want to achieve while living in the facility.

Family members and carers are welcome to assist in identifying social and care needs.

What can you bring with you?

Your aged care home will already have most of the furniture and furnishings, such as beds, chairs, wardrobes, curtains and floor coverings, so it may be helpful to directly ask the home what you can bring with you. Below, you’ll find an overview of some of the main things to consider when moving in.

Personal items

Having personal belongings around you may help you to feel at home in your new environment.

Some people may like to bring family photographs, their favourite films, books, music or other treasured items.

Clothing

It is important to ensure that personal clothing is properly labelled. Most nursing homes will launder your clothing either on site or through a laundry service.

Bring enough clothing to allow for items being washed as it might take a couple of days before clean laundry is returned to you.

Due to the large volume of washing, nursing home laundries often use commercial washing and drying machines so make sure your clothes are machine washable and labelled with your full name.

Continence aids

Residents with higher-level care needs, who require products for the management of continence, will have these provided by the aged care home. Other residents may be required to purchase these items.

Radios, TVs, computers and digital clocks

Residents can bring with them their preferred electrical and electronic items. Each item will be checked, tested and tagged by the home prior to use.

Moving into a home

Furniture

It is quite common to have space available for some items, like a favourite chair, small table, dresser and bedside light, but it’s best to check with the aged care home to see what you can bring.

Medication

It is important that you bring all prescription medication you’re currently taking with you on admission. Care staff will manage and administer the medication to ensure safe and quality use of your medicines.

Non-prescription items, such as topical creams, herbal remedies and vitamins, should be declared to the staff.

Toiletries

The aged care home supplies the basic necessities, such as toothpaste, soap and toilet tissue. Specific items or particular brands need to be purchased at your own expense.

Mobility and wheelchairs

Wheelchairs, scooters, walking frames and other mobility aids will be assessed to ensure that these are appropriate to your current situation. The maintenance and upkeep of scooters and wheelchairs is your responsibility.

Making the transition

Once you have been offered a place in an aged care home, it is also important to organise your medical and financial matters.

If you have not done so already, this is a good time to talk to your loved ones about your wishes for your future medical care.

Writing your wishes in a letter or statement can help guide health professionals and those close to you if you become seriously ill or injured and can’t make decisions about your own care.

This is called an Advance Care Directive and it should include clear and specific details about treatments you would accept or refuse.

Keep your Advance Care Directive in a place that is easily accessible and share the document with your doctor and loved ones.

Who should you tell about your move?

It is recommended that you tell your family, carer, friends, neighbours, community centre or council and any health professionals, such as your doctor or pharmacist, that you’re leaving your home to enter an aged care home.

If you need to change doctors, you can ask to have your medical history sent to your new doctor.

It is also a good idea to keep track of any health professionals you see and make a note of your current medical treatments and medication so you can discuss this with your new aged care home as part of your care plan.

Daily living in a nursing home

Moving house is often stressful and it may take time to settle into your new environment. Here’s what you can expect from life in a nursing home.

If you are thinking about moving into a nursing home, you’re likely to experience a massive range of emotions ranging from relief and excitement to uncertainty and apprehension.

Living in a nursing home will be different and it may take a little bit for you to settle into your new life.

It’s your home

There may be some ‘common’ areas that are shared with other residents, such as the dining room and lounge room, but your room is your own.

Nursing homes encourage you to bring personal items for your room, such as pictures, photos, ornaments, furniture throws and smaller pieces of furniture.

Find out prior to moving what extra personal belongings you can bring.

Social aspects and routines

The chances are you’ve moved from living in a house on your own or with a partner, so you’ll need to get used to a few more people being around. However, the choice is yours as to how social you want to be.

You can choose to be social in the communal areas and spend time with other residents or remain in your room to enjoy your own company.

Many nursing homes have strong links to the local community. You can choose to get involved with activities, such as meeting local school children or people from other groups.

As well as adjusting to new people, there may be some changes to your daily routines, such as slightly different meal and shower times.

Multiple activities

Nursing homes offer many social aspects and multiple activities, such as exercise classes, religious services/classes, bingo, arts and craft, concerts and outings. It doesn’t mean you have to take part — you still decide what you want to do.

You can continue to enjoy your usual activities outside the nursing home, such as attending any regular classes or meeting friends in your favourite coffee shop.

Whether it’s reading or watching TV in your room, chatting with other residents or going to the cinema with friends, the choice of how you spend your time is yours.

Daily living

Partners and pets

Some homes offer rooms for couples in the form of adjoining rooms, double rooms or even a single unit for couples. This means couples can continue living together even if they have different care and support needs.

While most homes do not allow residents to have their personal pets, many homes now have ‘live-in’ animals such as cats, rabbits, dogs and birds. Some nursing homes also arrange for a variety of animals to visit regularly.

Family and friends

Your family and friends are always encouraged to visit and, depending on your health, you will be able to come and go as you please.

Visit friends, enjoy family celebrations, go shopping and even go on holiday.

Many nursing homes also have special areas available for private functions. This means you can still hold special events for family and friends in your nursing home.

Going on a holiday

You can still go on a holiday when you live in an aged care home. You can leave the aged care home for up to 52 nights in a financial year. This is called ‘social leave.’

The government will continue to pay subsidies on your behalf to the aged care home for 28 ‘social leave’ days and you still have to pay your daily fees and income-tested fees.

The52-nightrulecan’tbeextended.

Social leave only counts if you stay overnight at a place that isn’t your aged care facility.

For instance, if you decided to, you could spend your social leave by going away from the facility every weekend of the year.

Your holiday leave will be reset every year on 1 July and this balance will move with you from provider to provider.

If you become sick and have to be transferred to the hospital, it will not impact your planned holiday leave.

The government allows aged care residents to have unlimited hospital leave, so you do not have to worry that a hospital stay will impact your other leave. However, you must continue to pay your fees and accommodation costs during this time.

Health and safety

Residential aged care providers will go above and beyond to ensure that visitors, staff and residents are kept safe from disease, infection and general sickness. As part of their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for residents, visitors may be required to undergo screening for COVID-19, take certain precautions and do their utmost to ensure the safety of those in their care.

If someone intends to visit you but seems uncertain about the health and safety protocols in place, refer them to your provider for more information. Older age remains the biggest risk factor for severe COVID-19 and vaccination offers added protection to help reduce the risk of severe illness or hospitalisation of aged care residents.

The Department of Health and Aged Care continues to target support for residential aged care homes to arrange COVID-19 vaccinations with local primary care providers such as GPs, community pharmacists and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services.

As of 30 October 2024:

72.7% of aged care residents have received a booster dose in the last 12 months

8,241 aged care residents have received a vaccination in the last 28 days (compared to 9,225 in the 28 days prior)

Sharing, supporting, respecting, helping and loving.

Bene offers a full range of lifestyle and social activities, respite and permanent residential care, retirement living, and a variety of home support services that can be tailored to meet your individual needs. Discover our vibrant communities at Woodville North, St Clair, St Agnes, Campbelltown, and Hahndorf. Get in touch to learn more about how Bene can help you.

Welcome to care with that Bene feeling.

Daily living

Preparation

WHAT.YOU.NEED TO KNOW Preparation

You should specify your care needs and identify the support you currently receive before finding an aged care provider.

If you want to access government-funded supports, register with My Aged Care first. This can be done online or via a phone call to the My Aged Care contact centre on 1800 200 422.

An operator will ask you a number of questions about your personal circumstances and care needs as they set up your central client record.

Examples of the questions you may be asked are:

Are you currently receiving aged care services?

Are you getting support from a carer or family member?

Can you prepare your own meals and do housework?

Do you need assistance taking a shower or bath and do you need help getting dressed?

Are there any health concerns or did you have a recent fall?

Do you feel lonely or isolated?

Are there any safety risks in the home?

The aim of this screening is to figure out what needs and support you require and whether you are eligible for a further assessment in person. Following this conversation, you will be contacted by someone from either the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) or a local Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) for an assessment to determine your abilities and what level of care you require.

Here is a list of documents and information you should prepare for the assessment:

your Medicare card and a form of identification, for instance, your Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card, driver’s licence, passport or healthcare card;

any notes or referrals from your doctor;

any information about previous home or aged care services you have received;

any details about support you receive from family, friends or the community;

any questions or information you wish to share with the assessor about aged care.

your doctor’s contact information;

a translator, Auslan interpreter or support person if required.

STEP 2

Aged care checklist

Other factors in preparing ahead of starting aged care services include organising your finances and getting advice about how you can pay for any support at home or a place in an aged care facility. It’s also worth making sure you collect medical records, have details about medication handy, have an Advance Care Directive in place and ensure your will is up to date.

Aged care checklist

When trying to decide which aged care home or service best suits your needs, a checklist is an excellent evaluation method.

Take note of your first impressions when you call the nursing home or service. Are staff friendly and willing to answer your questions? When considering a nursing home, ask to tour the facility and speak to people already living in the care home. You may know someone who lives there or has a loved one at the facility — ask them about their experience.

You may want to consider a short-term respite stay at the home. That way, you can experience what it is like to live in the facility before you make the final decision as to whether it is a place you would like to move into permanently.

You should ask an aged care provider the following series of questions when assessing a facility or service to determine if it is right for you.

The provider

Is the provider for-profit or not-for-profit and churchor charity-based?

Do the owners/directors of the company have a health and/or aged care background?

When was the last time a complaint was made to the provider? How did they deal with the complaint and what was it about?

Are residents and their families encouraged to have input into services offered and the quality of care?

The facility

Does the home look/smell fresh and clean?

Are the carpets and floor coverings clean?

Is the inside temperature comfortable?

Does the home meet safety regulations?

Is there good and clear signage throughout the facility?

Are there secure and interesting outdoor areas?

Are there spaces and activities to support people living with special needs, such as dementia?

Do the residents appear clean and neat?

Can you stay in the facility if your needs change?

Considering aged care for a loved one?

At Bupa Aged Care, whether for respite short-stay care or as a new home, our experienced registered nurses and carers aim to provide the care each resident needs, in the way they prefer.

Care is ﬁrst and foremost

We embrace and support residents to live their day their way, with teams dedicated to their wellbeing.

People rarely expect to need aged care, but if your family does, we’ll guide you through the steps.

Bupa Campbelltown 1 Steele Street, Campbelltown, SA 5074

Bupa Enﬁeld 5 Bradford Court, Enﬁeld, SA 5085

Bupa Morphettville 29-31 Austral Terrace, Morphettville, SA 5043

Bupa Woodville 104 Woodville Road Woodville, SA 5011

To book a visit with one of our homes in South Australia, call us on 1800 718 357 or visit bupaagedcare.com.au/region/adelaide

Admission

Aged care checklist

The staff

Are the staff friendly and welcoming?

Do staff members provide clear answers to your questions?

How do staff and residents interact?

Do staff look like they take their time with residents to give them personal attention?

What is the ratio of nurses/care workers to residents on weekdays, weekends and at nighttime?

The room

Is it a single or shared room?

Is the room you’re shown the actual room you’ll be moving into or is it only for display?

Does the room have an ensuite or are the bathrooms shared?

Are there provisions for married couples?

How is the room allocation determined?

Is there access to a private phone line, internet connection or pay-TV?

How is the heating/cooling controlled?

What personal items and furnishings can you bring to the home?

Are there provisions for safe storage of personal items?

Are there easily accessible alarm buttons in the room and how many?

Are staff respecting residents’ privacy and do they knock before entering a resident’s room?

Day‑to‑day living

Can family and friends take part in activities?

Are meals cooked on site or delivered?

Are menus flexible and able to meet special requirements?

What types of individual and group activities are offered and how often?

Are there activities that include cultural and spiritual preferences?

Are there any activities organised together with the local community?

What special events are celebrated?

Does the facility have pets on site or offer a pet visitation program?

Health and personal care

Is there a GP on site or can you continue to see a physician of your choice?

How do staff administer and monitor resident’s medicine intake?

How are medical emergencies handled?

What other services, such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, are available on site?

Is there a dietitian or nutritionist part of the care team?

Does the facility have a wellness program?

How does the facility deal with end-of-life/palliative care?

Are any provisions, such as continence pads, rationed?

What are my payment options?

What is the breakdown of the payable fees?

Can you negotiate on the fees and how they are paid?

Costs of residential care

Aged care homes charge a range of fees to cover the cost of care, accommodation and living expenses; these can vary enormously between facilities, from resident to resident.

Understanding the rules and seeking specialist advice from an aged care financial advisor to minimise costs is recommended. See page 76 for more information on financial advice.

Your income and financial assets will affect your entitlements. The income- and asset-tests are combined to ensure a consistent fees policy.

This will address the issue of asset-rich, income-poor residents paying for all of their accommodation and nothing for care/the income-rich, asset-poor residents paying for their care, but not for accommodation.

The cost of care is divided into three parts — daily care fees, accommodation payments and a means-tested care fee.

Daily care fee

As a resident in an aged care home, you are asked to pay a daily fee as a contribution towards the cost of care and living expenses, such as meals and refreshments, cleaning, laundry, heating and cooling, as well as social activities.

In addition, the daily fee contributes to the costs for personal care, including assistance with daily living such as bathing, dressing and toileting, assistance with mobility aids, therapy and certain medical or pharmaceutical services.

The maximum basic daily fee for all permanent residents who enter an aged care home is 85 percent of the maximum base rate of the Age Pension for a single person.

This is the same amount you will be charged if you’re staying in a nursing home for a temporary stay as a respite resident. It is generally adjusted each March and September at the same time as the Age Pension.

As of 1 January 2025, the maximum basic daily fee is $63.57 per day for all full pensioners and some part pensioners. Depending on your income and level of care, you may also be asked to pay an income-tested fee as part of the daily fees. However, this does not apply to respite residents in aged care.

As specialists, we have the knowledge, experience and professional skills to help you. It is our role to guide you through the overload of information and uncertainty, helping you to achieve the best outcomes for your family and loved ones.

We can help you with the following:

• best option for paying the entry fees

• confirming affordability of care

• best option for the family home

• best option for your income & assets

• maximising Government entitlements

• minimising ongoing costs

• maximising inheritance

• completion of forms

• negotiations

• written financial advice

• staying on track

Costs of residential care

If you do receive income other than your pension, you will be assessed by Centrelink, or Veterans’ Affairs if you are a veteran, to determine how much extra you can be asked to pay as an income-tested fee.

If you were a permanent resident in an aged care home prior to 1 July 2014, you will continue to be subject to the pre-1 July 2014 rules governing the basic daily fee unless you opt into the new fee arrangements.

Accommodation payments

Accommodation payments are different from daily care fees and they are used by the aged care home as capital funding to improve the quality of the buildings and services they provide.

Not everyone pays an accommodation payment; it depends on the value of your assets and income at the time of entry into care.

If you have more than $61,500 in assets and income, you can be asked to pay an accommodation payment, but you must be left with at least $61,500 in assets after your payment (rates as of January 2025).

Means‑tested care fee

The means-tested care fee is an extra contribution on top of the other residential aged care payments and the amount can differ from person to person.

The means-tested care fee will incorporate your financial assets and your income, then determine how much you will be contributing to the cost of your personal and clinical care services.

This contribution amount can fluctuate depending on if your income or assets change.

There are annual and lifetime caps on the means-tested care fee; there’s an annual cap of $34,174.16 that will apply to your means-tested contribution to your care costs, together with a lifetime cap of $82,018.15 (January 2025 rates).

Depending on your personal financial situation, you may not have to pay this contribution towards the cost of your care.

How much will I pay?

If you can afford to, you will pay a basic fee of up to 85 percent of the maximum base rate of the Age Pension for a single person, a means-tested (your income and assets combined) contribution to your accommodation and a means-tested contribution to your care.

The maximum means-tested contribution will be allocated to your accommodation payment until the full cost is paid and then to your care fee.

Any income-tested contributions you may have made as a Home Care Package recipient will be taken into account in calculating lifetime care expenditure.

The family home will continue to be exempt from the aged care assets-test if occupied by a spouse or other protected person.

Even when the value of your former home is included as an assessable asset, its value will be capped at $206,039.20 (January 2025 prices). It is only counted in determining your ability to pay for your accommodation.

Choose how you pay

When moving into an aged care home, if you have the capacity to contribute to the cost of your accommodation, you can now choose how you pay for it.

You have a choice of three options, however, if you start with one option and change your mind, you have up to 28 days from the date you move into the care home to decide how you wish to pay.

Payment option 1:

Refundable accommodation deposit (RAD)

This is a single payment made to the care home and works similar to an interest-free loan.

The balance of the deposit is guaranteed to be refunded when you leave the home, but only after any amounts which have been used to pay for agreed services have been deducted.

Payment option 2:

Daily accommodation payment (DAP)

In this option, you pay a periodic payment (usually on a monthly basis) for your accommodation; it is calculated based on the daily rate of the RAD.

To calculate the daily payment equivalent of the refundable deposit, the RAD is multiplied by the maximum permissible interest rate (MPIR) and divided by 365 days.

The MPIR is set by the government and is updated every three months — as of 1 January 2025 it is 8.42 percent.

The daily payment amount must be equivalent to the refundable deposit amount and is the maximum you can be charged per day for the room.

These periodical payments are not refunded when you leave the home.

Payment option 3:

Combination payment of RAD and DAP

If you wish, you can also choose to pay a combination of both a RAD and a DAP. For example, let’s assume the RAD is $400,000 but you want to only pay half of a deposit ($200,000) and the other as a DAP.

Use this formula to calculate the DAP:

(Balance of price x MPIR) ÷ 365 = ($400,000 - $200,000) x 8.42% ÷ 365 = $46.13 per day (MPIR from January 2025).

Alternatively, you can use our easy to use fee estimator calculator on https://www.agedcareguide.com.au/fee-estimators.

For further information, call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422, Centrelink on 13 23 00 or contact a placement consultant and financial advisor.

Disclaimer-Thisinformationisasummaryofthemainprovisionsrelatingtoagedcarecostsandwhilecarehas beentakentoensurethatitiscurrentondateofpublication,itshouldnotbetakenasanauthoritative source. Pleasephone1800200422formorecomplete,up-to-dateinformation.

Costs of residential care

Managing the complications of aged care

Many older Australians take up an aged care bed within one month of being assessed for residential aged care. This is often triggered by an unexpected event, such as a fall or a decline in health.

The financial decisions surrounding aged care may be overwhelming due to the different funding mechanisms that apply.

You may want to know more about your options, the associated costs, how your Age Pension may be affected and whether you need to sell your home.

These can be further complicated by the impact that a move to care has in terms of the pension paid by Centrelink and the fact that the family home is treated differently for pension purposes than for aged care purposes.

Throw in the payment/deposit system — refundable accommodation deposit (RAD) or a daily accommodation payment (DAP), negotiating various fees with a facility, filling in Centrelink forms and, then, things can quickly become overwhelming.

Just getting a basic understanding of what forms you need to complete, when to complete them, and where to send them can be difficult.

By understanding the rules and being able to apply them to individual circumstances, financial advisors are able to save their clients thousands of dollars.

Things you ‘shouldnot’ do

Decide to sell your property before understanding the Age Pension and aged care fee impact.

Choose how you will pay the aged care fees before understanding all of your options.

Make untested or inaccurate assumptions about your ability to meet the aged care costs.

Allow or enable the dominant family member to influence the decisions.

Incorrectly assume that all decisions must be made before you can get the care needed.

Instead, seek help from a certified financial planner who is experienced in aged care.

How an expert can help

The best financial strategies and options will depend on your specific circumstances, objectives and situation.

A financial advisor can help you focus on the information and issues that are important to you and your specific financial situation.

While every situation is different, there are some common elements of aged care financial advice that professional consultants often provide to their clients, including:

Strategies to fund accommodation payments

Financial modelling of multiple care options

Review and planning of tax implications

Maximising government pensions

Minimising nursing home fees

Negotiating with aged care facilities

Important questions to ask

Some important questions you should ask before engaging the services of a financial advisor include:

Do they specialise or have experience with aged care?

What licences, credentials or other certifications do they have?

Will they provide their advice in ‘plain English’ and in writing? Will they deal with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs or Centrelink?

How much do they charge?

Is the service a one-off or an ongoing service?

You should be open with your financial advisor about your financial situation and what assets are available so your advisor can provide the best advice for your situation.

Estate planning

That is why, when choosing a financial advisor, you should remember their decisions are mindful and measured as opposed to emotional or impulsive and actively listen.

What will it cost?

Fees will vary and it pays to contact a number of experts for a quote on their services so you can compare.

While financial advisory services do cost, the amount of money they can save you in the long run can make the advice and services worthwhile.

Seeking help from an expert means they will be able to access all the benefits and schemes available for your situation that you may not have known about.

Financial counselling

If you’re experiencing financial difficulties and have little income, you may be able to receive free financial counselling services.

Operating from community organisations, financial counsellors can provide independent and confidential information, support and advice on a range of areas including consumer credit law, bankruptcy and debt-collection laws, industry hardship policies and government concession frameworks.

Find out more about financial counselling services in your state or territory on financialcounsellingaustralia.org.au or call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 to speak to a financial counsellor over the phone.

Disclaimer:Theinformationinthisbookisgeneralinnatureanddoesnotconstitutelegalorfinancialadvice. Readersshouldseektheirownpersonallegalandfinancialadvicefromasuitablyqualifiedpractitioner.

Estate planning

A well‑prepared and executed estate plan can not only save your estate unnecessary costs in the future but can also save your loved ones from unnecessary stress after your death.

Estate planning is the process in which you decide what you want to happen with your estate, known as your assets, when you die.

It is a plan that involves you considering who you want to be executor of your estate (the person in charge of your will), who you want to benefit from your estate, your funeral wishes and who you want to look after your financial and personal/health matters if you were to lose capacity during your lifetime, for example, by way of dementia or stroke.

Effective estate planning ensures your assets are protected and distributed to the right people according to your wishes. Your will is one of the most vital documents in this process.

A properly drafted, up-to-date will is the only way that you can be sure your assets will be dealt with as you wish when you die.

If you die without a will or your will is invalid, your estate will be treated as an ‘intestate’ and your assets will be distributed under the SA & NT intestacy laws to your surviving relatives after all your debts have been paid.

Enduring power of attorney and guardianship

Most people know you should write a will to make sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes when you die, but what happens if you are left unable to make decisions for yourself due to accident, illness or other circumstances?

While a family member can step in at this time and start assisting you with decision making, they may lack the legal authority to make some decisions.

By designating an enduring power of attorney and an enduring power of guardianship, you can nominate a trusted family member or friend, or an organisation in the case of an enduring power of attorney, to step in and make decisions on your behalf.

In SA, an enduring power of attorney is limited to making decisions about your finances and property only. To appoint someone to make personal, lifestyle and treatment decisions in SA, you need to make an enduring power of guardianship (EPG).

An enduring guardian can make decisions about where you live, what services you engage and provide consent for health care services and treatment. Similarly, an enduring guardian can’t make any financial or property decisions on your behalf.

In the NT, there are simply different types of power of attorney that can make different decisions on your behalf. You must have full legal capacity to make an enduring power of attorney, enduring power of guardianship or Advance Care Directive/Advance Personal Plan document, which means you understand what the document is and what it does.

Each Australian State and Territory has separate powers of attorney legislation so, for more information, you should contact the trustee or advocate services in your state or territory.

Estate planning

If you are looking for a supportive environment with safety and security, you might like to consider a well‑managed retirement village.

The size and levels of accommodation vary — from self-contained independent living to serviced apartments.

Think about the type of village you wish to live in and what you can afford on an ongoing basis.

It is essential that you ask questions to understand the financial implications of ‘owning’ a unit in a village.

Seek expert advice, as well as that of your chosen village’s residents’ committee. Also, be sure to assess the cultural and social sides of the village to ensure they meet your expectations.

What is a retirement village?

Retirement villages are designed for people aged over 55 as an alternative housing and lifestyle option.

Retirement living Retirement living and your choices

They are popular with people who feel they need more security, support or company, but want to maintain their independence.

Independent living

Independent Living Units (ILU), also known as ‘villas’ or ‘apartments,’ are designed for active retirees. They range from one to four bedrooms and may be within a high- or medium-rise complex, terrace housing arrangement, stand-alone or semi-detached dwelling.

Serviced apartments

Serviced apartments are generally one or two bedrooms and provide residents with some daily living assistance. Services may include cleaning, laundry and assistance with personal care. While a small kitchenette is usually included within the apartment, meals are provided in a dining-room setting.

Residential aged care

Some retirement village complexes also offer residential low-level care and high-level care accommodation, as well as Home Care Packages for people with varying care needs. You will need an aged care assessment to access either of these care options. Go to page 22 to read more about the Home Care Packages or page 47 for information about aged care homes.

Types of villages

There are two types of retirement villages:

Resident-funded villages

Donor-funded villages

Retirement living

Resident-funded villages are owned and operated by the private sector or not-for-profit organisations on a commercial basis to produce a profit or surplus.

The village is funded by the residents who ‘purchase’ their villa or apartment under one of the tenure arrangements.

The residents also contribute to the village’s capital infrastructure and the cost of ongoing management.

Donor-funded villages are normally owned and operated by not-for-profit organisations or church groups. They include an element of charitable subsidy and entry is generally restricted to the needy.

Ownership

The various forms of occupation or ownership rights are referred to as ‘tenure.’ The legal forms of tenure include: Strata Title ownership, leasehold estates, licences to occupy, freehold or company share arrangement with related residency entitlements.

Regardless of the type of tenure, residents are consulted about the ongoing management of the village. This ensures that the village you have chosen cannot be changed without the approval of the residents.

Deposit or entry contribution?

Before moving into a village, you will need to pay an entry contribution which is refunded if you move out of the village. However, a deferred management fee (DMF) usually applies and is deducted from the amount you receive back. This must be specified in the entry agreement or contract.

The cost of entering a village depends on the facilities and services offered. Monthly service and maintenance charges also apply and you may have to pay for extra personal services like laundry.

To reserve a villa, a nominal deposit is required and the village will have a policy on how long it can be held for you. Should you change your mind within this specified time, the deposit will be refunded.

If you enter into a binding arrangement with the village, the deposit will be part of the purchase price.

In some states and territories, purchasers are entitled to a refund during a ‘cooling off’ period following the signing of a residency contract.

Be sure to make enquiries regarding this as some villages may require an administration fee for refunds.

Fees and charges

There are many fees and charges associated with living in a retirement village. Ensure you are provided with full details of all applicable charges and what they cover.

For example, there may be a regular maintenance charge that covers the running costs of the entire village.

These costs may include upkeep of facilities, staff, council and water rates from common areas, security, insurances including workers’ compensation and public liability, contents insurance for common areas as well as village building insurance. In addition, the charge may also contribute toward a ‘sinking fund’ for major repairs and improvements.

What happens upon vacating?

While the resale value will be determined by the market, there are factors in a retirement village that can add value to your villa or apartment. These include good management, attractiveness and the services and amenities available to enhance retirement living.

Can’t afford to buy?

Some retirement villages offer accommodation rental units, sometimes known as ‘periodic tenancy,’ although these are generally reserved for people with limited financial resources and are usually income assessed. You don’t own the property but pay a weekly fee for the accommodation under the Residential Tenancy Agreement, plus bond. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to receive rent assistance from Centrelink.

Retirement living

Finding the right village

When choosing a retirement village, be clear about what you want, what you are prepared to compromise on and what you definitely don’t want.

To help you with the decision-making process, here are some points to consider:

Finances: Know your budget, what you can afford and what other ongoing costs are required. Always seek expert legal and financial advice. Ask questions and ensure you fully understand all the financial and legal implications of living in a retirement village before you sign anything or hand any money over.

Lifestyle: Think carefully about how you spend your time now and how you want to spend your time in the future. For instance, if you are looking for a complete lifestyle change, you might consider a resort retirement village. Many villages now offer special interest facilities, such as golf greens, tennis courts and pet services. You may also want to think about whether you want a garden or access to one.

Support: One of the attractions of a retirement village is the peace of mind of 24-hour help and assistance. Many villages now offer additional home support services. This is ideal if you need additional help with personal care, meals, laundry and domestic assistance.

Location: When looking at locations, you may want to consider whether you want to be closer to family or stay in or near the community you’re already in. You may have always dreamed of living by the sea or in the country, while proximity to shops may also be important to you.

Amenities: Villages now offer a massive range of amenities including libraries, restaurants, community rooms and barbeque areas. Ultimately, you will be paying for these amenities through your weekly or monthly payments, so you may want to think about whether an all-weather indoor heated swimming pool or the caravan and boat parking is important to your needs.

Other accommodation: Your or your partner’s needs may change in the future, so you may also want to consider what other types of accommodation are available. Many developments are now offering serviced apartments and residential aged care at the same location, which means that even though your needs might change, you can still live in the same community.

Choosing a village

When you have found a village that appeals to you and you feel would suit your particular needs, it is recommended that you don’t rush into making a commitment.

Instead, visit the village often, get to know the management and staff as well as the residents’ committee and seek answers to all your questions. Also, request a copy of the village rules. These are generally appropriate rules to enable residents and guests to enjoy the village.

Life in a village

Living in a retirement village can offer a supportive environment and encourage independence, as well as the ability to enjoy social and leisure activities.

Many retirement village residents say they have become more active, confident and social since moving to a retirement village — some go as far as to say they wish they’d done it sooner.

While each village has its own culture, they are based on senior-friendly criteria and a community-focused environment. You’ll be surrounded, generally, by like-minded, friendly and welcoming neighbours.

Independence

A major appeal of retirement living is that help is at hand if there is an emergency situation and the on-site security gives you peace of mind. Furthermore, management and staff can help organise additional support and services, such as home maintenance, organising laundry and dry cleaning.

If you need some assistance to remain living independently, you can arrange for home support services like meal delivery or personal care. You can choose to pay for these services yourself or you may be eligible to receive a government subsidy for these services. Find out more under ‘Support at home’ on page 16.

Sense of community

Most retirement villages have a great sense of community and while you are encouraged to participate in activities and join social events, it’s not obligatory to go to everything on offer. Depending on the village, some of these activities may include aerobics, water/aqua aerobics, card afternoons, Probus, personal training, knitting and sewing circles or outings to places of interest.

Regular ‘Happy Hours’ and afternoons spent watching televised sport are also popular activities among some residents.

Retirement living

Seek help before signing anything

The idea of downsizing and living in a retirement living community may be appealing, but there are certain factors that should be considered prior to making the transition from your home to ‘the village.’

Retirement village contracts are complex legal documents that can be hard to comprehend for someone without professional training. So, it’s important to understand your rights, responsibilities and obligations under the contract before you sign.

Village checklist

To make the process a little easier, we’ve created a checklist of factors for you to consider prior to signing a retirement village contract:

Have you fully discussed your decision to move to a retirement village with family, friends or advisors?

Have you looked at a sufficient number of villages to be able to compare the services and facilities?

Have you been informed of all applicable charges and what they cover?

What type of contractual arrangement is in place? For example, is the village under a Strata Title, long-term lease or licence, periodic tenancy, etc ?

Are there upfront costs?

Is healthcare provided?

How respectful are the staff of village residents’ privacy?

How secure and safe is the village?

Are pets and guests allowed?

Is residential aged care accommodation available?

Have you received a copy of the village rules?

How are disputes resolved within the village?

What happens if you wish to re-sell or re-lease the unit?

Don’t rush into making a commitment and seek expert advice and answers to all of your questions.

Before signing a retirement living contract, take all of the documents and any questions you may have about the village to a legal practitioner or financial advisor who understands the legal and financial implications of retirement village contracts.

Go to pages 171–175 for a list of retirement accommodation options.

What if I have an issue with a retirement village?

A copy of the dispute resolution policy should be included with your residence contract when you enter a retirement village. It is important to contact the village operator and request a copy if you have yet to receive these guidelines.

If you have any concerns, it is important to follow these guidelines and outline the nature of your dispute with the village operator in writing. A paper trail can also help you in case the dispute is not resolved internally.

In South Australia, the Office for Ageing Well’s Retirement Villages Unit (RVU) may be able to step in if you can’t resolve a dispute with the village operator. Although the RVU can offer advice and assistance, it can’t provide legal support.

You can contact the RVU to receive a Request for Assistance form that you can submit and send back by post or via email along with any other documents that may be required.

From there, a Retirement Villages Officer will reach out to you within 10 business days to mediate the dispute. If the parties reach an agreement to resolve the dispute or seem unlikely to reach an agreement, the RVU will notify you that the case will be closed.

In some cases, the RVU may refer you to other avenues of support, such as the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) for a legally binding determination.

If you don’t feel comfortable reaching out to the village operator or the RVU, you can request support from the Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS) to act on your behalf.

You can contact ARAS by calling (08) 8232 5377 and phone the RVU by dialling (08) 8204 2420.

For advocacy and support in the Northern Territory, please contact (08) 8941 1004 to speak with Council on the Ageing.

Getting assessed

WHAT.YOU.NEED TO KNOW

Getting assessed

The aged care assessment will help decide what level of support you require. Your assessor will best be able to help you if you provide lots of information about yourself and what day‑to‑day tasks you struggle with.

The assessment will be done by a social worker, nurse, doctor or other health professional and can take an hour or so.

If the My Aged Care contact centre believes that you are eligible for basic home support, you will be assessed by a professional from the Regional Assessment Service (RAS).

If you require higher care support, a member of an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit your property to assess you for a higher level of support at home to meet your needs or a place in a residential care home.

What should you prepare?

Some of the documents and information you should collect before your assessment include:

your Medicare card and a form of identification, for instance, your Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card, driver’s licence, passport or healthcare card;

any notes, contact details or referrals from your doctor;

any information about previous home, community or aged care services you have received;

any details about support you receive from family, friends or the community;

any questions you have about aged care; and

a translator/Auslan interpreter/support person if required.

During a face-to-face assessment, an ACAT assessor will visit you in your home to get to know you and your circumstances to determine the types of support you need.

The assessor will ask you a number of questions about any supports you receive, your current lifestyle, any health concerns or chronic illnesses, how you deal with tasks at home, if you are struggling with any cognitive issues or memory loss, whether you are struggling at home or have concerns about personal safety.

Getting assessed STEP 3

Getting assessed

Topics that might be covered or that you may want to bring up during your assessment include your:

medical history;

living arrangements;

support network;

existing forms of support and services;

cognitive and behavioural functions;

ability to perform daily tasks;

health and lifestyle concerns.

Be open and transparent about your wishes and what you believe will be of assistance around the home. They might also ask for your permission to talk with your doctor or specialist about the impact of any health conditions on your day-to-day life.

The assessment is also an opportunity for you to ask questions — if you don’t understand something, make sure you clarify with your assessor. You shouldn’t be leaving your assessment confused or stressed. Some of the questions you may want to ask are:

What are my rights and responsibilities during this assessment process?

What services are available in my area?

Are there support options available for my carer?

What financial assistance am I eligible to receive?

Are there culturally appropriate services in the area?

Who can I contact if I have any questions after the assessment?

If you don’t want to receive government-funded home care or go into government-funded aged care, that is perfectly fine. There are private providers who don’t require any assessment to receive care or enter their facilities. However, you can’t receive government funding to pay for your stay in a private nursing home.

How long does it take?

The ACAT assessment will take around an hour and, at the end of the meeting, the assessor will discuss the results of the assessment with you. They will review the information you have provided to determine what support option best suits you.

You will receive a letter within two weeks of your assessment to let you know if you have been found eligible for aged care services. This letter will also detail the types of services you will be able to access and any further information about how to access these supports.

If your situation is urgent, it may only take a couple of days before you get confirmation of approval for aged care.

You’ll be given a referral code linked to the type of service you are eligible to access. The service provider or aged care home of your choice will need this referral code to access your information with My Aged Care and manage the referral. They’ll also be able to access the funding allocated to you.

When you’re ready to start looking for providers to deliver the support services you have been found eligible for, you can use our online directory at AgedCareGuide.com.au for a comprehensive overview of the care options and care providers available near you.

Being approved for funded supports doesn’t always mean you will be able to access services straight away. You may need to wait until a suitable package or place in an aged care home becomes available, and wait times can range from a few weeks to a number of months.

What if I’m unhappy with my assessment results?

You have the final decision to accept or reject an ACAT recommendation. If you are unhappy with the recommendations, talk with the person in charge of the ACAT first because most concerns can be resolved this way.

If you can’t come to an agreement, you can appeal the decision and have the assessment reviewed.

To have the decision reviewed, you must write to the Secretary of the Australian Department of Health within 28 days of your assessment letter arriving. The request should be answered within 90 days with a decision.

To contact the The Secretary Department of Health and Aged Care by mail, include the following postal address and envelope header on your letter: The Secretary Department of Health and Aged Care Attn: Aged Care Assessment Program Reconsiderations GPO Box 9848 ADELAIDE SA 5001

If you do not agree with the secretary’s review, you can escalate the matter further by contacting the Administrative Review Tribunal. While asking for a review by the secretary is free, the Administrative Review Tribunal does incur a charge.

If you have questions about your case, please call 1800 228 333.

Getting assessed

Finding providers

WHAT.YOU.NEED TO KNOW

Finding providers

Once you have been assessed and approved for government‑funded aged care, either for services in your own home or a place in an aged care home, you can start the process of finding a provider that suits your needs.

Your letter from My Aged Care confirming you are ready to start accessing services will include a referral code linked to the type of service you are eligible to access. If you need the support of multiple services, you will be given multiple referral codes — one for each service.

The service provider or aged care home of your choice will need this referral code to access your information with My Aged Care and manage the referral. They’ll also be able to access the funding allocated to you.

Choosing which provider to trust with providing support is an important and personal decision — one that you want to think carefully about and shouldn’t rush.

You may want to start by writing down what you are looking for in a provider and what is important to you. Are low fees important to you or would you like a provider who can support your cultural needs? If accessing home care, do you want the same support worker to assist you each time and do you want to receive support on specific days or are you more flexible with time?

It’s a good idea to discuss your wishes and options with your family and support network, as they may be able to help you research, provide independent opinions on providers or share personal experiences.

It’s useful to create a shortlist of providers in your local area, which may help narrow down your search.

When considering a potential provider, take your time to do some research:

Look at the provider’s website, social media pages and online reviews

Check out their credentials, such as quality certifications and industry awards

Do they have any past or present sanctions or notices of non-compliance?

You can ask them directly or check the government’s non-compliance finder tool at myagedcare.gov.au/ non-compliance-checker

You can use this guide or the AgedCareGuide.com.au directory online to search for service providers in your area that meet your requirements

STEP 4

Finding providers

Choosing a provider

If you aren’t comfortable finding or choosing a provider by yourself, there are experts who can help you find a nursing home that suits your needs and preferences. A placement consultant has knowledge of local aged care facilities and can make the process of entering aged care smoother. Find a placement consultant on AgedCareGuide.com.au or call 1300 606 781 to access placement services.

Once you have chosen a provider, you will need to contact them to start the home care services you need or to be placed on their waiting list for a bed vacancy. During this conversation, it is also essential to discuss fees and services with your new provider, so you know how much the support or aged care bed is going to cost.

Choosing a provider

When looking into home care services, here are some things to investigate and ask the provider you are considering:

Do they service your area?

Is the company Australian-owned?

Is it independent or part of a franchise?

Do the owners/operators have experience in home care?

Does the company have appropriate insurance?

Does the company comply with Australian Tax Law? For example, does it charge GST appropriately?

Do they provide documents about financial arrangements before service begins?

Do they have a Service Agreement? It is important that there’s no misunderstanding about the service and cost to be provided.

Are they flexible? After all, it is all about you.

What are their recruitment processes?

Is there a criminal background check performed prior to employment with an agency?

Does the company provide worker’s compensation for employees? This is important so that you are not responsible for any injuries that occur on the job.

How do they determine appropriate staff for your needs? If a company asks where you live and then offers you staff before even hearing about your needs, you can be reasonably assured they allocate based on location as a priority.

Is it possible to interview potential carers and make a selection after those interviews?

Do you get to decide what times and days suit your needs?

What is the minimum shift length?

Do they have male/female workers and can they cater for specific cultural backgrounds?

Who will be working in the home? Will there be regular staff providing continuity of care or do they change shifts around?

Is there a professional staff member, such as a registered nurse, who liaises with you to create a plan that meets your needs? Who is the organisation’s main contact for you?

Do you meet a manager/owner and then never hear from them again? What additional support is offered within the cost of your care? For example, are they available 24 hours a day, seven days a week?

You’ll find a list of in-home care service providers from page page 118 (SA) and page 159 (NT) in this guide or you can visit AgedCareGuide.com.au to find providers servicing your location.

A placement consultant makes your job easier

Needing to place a loved one into an aged care home can be a highly stressful event for families and carers.

You might think it’s a lack of information or understanding but, in fact, it’s because you are both the carer and the person emotionally involved.

This process can be eased significantly with the help of an aged care placement consultant who can take control of the running around, paperwork and planning.

Moving into residential care is a situation most people postpone for as long as possible until the point of necessity, often leaving little time to organise everything.

If some initial planning were to be undertaken, it could soothe the transition and reduce the stress at what is a critical turning point in people’s lives.

Planning should include obtaining information on the financial implications of entering residential care, gaining information on the facilities available in your area and ensuring wills, powers of attorney and guardianship are up to date.

A placement consultant can take over a lot of the stress of searching for and transitioning into an aged care home.

These professionals can also assist you in finding a bed placement more promptly because of their connections with aged care providers and services.

Placement consultants

How a placement consultant can help

Every single transition to aged care is unique and a placement consultant will take several things into consideration to make sure the advice is right for your circumstances. You may be asked some of the following questions:

Are you looking for care options for a single person, or a couple?

Is there a physical condition that is progressing or are you struggling to take care of yourself?

Is there acceptance or understanding of this part of the journey?

What are the family dynamics around the placement decision and the impact on everyone involved?

An aged care placement consultant can often find a home faster and one that is specifically suited to your requirements through their established relationships with facilities.

By knowing the culture of each facility and getting to know you, placement consultants can determine which homes would best suit your needs and preferences to make an application.

Without the assistance of an aged care placement consultant, you or your carer would need to constantly phone the facilities of your choice to demonstrate your eagerness and commitment to obtaining a bed in that home.

Negotiate and advocate for you

The aged care placement consultant advocates for you and your family and is able to assist with the whole assessment process.

They also complete all the necessary paperwork and application forms for entry into an aged care home, which is helpful, as the applications can be quite daunting. They may suggest seeking financial advice where required.

An aged care placement consultant helps share the load at this crucial time and can significantly speed up the time it usually takes to find a placement at a suitable home, thereby easing the transition into residential care.

Be sure about your expectations of service and what the placement consultant is able to provide, including:

face-to-face family meetings to discuss your situation and a respect for the emotions of all the family members involved;

support and recommendations that cater for the specific requirements of your family and loved one;

counsel that prioritises family sensitivities, needs and special requests before asking how much money is available and getting the status of the financial situation;

practical assistance with urgent placement situations — which they often are — where reducing the typical waiting times or arranging respite care is a necessity.

Choosing a placement consultant

Within South Australia and the Northern Territory, there is a range of qualified placement consultants who can help you in your search for aged care options.

When you’re choosing a placement consultant to support you through the aged care transition, look for someone who is an expert in building and nurturing relationships, who is unbiased, independent and has no business investment or alignment with any aged care facility.

An independent professional is able to provide guidance based entirely on your individual circumstances, not biased by commission or kickbacks from any particular facility or provider.

Choose an advocate who will ease your support, supporting your family with all aspects of this transition and allow you to focus on your loved one.

Placement consultants are happy for you to call them for a chat and understand you may talk to a number of them before making your choice.

You can be open in your discussions because, as health professionals, they have a policy of confidentiality.

Some placement consultants charge by the hour, whilst others offer a package of services for one fixed price. Ensure that you are advised of all the possible fees and costs up front.

Placement consultants

Care planning

Case management

The case management process uses a comprehensive approach to identify and implement health and social care services to optimise your health, quality of life and active participation in the community.

Case managers work in partnership with you, your carer and family, as well as other service providers to develop and implement individualised care plans and strategies best suited to your needs and goals.

Every approved Home Care Package provider must provide case/care management services to ensure safe and high-quality service delivery.

If you intend to self-manage your HCP, your provider will still have to review your Home Care Agreement, care plan and services. This means that an approved provider may still have to coordinate police checks on third-party service providers, assess budgeting and meet the Aged Care Quality and Safety Standards.

Additionally, as this may require time and staff, the approved provider will charge a care management fee — capped at 20 percent of the HCP level — outlined in the Home Care Agreement.

How much does it cost?

Although case/care management is currently capped at 20 percent of the Home Care Package level, such as $5.85 of the daily HCP Level 1 subsidy ($29.28) or $22.41 of the daily HCP Level 3 subsidy ($112.07), these are not the target prices for care management services.

Care management can only be charged fortnightly or monthly and must be included in your monthly statement.

Care planning

The aim of care planning is to provide appropriate and coordinated care that you have control over. Care plans are person-centred and prioritise the needs identified in the comprehensive assessment.

A care plan will also factor in the support you receive from friends, family and the community. You must receive a care plan before or within 14 days of your services starting.

Your care plan will be reviewed annually or when your needs change by your home care provider. If your needs have changed, your budget and care plan must be updated to reflect changes and costs.

Services may include the purchase or hire of equipment or installation of assistive aids, such as bathroom rails, and negotiating with support agencies for delivery of services.

Managing services

STEP 5

WHAT.YOU.NEED TO KNOW Managing services

Throughout your aged care journey, there may come a time where you need to make changes to the services you are receiving.

This may be because you’re going on a holiday or need to go into hospital and don’t need any services to be delivered while you’re away. Perhaps your needs have changed and your current supports no longer suit you. Alternatively, you might like to change providers because you’re moving to a different area or not entirely happy with your current provider.

The process of making changes to your current services depends on the type of support you are receiving. However, the first step should be to talk with your current provider.

Service providers have an ongoing responsibility to make sure you receive quality care and to respect your rights and preferences. They should monitor the services they provide under your care plan to ensure your needs and goals are being met. If there are significant changes in your care needs, they can help you through the process of reviewing your supports. Reviewing your needs and supports may mean that you need to have another aged care assessment. For example, if you were originally assessed as having low-level care needs, but your mobility has decreased over time and you would like to access higher level supports.

You can request a reassessment by your local ACAT to determine if you’re eligible for higher-level care. You must be reassessed to move on from CHSP supports and between different levels of Home Care Packages.

Depending on the services you’re already receiving, you may need to consider other options, such as:

Reviewing your care plan to identify alternative support options and priorities, for example, replacing informal supports with formal supports or considering additional support services, such as support on weekends

Purchasing additional private services

Utilising residential care, either as short-term respite to complement your package or as a long-term option

If your current provider cannot offer the services or changes you want, you can switch to a different provider that can meet your needs.

When choosing a new provider:

Take the time to research them to make sure they can meet your needs

Contact My Aged Care to get a new referral code to give to your new provider and agree on a date to switch your services

Notify your current provider, in writing, to let them know you will be terminating your services with them and from what date

Self‑managing your HCP

You know the most about what you need. After making decisions for yourself throughout your adult life, it makes sense that you would want to maintain that control by self‑managing your Home Care Package (HCP).

You may decide to organise and manage the coordination of your own supports in your package rather than utilise a case manager who would commonly deal with your package on your behalf and direct the care and support you receive.

As a consumer, you have every right to exercise that freedom to self-manage your package.

Some people who self-manage their own package find they have more choice and control over their HCP than before.

Additionally, people who self-manage their care can cut down on the administrative costs and case management fees that they would normally have to pay. This means more of your package funding can go towards the care and services you require.

When you self-manage your HCP, you get to choose an approved provider, pick and manage your support workers, decide when you want to receive these services and negotiate how much you pay for the provided services.

Working in partnership

Choosing to self-manage your own package doesn’t mean you are doing this all by yourself either. The provider you choose will assist you in receiving the correct care and services.

Your provider has an obligation to provide you with all the information you need to successfully self-manage your HCP and support you through the self-managing process.

You will work in partnership with your provider to decide how involved you want to be when it comes to managing your care.

This means you can set boundaries and expectations with your provider on what they should be covering and what tasks you will be organising.

When considering self-management of your package, you need to consider whether you have the time and energy to undertake this role.

For instance, if you have been diagnosed with dementia, it may not be the best option for you. However, you can ask your partner or loved one to self-manage your package on your behalf.

It is important to keep in mind that some providers may have policies around self-management, so you should definitely shop around and enquire with providers about how they support clients who wish to self-manage their package.

Resident Agreement

The Resident Agreement is a legal agreement between you and your aged care home.

Before you move in, an aged care home will offer you a Resident Agreement to sign that may cover things like the services you will receive, the fees to be paid and the rights and responsibilities you have as a resident of the home.

Your Resident Agreement should include the following: the policies and practices used to set your fees and charges; the level of daily fee you’ll be asked to pay; any extra services you’ve agreed to receive, and their costs; any circumstances where you might be asked to leave and how the aged care home will help you find somewhere more appropriate; your rights and responsibilities as a resident in your new aged care home; your aged care home’s responsibilities to you as a resident; and how the aged care home will deal with any complaints you, your carer, friends or family may make.

Signing the agreement

If you choose to enter into a Resident Agreement, you don’t have to sign it at the time it is offered. You may want to take time to ask your friends, family, carer, financial advisor or legal practitioner for help to go through the agreement, although you don’t have to.

While there is no time limit for signing the Resident Agreement, it is in your best interest to finalise the Resident Agreement as soon as you can, as it covers your rights and responsibilities.

Since the Resident Agreement is a legally binding document, it’s important you understand everything in the document before you sign it.

If you have any questions, you should ask your new aged care home. It’s their responsibility to make sure the agreement offered to you is clear.

You can also ask your family, friends, carer or a legal practitioner to help you understand the terms of your agreement.

If you understand your agreement and want to sign it, but are physically unable to, you can ask someone with the legal authority to sign on your behalf, such as someone who holds power of attorney for you.

Can I withdraw from the Resident Agreement?

Should you change your mind, you can withdraw from the Resident Agreement within 14 days of signing.

You will need to let your aged care home know, in writing, straight away. You will still need to pay your care fees and charges for care you’ve received during the 14 days.

Changes can only be made to the agreement if both you and your aged care home agree.

24‑hour care in your own home

Supported living communities combine the best aspects of retirement villages and nursing homes to provide a new and welcome choice for seniors.

In a supported residential facility, you buy and have a leasehold title to your own home, as in many retirement villages.

However, unlike a retirement village, you’ll have access to various levels of personal care and nursing care, but this is provided in the privacy of your own home — a choice not available in nursing homes.

Care Communities

Some supported living communities promote themselves as ‘Care Communities.’ These are unique villages with the look and feel of a retirement village and the care of a nursing home.

Run by approved providers, you can access government funding for home care services offered in the comfort of your own self-contained home in the village or purchase private home care services through the provider.

No asset‑testing or ACAT assessments

Acquiring one of these homes, which is not government funded, is surprisingly easy. There is no need for asset- or income-testing and also no need for an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) that nursing homes require.

If you already receive home support benefits before moving to a supported residential facility, you can stay with your current provider.

Staff at supported living communities

Carers are always available to help out with daily housekeeping chores such as cleaning, vacuuming, clothes washing and ironing.

Registered nurses can prepare suitable care plans individually tailored to your health care requirements, including regular health checks, medication management, wound and skin care, palliative in-home care, illness prevention, pharmaceutical support and medication reminders.

Maintain your social life

While some residential aged care homes don’t cater for couples, supported living communities can offer the capacity for couples to stay together in their own home, even if they require different levels of care.

The community centres offer many comfortable facilities, including lounge areas, libraries, television, games and activities rooms and tea and coffee facilities.

Choosing a supported living community

There are various factors which may determine your transition to a particular supported living community.

It’s important to remember, the facility you will be happiest at will not necessarily be the most expensive. The right community for you is the community where you feel ‘most at home.’

Extra services

Some aged care homes provide ‘extra services,’ such as a higher standard of accommodation, increased entertainment options and more diverse food choices.

Extra service homes have approval from the Australian Government to offer these additional ‘hotel-type’ services and they come at an additional cost to the resident.

‘Extra service’ only refers to the standard of accommodation, meals, food and entertainment, not to the level of care which is legislated to be of a high standard across all aged care homes.

Services delivered and cost may vary between providers and they should be outlined in your Resident Agreement.

In some cases, the home is entirely ‘extra service,’ while, in others, a distinct part of that home, such as a separate building, wing or unit, is dedicated to extra services.

Some of the extra services you might be offered include:

A bigger room Internet

Daily newspaper Satellite-TV

A phone

A choice of meals

A selection of beverages including wines, beer and spirits

Special therapies, such as massage or aromatherapy

Leisure/entertainment facilities

Fees

Extra service fees are set by the provider and approved by the Australian Government. This is an additional charge on top of the basic daily care fee, accommodation payment and any means-tested fee.

Some providers may offer rooms with a non-optional extra service package. You can only take up the room if you agree to and pay for the extra services offered.

Other providers may offer extra services as an optional package that you can choose or cancel at any time.

In this case, switching from general residency to extra service residence within the same home does not change the accommodation payment you have already agreed to when entering the home and the provider can’t charge a new or additional accommodation payment.

Additional services

All people in aged care homes have the option to purchase additional services, such as entertainment or lifestyle choices, for an extra fee. Providers can not charge additional service fees for anything that is part of the normal operation of the nursing home and you have to agree to these charges before they are being delivered.

Aged care homes that offer extra services are listed in the residential table starting on page 153.

Meeting the needs of all cultures

For many older Australians, leaving their home to move into residential care is a lifestyle change that can lead to an emotionally challenging experience.

This transition can become more challenging for older people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds requiring access to residential and community aged care services that are sensitive to meeting their specific cultural, spiritual, dietary and linguistic needs.

With an increasing ageing and migration population, it is essential that Australian aged care services and communities have the capacity to respond to the unique needs of people from CALD backgrounds.

Meeting the needs of the nation’s older people from CALD backgrounds has been a growing focus of the Australian Government.

Providing suitable cultural care has been associated with huge health and wellbeing benefits for this growing group of older Australians, which has led to the government’s introduction of a number of initiatives.

Cluster facilities

Facilities with clusters for CALD older people generally consist of three or more residents from a similar background and staff who speak their language.

Polish Community and Home Care

The Polish Federation in association with generous support of the Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home Care Packages, can assist you or an elder relative stay in the home, by providing:

• European Styled Meals

• Polish Social Support Group

• Polish Social Support Individual

• Access to Polish Seniors Clubs

• Flexible Respite

• Transport Services operated by Polish speaking Volunteers

W ramach Federacji oferujemy programy przygotowane z myślą o osobach polskiego pochodzenia:

• Polskie posiłki i obiady

• Programy Groupowe dla Seniorów

• Indywidualna Pomoc dla Seniorów

• Dostęp do Klubów Seniorów

• Usługi transportowe

• Program opieki wspomagający opiekunów

Federacja Organizacji Polskich w Poludniowej Australii

Cultural services

Cluster facilities also make an extra effort to focus on meeting the cultural, spiritual, dietary and social needs of CALD residents.

The aim of clustering is to:

Enhance the quality of care provided to residents from CALD backgrounds in residential aged care facilities

Promote and facilitate access to residential aged care facilities for people from CALD backgrounds

Enable residents to observe religious, spiritual, cultural and personally significant events

Improve communication between staff and residents

Maintain dietary customs according to the CALD backgrounds of residents’ religious and cultural preferences

Provide social and activity programs that appropriately cater for the needs and interests of CALD residents

There are also culturally specific aged care facilities that have formally entered into a contract with the Australian Government to, wherever possible, meet the needs of a specific cultural group.

Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care

Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care (PICAC) is a national initiative, funded by the Australian Government, designed to improve aged care service delivery for older people from CALD communities.

The PICAC initiative has resulted in:

More aged care service providers delivering culturally appropriate care to older CALD people

Better access for older CALD people to culturally appropriate residential and community care services

Older CALD people having a greater capacity to make informed decisions about residential and community based aged care

To find out more about PICAC across South Australia, contact Multicultural Aged Care by calling (08) 8241 9900.

Breaking language barriers

Healthcare professionals in general practice treat patients from a diverse range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

A significant proportion of the Australian population speak a primary language other than English and patients with limited English proficiency may be less likely to adhere to medication regimes and follow-up plans. They may also have a decreased understanding of their diagnosis and, overall, less satisfaction with their care. Access to high-quality medical interpreter services may improve the quality of care for these patients.

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the government. The service covers more than 100 languages and is available 24/7 on 1800 131 450.

See pages 154–156 & 169–170 for a list of aged care homes and Home Care Package providers in SA & the NT who can meet the needs of people from a range of cultures.

Special needs groups

There’s a number of groups of people that the government recognises as ‘special needs’ groups when it comes to aged care services.

Aged care providers are required to consider the needs of these groups in the provision of care:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) — The care needs of older ATSI people can be quite specific and there is a cultural element that needs to be considered in the delivery of care. See pages 154–156 & 169–170 for an overview of service providers who’ve indicated they cater to ATSI clients.

Care leavers — A care leaver is a person who, as a child or youth, spent time in institutional care or other types of out of home care like orphanages, children’s homes or foster care.

Because of their experiences in institutionalised care, aged care has been flagged as an area that can cause distress and anxiety.

Culturally and Linguistically Diverse people (CALD) — Aged care services that cater specifically for people who are culturally and linguistically diverse might have staff that speak a foreign language, have specific cultural activities or meet spiritual needs.

The ‘National Ageing and Aged Care Strategy for People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Backgrounds’ helps providers deliver quality care and aims to make culturally appropriate aged care more accessible. See pages 154–156 & 169–170 for a list of culturally appropriate homes and services.

Disability — If you have a disability, are over 65 years of age and currently receive support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), visit ndis.gov.au or phone 1800 800 110 to find out what services are available to you.

Financially disadvantaged — If you have genuine difficulty paying aged care fees and charges, financial hardship provisions may apply. These allow for your fees and charges to be reduced or waived.

Without shelter — If you are experiencing homelessness or if you’re at risk of becoming homeless, there are government-funded services that can help solve your housing problems, or assist with financial or legal issues.

LGBTIQ — Through the National LGBTI Ageing and Aged Care Strategy, the government aims to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning (LGBTIQ) people have access to the same options in aged care that are available to all Australians. Rural & regional clients — Services offered in rural and regional areas will depend on the needs of the whole community and sometimes aged care, health and community services are combined to meet local health needs.

Veterans — Veterans have a ‘special-needs’ status to support complex medical requirements, including high levels of emotional and cultural support in old age as a result of a veterans’ wartime experience.

Contact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs on 1800 838 372.

Special needs groups

Volunteer Visitors Scheme

Older Australians experience high rates of loneliness and social isolation, but there are different initiatives to improve social connection and encourage interaction in the community.

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) is a program that targets loneliness and isolation in older Australians. This initiative, from the Department of Health, uses volunteer visitors to meet with people on a regular basis to provide friendship and social inclusion.

As Australia’s population ages and people are living longer, the ACVVS is becoming incredibly important for social interaction and life changing engagement.

The ACVVS improves quality of life to all involved with the program and has been proven to combat loneliness and isolation occurring in residential aged care or at home.

Older people who would benefit from the ACVVS include people who have little contact with family or friends, are isolated from their own culture or heritage, have issues with their mobility that prevent them from participating in social activities or other personal issues that might make it difficult to engage socially.

What service is provided?

The ACVVS tries to connect like-minded individuals and recipients with similar hobbies, interests and likes to facilitate a good friendship.

There’s a number of different types of volunteer visits under the ACVVS:

A residential volunteer visits a participant for a one-on-one visit at a residential aged care facility.

Group residential volunteers visit a small group of residents at a residential aged care facility who have similar interests, like gardening or knitting.

A home care volunteer visits an ACVVS recipient with an approved Home Care Package at their home.

Volunteers are not visiting to monitor your standards of care from your aged care service provider, be involved in any of your financial affairs, access your personal or care record information, provide any form of nursing or personal care or follow up a complaint about your care.

Think of your volunteer visitor as a dear friend that has come over for a cup of coffee and a chat.

To be eligible for the ACVVS, you have to be an older Australian who is at risk of/experiences loneliness, isolation or cultural loneliness. However, you have to be receiving government-subsidised residential aged care or a Home Care Package to be eligible for visits.

For further information about the program in South Australia, contact the ACVVS on (08) 8326 0020 or visit health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-volunteer-visitors-scheme-acvvs.

Supporting the rights of older people

Most of the time, aged care services work well and the people who use them are happy with the service they receive.

However, sometimes a problem may arise and you may need help to speak up and have the problem resolved.

Many people feel uncomfortable raising a complaint or concern, but it is important to address your concerns early and not leave them to escalate.

This can be particularly difficult if your complaint is about the care or services that you are dependent upon for meeting your most basic needs. Nevertheless, we live in a society where each and every one of us, regardless of our age, has rights as citizens and individuals.

Advocacy

If you feel unsure or unable to address your concerns with the service provider, you can ask an advocacy service to help you.

An aged care advocate can assist you to exercise choice and control over your care services and work with you and your family on the best way to address your concerns with a provider.

Their services are usually free and they can give you information, advise and support you to express your concerns or even speak on your behalf. They will aim to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

An advocate can:

help you understand your rights and responsibilities;

listen to your concerns and discuss your options;

support you and give you confidence in addressing a concern; and

raise a concern with the service provider or speak on your behalf. Advice is generally provided on consumer rights, human rights, aged care rights and responsibilities, financial exploitation, substitute decision-making and elder abuse prevention and response.

Advocates can assist with negotiating changes to your care plan, ensuring the needs of people from culturally diverse backgrounds are met. They also deliver specialist community education, such as self-advocacy and how to meet the needs of people with dementia and special needs. There are free and independent advocacy services in every state and territory that provide telephone advice, community education and other assistance for older people.

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) is a national network of nine state and territory organisations that have been successfully delivering advocacy, information and education services to older people in metropolitan, regional, rural and remote Australia for over 25 years.

The Australian Government funds OPAN to deliver the National Aged Care Advocacy Program across the country. Call 1800 700 600 to speak with an aged care advocate in SA and the NT or visit opan.com.au .

Carer support

Elder abuse

There are heartbreaking stories of older people being mistreated by the people they trust and who are closest to them.

In one instance, an 85-year-old gentleman appointed a distant relative as his power of attorney and he was neglected, unable to return to his own home, as large sums of money were taken from his bank account without permission.

Another tragic story involved a woman who became depressed and fearful, because her son, who lived with addiction, abused her verbally and psychologically, stole from her and left her isolated.

Elder abuse is defined as ‘any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, such as a family member or friend.’

The abuse may be physical, social, financial, psychological, sexual or negligent.

A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that the number of people experiencing elder abuse could be as high as one in ten.

As our population ages, the number of people affected by elder abuse is also expected to rise.

If you need information or advice about elder abuse, contact the national ELDERHelp line on 1800 353 374.

Carer support

There are over 2.65 million unpaid carers across Australia. Caring for someone can be fulfilling, but balancing work, care and personal time can be challenging for some.

With more older Australians looking to stay at home longer, more family and friends of older people are finding themselves in a carer role than ever before.

There are some great support options available to assist you with practical or emotional support and you may be eligible for financial support from the Australian Government.

Support groups and counselling services

Community-run carer support groups can offer a safe and understanding environment to talk about your caring role. These groups may be organised around caring for someone with a particular need (such as Parkinson’s or dementia).

Support groups are an opportunity for you to connect with other carers who are or have experienced situations similar to yours, sharing anecdotes and advice.

Carer support groups are completely confidential and can also help you to: discover new information; get along to education or training workshops; participate and get involved in activities.

Support lines

Several support lines and websites are available to assist carers, just like you, in looking after older people.

Some helpful support services include:

Carer Gateway — 1800 422 737 — helps you find local support services; gives advice on a range of topics, such as health and wellbeing, financial and legal consideration; can connect you with other carers

National Dementia Helpline — 1800 100 500 — provides information and support about dementia; can connect you to support services in your area, as well as provide emotional support to help manage the impact of dementia

Carers Australia — (02) 6122 9900 — runs support programs, including short-term counselling for carers with qualified counsellors

Relationships Australia — 1300 364 277 — offers a range of services, such as counselling and mediation, by phone, online and face-to-face

Lifeline — 13 11 14 — offers 24/7 crisis support and phone counselling

For more information about services available to help you in South Australia and the Northern Territory, please refer to the ‘Useful phone numbers and websites’ directory on page 5.

Additionally, if you need to locate the relevant section that you may need support with, please visit the Index on page 180.

DPS Publishing strives to regularly update our content and bring you news, information and support resources on our website — AgedCareGuide.com.au .

Carer support

Dementia support

Memory change — is it dementia?

Are you concerned that you or someone you love is experiencing memory loss?

Changes like these can have a number of possible causes, including stress, depression, pain, chronic illness or medications.

See your doctor if you or someone close to you are experiencing these kinds of difficulties. Receiving a diagnosis is important because the underlying cause may be treatable.

However, major changes in memory are not normal at any age and should be taken seriously.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a general term to describe problems that involve progressive changes in memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform regular daily activities.

There’s over 100 different types of dementia, but the most common types are:

Alzheimer’s — which attacks the brain resulting in impaired memory, thinking and behaviour

Vascular dementia — caused by poor blood flow to the brain, depriving brain cells of nutrients and oxygen needed to function normally

Parkinson’s disease dementia — a chronic, progressive neurological condition, which in later stages can affect cognitive functioning

Frontotemporal dementia — a disorder causing damage to brain cells in the frontal and temporal lobes, resulting in decline in social skills and emotional apathy. Behaviour and personality changes often occur before memory loss and speech problems

The early signs of dementia may include memory loss, situational confusion, mood and personality changes or difficulty performing familiar tasks.

Dementia can happen to anybody but is much more common after the age of 65. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing.

Dementia and aged care

For people with dementia, their memory loss affects their adjustment to new places and persons. The move to residential care should be considered before a crisis forces a more urgent response. Good care depends on how well the care facility responds to the residents’ individual needs, including their physical, social and mental wellbeing.

Where can I get help?

Support is vital for the person with dementia, as well as family members. Although the effects of dementia cannot yet be stopped or reversed, an early diagnosis gives families a chance to access services and plan for the future.

There’s a number of organisations that offer support, information, education and counselling to people affected by dementia. The National Dementia Helpline offers advice and counselling on 1800 100 500 or dementia.org.au. Read on for information about how the Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) can help.

Changed behaviours

Behavioural change can occur for people with dementia, with many people experiencing changes to mood, thought, language, daily function or movement. The individual’s response to a particular circumstance or situation may alter or reduce as the dementia progresses.

Changed behaviour as a response to a person’s dementia may reduce quality of life for the person living with dementia and can contribute to carer or care worker stress. It is important to take steps to support the person living with dementia and the people who provide care to them.

Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) can help explain the causes for changed behaviours and identify strategies to assist the person living with dementia and their carers.

Changed behaviours may include:

Anxiety

Depressed mood

Hallucinations

Restlessness

Aggression

Sleep disturbance

Inappropriate toileting

Specialised support

Eating difficulties

Repeated calling out

Repetitive questioning

Wandering

Hoarding

Resistive to care

Unwanted sexualised behaviour

Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Services (DBMAS) is a free, nationwide service, funded by the Australian Government, supporting family, health and aged care professionals to better understand and respond to individual changes in behaviour and emotions.

The service can help explain the causes for changed behaviours and identify strategies to assist the person living with dementia and their carers. It offers specialised support, assessment, intervention and advice to assist carers and care workers of people with dementia where behaviours may impact on their care.

DBMAS has a multi-disciplinary team of experienced health care professionals such as registered nurses, social workers, clinical psychologists, geriatricians, speech pathologists and dietitians.

DBMAS is committed to providing culturally sensitive and effective communication. If you require an interpreter service, you can call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50 and ask them to contact the DBMAS service.

For more information, contact DBMAS on 1800 699 799 or visit dementia.com.au .

Dementia support

End‑of‑life care

Whether you live in your own home or in a residential aged care home, when the end of life approaches, you may require additional support.

The primary goal of palliative care is to provide supportive care and improve the patient’s quality of life by addressing any painful or distressing symptoms.

Palliative care is divided into three subgroups:

1. Primary care — for people who only require services from their primary health care professional(s).

2. Intermediate care — advice is provided by specialist palliative care services but care is still given by health care professional(s).

3. Complex care — this group requires care from specialist practitioners. Patients are commonly referred to specialist palliative care services where they will receive the required care.

There’s a number of different services that can offer extra support both at home or in a nursing home setting.

Located at Happy Valley, Bethsalem Care has an enviable reputation throughout Adelaide for high quality, individually focussed care. We are fully accredited with accommodation for 90 residents in spacious single rooms all with their own ensuite. Each of the four resident areas have a dining room and comfortable adjacent lounge area opening out into the enclosed courtyards and beautiful gardens. There is a secure and well staffed dementia specific area, adjoining rooms for couples (when available) and an abundance of natural light.

A centrally located café provides the focus for social interaction between staff, residents and families and provides a relaxing location to enjoy a coffee or meal with your loved one in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Bethsalem means ‘A House of Peace’ and this is evident from the moment you walk from the award winning gardens into the welcoming foyer and throughout the home where our caring staff are committed to providing the highest quality personalised care in a secure and homely environment.

As a place ‘where life matters’, Bethsalem Care takes the time to identify the individual choices of each resident and provides care specifically tailored to meet your needs. This gives families and friends confidence and peace of mind that their loved ones are being cared for

with compassion whilst encouraging residents to take part in independent and meaningful social activity.

www.bethsalemcare.com.au

Bethsalem Care

End‑of‑life care

Services to help at home

Services that may help you to stay in the comfort of your own home can include:

a qualified nurse to dress a wound or provide continence advice; household jobs, like cleaning, clothes washing and ironing; help with bathing or showering, dressing, hair care and going to the toilet; meals and other food services — assistance with preparing and eating meals, or help for those with special diets; and helping to travel to shopping centres or appointments.

Palliative care in a nursing home

For palliative care in a residential aged care setting, the government has developed a series of guidelines, which provides support and guidance to residential aged care facilities in providing palliative care.

The Guidelines for a Palliative Approach in Residential Aged Care outline three forms of palliative care in residential aged care, which include:

A palliative approach — aims to improve the quality of life for residents with a life-limiting illness. This can be done by reducing their suffering through early identification, assessment and treatment of pain, along with handling their physical, cultural, psychological, social and spiritual needs.

Specialised palliative service provision — involves referral to a specialised palliative team or health care practitioner.

End-of-life (terminal) care — this form of palliative care is appropriate when the resident is in the final days or weeks of life and care decisions may need to be reviewed more frequently.

Family and friends

Providing end-of-life care can be particularly intense for family and friend carers.

While managing their own grief and the grief of others, carers will be providing high-level physical and emotional support that a patient needs at the end of life. Palliative care not only supports patients, but also their friends and families.

For more information about palliative care services, talk to your GP or contact your community health centre.

Definition of terms

24-hour On-site Supervision — A person(s) who is/are employed to work in an aged care home and will respond to requests for assistance when regular staff are off duty.

Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) — Assess and approve older people for Australian Government-subsidised aged care services. Aged Care on Site — The retirement village has an aged care facility at the same location.

ATSI — Services offered to older Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people and their carers.

Booked Respite Beds — Dedicated beds that carers can book in advance.

CALD — Services offered to culturally and linguistically diverse older aged people and their carers.

Care Community (CC) — Private self-contained accommodation run by approved providers where you can access 24/7 care through government-funded Home Care Packages or privately funded supports, as a genuine alternative to a nursing home.

Care Plan — Developed by the service providing your care; outlines care needs and instructions on how these needs will be met.

Carer Gateway — This online resource and helpline provides support by linking carers to information, counselling, respite and other services.

Centre-based Care (CBC) — Services, respite and activities for social and recreational independence in a ‘centre setting’ for aged/frail clients and their carers.

CHSP Funded — An in-home or centre-based care service funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Programme government initiative.

Communal Facilities — Shared facilities for residents such as a community hall, swimming pool or bowling green.

Consumer-directed Care (CDC) — Allows you to control the types of care you access, how it is delivered and who provides that care. All Home Care Packages are delivered on a CDC basis.

Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) — This is a daily payment to a government-funded aged care facility, paid periodically, for example, monthly. This is not a refundable payment.

Day Therapy Centre (DTC) — Allied health/therapy services to develop or maintain physical and psychological independence in a ‘centre setting,’ provided to aged/frail clients and their carers. Includes clients with dementia and disability.

Dementia Services — Services offered to clients with dementia and/or challenging behaviours, as well as their carers.

Domestic Assistance — Help with washing clothes, cleaning the property and minor meal preparation.

Donor Funded — The purchase price or entry contribution of a dwelling by a resident in a retirement village, may be subsidised by a not-for-profit organisation.

Extra Services Beds/Places — Places at an aged care facility for which residents receive a higher standard of accommodation, food and services for an additional charge.

Home Maintenance/Gardening — Help with replacing tap washers and light globes, minor weeding and sweeping outdoors, minor carpentry repairs and gutter cleaning.

Independent Living Unit (ILU) — Sometimes referred to as a ‘villa’ or ‘apartment’ and located in a retirement village.

LGBTIQ — Some aged care services offer specific care to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning residents.

Meals &/or Shopping — Delivery of fresh and frozen meals or transport for food shopping (CBC — meals or light refreshments provided at the centres).

Medication Supervision — Service provider attends the client’s home daily to assist in dispensing medication.

Multi-purpose Service (MPS) — Located in centre settings and some residential aged care facilities. They deliver a mix of aged care, health and community services.

NESB — Services offered to non-English speaking background older aged people and their carers.

Nursing &/or Palliative Care — Registered or enrolled nurses visiting the home to dispense medication, wound management, convalescent care, pain management and palliative care.

Personal Care — Assistance with personal hygiene, washing, showering, bathing, dressing, feeding and toileting; CBC clients receive care at the centre.

Pharmaceutical Deliveries — The delivery of medications by a service provider directly to the client or older person's home.

RAD/DAP Combination — This includes both partial lump sum and daily payments for aged care accommodation.

Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) — This is paid as a lump sum when entering a government-funded aged care facility and refunded, minus agreed deductions, when leaving the facility.

Regional Assessment Service (RAS) — In-home assessments of new and existing clients/carers for CHSP services.

Rental Accommodation (RA) — Villas, units or ILUs available for rent in a retirement village.

Resident Funded/Licence to Occupy/Purchase — Residents purchase a loan/licence agreement for a dwelling in aged care home or purchase on a freehold basis.

Respite Care — Services provided so a client or their carer can take a break from their daily routine. Includes care in the client’s home, at a day centre or in an aged care facility.

Retirement Living (RL) — The site has retirement living accommodation.

Secure Dementia Unit — A secure, specialised ward, wing or unit for people with dementia and/or challenging behaviours.

Service Fee — A fee to cover the services offered by a retirement village, including maintenance, improvements, utilities and council rates, etc.

Serviced Apartment — Usually one or two bedrooms and provides residents with some domestic and ‘hotel-like’ services such as cleaning, laundry and personal care. Services may be provided on a fee for service basis.

Single Bedrooms With Ensuites — This facility offers (a number of) single bedrooms with attached bathroom. Might not be every room in the home.

Small Pets Welcome — The site has a policy for residents enabling them to have small pets but it's dependent on the type, size and care needs.

Social &/or Recreational Support — The client participates in social or recreational activities, either in their home or at a community, day or recreational centre.

Supported & Assisted Living (SL) — Supported & assisted living communities offer accommodation and care to residents on a fee-for-service basis without government funding.

Supported Residential Facility (SRF) — Privately run aged care facility that provides similar accommodation and care to that of a government-funded facility but without the funding support. Transport — Organising or providing transport services such as bus, taxi, private car, etc.

See De nition of

1300

SA in-home care services

See De nition of

on page 117

SA in-home care services

See De nition of

SA in-home care services

See De nition of

on page 117

Council (LGA) reference index

You can use this index to find the page number of your local government area, commonly referred to as a ‘council district’ or ‘LGA,’ for a comprehensive list of Home Care Package and aged care providers.

Council District Page Reference Home CareResidential

Adelaide 130-134138

Adelaide Hills 130-134138

Adelaide Plains 130-134

Alexandrina 130-134138

APY Lands 135-136148

Barossa 130-134138

Barunga West 135-136148

Berri Barmera 135-136148

Burnside 130-134139

Campbelltown 130-134139

Ceduna 135-136148

Charles Sturt 130-134140

Clare & Gilbert Valleys 135-136149

Cleve 135-136149

Coober Pedy 135-136149

Copper Coast 135-136149

Elliston 135-136149

Flinders Ranges 135-136149

Franklin Harbour 135-136149

Gawler 130-134140

Goyder 135-136149

Grant 135-136149

Holdfast Bay 130-134140-141

Kangaroo Island 130-134141

Karoonda East Murray 135-136150

Kimba 135-136150

Kingston 135-136150

Light 130-134141

Lower Eyre Peninsula 135-136150

Loxton Waikerie 135-136150

Marion 130-134141

Council District Page Reference Home CareResidential

Mid Murray 135-136142

Mitcham 130-134142

Mount Barker 130-134142

Mount Gambier 135-136150

Mount Remarkable 135-136150

Murray Bridge 135-136150

Naracoorte Lucindale 135-136151

Northern Area 135-136151

Norwood Payneham St Peters 130-134142

Onkaparinga 130-134143-144

Orroroo Carrieton 135-136151

Peterborough 135-136151

Playford 130-134144

Port Adelaide Enfield 130-134144-145

Port Augusta 135-136151

Port Lincoln 135-136151

Port Pirie 135-136151

Prospect 130-134145

Renmark Paringa 135-136151

Robe 135-136

Roxby Downs 135-136

Salisbury 130-134145-146

Southern Mallee 135-136151-152

Streaky Bay 135-136152

Tatiara 135-136152

Tea Tree Gully 130-134146

The Coorong 135-136152

Tumby Bay 135-136152

Unley 130-134147

Victor Harbor 130-134147

Council District

Wakefield 135-136152

Walkerville 130-134147

Wattle Range 135-136152

West Torrens 130-134147-148

Whyalla 135-136152

Wudinna 135-136153

Yalata 135-136

Yankalilla 130-134148

Yorke Peninsula 135-136153

NT Council District

Tiwi Islands

Suburb & town reference index

This suburb index will direct you to the page listing aged care homes in that area. If a suburb/town is not listed, please refer to the next closest suburb.

Suburb / Town Page

Aberfoyle Park 143

Aldgate 138

Aldinga Beach 143

Angle Park 144

Ardrossan 153

Balaklava 152

Barmera 148

Belair 142

Bellevue Heights 142

Berri 148

Booleroo Centre 150

Bordertown 152

Brompton 140

Burra 149

Burton 145

Campbelltown 139

Ceduna 148

Cheltenham 140

Christie Downs 143

Christies Beach 143

Clare 149

Cleve 149

Coober Pedy 149

Cowandilla 147

Cowell 149

Craigmore 144

Croydon Park 144

Crystal Brook 151

Cummins 150

Davoren Park 144

Daw Park 142

Elizabeth East 144

Elizabeth Park 144

Elizabeth Vale 144

Elliston 149

Encounter Bay 147

Enfield 144

Eudunda 149

Evanston Park 140

Everard Park 147

Felixstow 142

Flagstaff Hill 143

Freeling 141

Fulham 148

Fullarton 147

Gawler East 140

Suburb / Town Page

Gilles Plains 144 Glen Osmond 139

Glenelg 140

Glenelg South 140

Glengowrie 141

Glynde 142

Golden Grove 146

Goolwa 138

Grange 140

Gumeracha 138 Hackham 143

Hahndorf 142

Hamley Bridge 150 Happy Valley 143 Hawker 149 Heathfield 138 Hendon 140 Hope Valley 146 Hove 141

Huntfield Heights 143 Ingle Farm 145 Jamestown 151 Joslin 142 Kadina 149 Kapunda 141 Karoonda 150 Keith 152

Gardens

Suburb

Home Care Packages

Levels 1, 2, 3 & 4

Private Care Available

Yellow Door has been operating for over 50 years and is a family-owned business in Adelaide, South Australia. All of our Care Coordinators are Registered and Enrolled nurses, and have a passion for the caring of others. We are experts in Aged Care and have an acute understanding of the need for consumers to have choice and control over their services. Yellow Door has the simplest, most transparent pricing structure in the industry and without doubt, the lowest management fees possible so that you can spend more of your funds on care hours!

H O M E C A R E P A C K A G E S

Home Care Packages directory –approved providers

Approved Home Care Package providers offer home care and support services to members of the community who live at home.

If you’ve been approved for a government-funded Home Care Package of any type, you may approach any approved Home Care Package provider to deliver the services you need.

Some providers may only offer services in one region while others can service multiple areas.

On the following pages, you’ll find alphabetised lists of approved providers in SA.

To help you know which approved providers offer services in a certain region, we’ve included coloured bars down the left-hand side of the directory pages.

The list below is a quick reference guide to help you find which group council districts are listed in. For example, Onkaparinga LGA is grouped under ‘Southern.’

The colour-coded maps on page 129 show you which council districts are grouped together.

Council

AdelaideEastern

Adelaide Hills Eastern

Adelaide Plains Northern

AlexandrinaSouthern

BarossaNorthern

BurnsideEastern

Campbelltown Mid Northern

Charles Sturt Western

GawlerNorthern Council

Holdfast Bay Western

Kangaroo Island Southern LightNorthern

MarionWestern

MitchamEastern

Mount Barker Eastern

Norwood Payneham

St Peters Mid Northern

OnkaparingaSouthern

PlayfordNorthern

Port Adelaide EnfieldMid Northern

Prospect Mid Northern

SalisburyNorthern

Tea Tree Gully Mid Northern

UnleyEastern

Victor Harbor Southern

Walkerville Mid Northern

West Torrens Western YankalillaSouthern

Council District SA Regional

APY Lands West

Barunga West Mid North

Berri Barmera East

CedunaWest

Clare & Gilbert ValleysMid North CleveWest

Coober Pedy West

Copper CoastMid North

EllistonWest

Flinders Ranges North

Franklin Harbour West

Goyder Mid North

Grant South East

Karoonda East Murray East KimbaWest

Council District SA Regional

Kingston South East

Lower Eyre Peninsula West

Loxton Waikerie East

Mid Murray East

Mount GambierSouth East

Mount Remarkable North

Murray Bridge East

Naracoorte LucindaleSouth East

Northern Area North

Orroroo Carrieton North

PeterboroughNorth

Port Augusta North

Port Lincoln West

Port Pirie North

Renmark Paringa East

Council District SA Regional

Robe South East

Roxby Downs West

Southern MalleeSouth East

Streaky Bay West

Tatiara South East

The CoorongSouth East

Tumby Bay West

Wakefield Mid North

Wattle RangeSouth East WhyallaNorth WudinnaWest

YalataWest

Yorke PeninsulaMid North

South Australia region map

These maps provide you with a geographical reference for the council (LGA) areas in South Australia.

How to read the Home Care Packages table

The table on the next few pages lists approved HCP providers in alphabetical order, detailing the HCP levels they offer and if they offer any package supplements.

Ethnicities, nationalities or cultural identities listed under ‘Notes’ apply to all package levels in that row. If service providers have an advertisement in this guide, then the page number of the advert is listed in red under 'Advert Page.' The ‘DPS Web ID’ number can be used as a unique identifier to find out more information on AgedCareGuide.com.au .

The same type of care and services are provided under each HCP level of care, and these may include transport, domestic assistance, social support, personal care, home maintenance, home modification, nursing care, food services and medication assistance.

The hours of care are increased at each level of care, i.e. more hours of care and services are provided under HCP Level 4 and the least under HCP Level 1.

Package supplements, like the Dementia Supplement Z and the Veterans’ Supplement R , are offered to eligible persons only. Some packages are specifically for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged e , people with housing needs or at risk of homelessness Y , or for people who live in rural or remote areas t . The cultural environment g indicates providers offering services for people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Based on your care needs, an ACAT assessment will determine what level of care you are eligible for and if any supplements apply to you. e

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia 8

These icons help you find the packages that are most suitable for you.

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged Y

Packages for veterans Z

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Note:

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

These

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged Y

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for veterans

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

These

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged Y

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for veterans

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

These

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for veterans

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

These

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged Y

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for veterans

environment

How to read the residential tables

Residential icon definitions

Icons in the residential listings represent various types of services available in aged care facilities.

Booked Respite Beds — Dedicated respite beds that should be booked in advance. Prior assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) is required.

Extra Services — A service offering a ‘higher’ standard of accommodation, including increased entertainment and food choices at an additional cost to the resident.

Pets on Premises — The facility owns dogs or cats that are able to interact freely with residents. Some facilities may consider you bringing your small pets.

Secure Dementia Unit — Safe and secure wing or unit of the aged care facility offering specialised care to those living with dementia.

Secure Garden — An onsite secure gated garden for residents (especially those with dementia) to enjoy for recreation or therapy.

Specialist Palliative Care — Specialised care services for those nearing the end of their life in an aged care facility. Staff are trained in pain management and other palliative care measures. Transition Care Beds — A bed-based service allowing older people more time and support post-hospitalisation in a ‘non-hospital’ environment to optimise their functional capacity.

Culturally Specific — Care services catering to the needs of those from non-English speaking or culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Seldom exclusive, for example, all people are welcome. The home has special knowledge of the referenced culture or group.

Retirement Living Onsite — Retirement living services/village co-located on the same geographic site as the aged care facility.

South Australia Residential aged care homes

ADELAIDE to BAROSSA

ADELAIDE Council

North

5006

Aldgate 5154

Gumeracha 5233

5153

Lobethal 5241

Uraidla 5142

Woodside 5244

Goolwa 5214

Port Elliot 5212 Resthaven Port Elliot3

Strathalbyn 5255

Estia Health Strathalbyn7

Strathalbyn & Districts Health Service43

BAROSSA Council

Mount Pleasant 5235

TorrensValley Aged Care Mount

Nuriootpa 5355

BarossaVillage Residential Care9 Atze

Tanunda 5352

Lutheran Homes Barossa - Res

Williamstown 5351 Wirraminna

BURNSIDE to CAMPBELLTOWN

BURNSIDE Council

Glen Osmond 5064 Glen

Kensington Gardens 5068

Estia Health Kensington Gardens 421The

Leabrook 5068

Resthaven Leabrook336 Kensington

Linden Park 5065

CAMPBELLTOWN Council

Campbelltown 5074

Warrina Court46 McShane

Magill 5072 Clayton

Paradise 5075

Paradise61 Silkes Rd 8373 9113

Warrina Park59 George St 1300 424

METROPOLITAN Aged Care Homes listed by Councils (LGAs) and then Suburbs

CHARLES STURT to HOLDFAST BAY

CHARLES STURT Council

Brompton 5007

AnglicareSA Brompton2-10 First St 1800 317 009 4040

Ashman Grove Residential Aged Care58 Chief St 8346 6519 8775

Ridleyton Greek Home for the Aged89 Hawker

St Anna's Residential Care Facility41 Burley Gri n

Cheltenham 5014

Walkerville Lodge6 James St 8447 2317 P

Grange 5022 AnglicareSA Grange56

UnitingSAWestminsterVillage

Hendon 5014 Eldercare Acacia

Pennington 5013

PennwoodVillage19Windsor

Seaton 5023

The House of St Hilarion7 Kelly Ave 8409 1500 122110

Park 5019

West Beach 5024

West Croydon 5008

5021

Evanston Park 5116

BAY Council

Glenelg 5045

Glenelg South 5045

HOLDFAST BAY continued to MARION

HOLDFAST BAY Council

Hove 5048 Alwyndor52

Somerton Park 5044

Kingscote 5223

LIGHT Council

Freeling 5372

Kapunda 5373 Kapunda

Nuriootpa 5355

MARION Council

Glengowrie 5044

Marion 5043

Morphettville 5043

Oaklands Park 5046

Trott Park 5158

MID MURRAY to NORWOOD PAYNEHAM ST PETERS

MID MURRAY Council

Mount Pleasant 5235

TorrensValley Aged

Council Belair 5052

Kalyra Belair Aged

Bellevue Heights 5050

Resthaven Bellevue Heights47

Daw Park 5041

Kingswood 5062

Park 5041

Hahndorf 5245

Council

5251

Felixstow 5070 Uniting

Glynde 5070

Joslin 5070

NORWOOD PAYNEHAM ST PETERS COUNCIL cont'd

NORWOOD PAYNEHAM ST PETERS Council continued

Norwood 5067

Wynwood Nursing Home77 Sydenham Rd

Payneham South 5070

EldercareTrowbridge House 9 Luhrs Rd

St Peters 5069

St Basil's Homes (SA) - St Peters 9Winchester

ONKAPARINGA Council

Aberfoyle Park 5159

Estia Health Aberfoyle Park39 Campus Dr

Resthaven Aberfoyle Park100 Hub Dr 8373 9113

Aldinga Beach 5173

Christie Downs 5164

St Basil's Homes AegeanVillage10 Morton

Christies Beach 5165

Flagsta Hill 5159

Estia Health Flagsta Hill40 Skyline Dr

Hackham 5163

Happy Valley 5159

Hunt eld Heights 5163

McLaren Vale 5171

Morphett Vale 5162

Old Reynella 5161

Hillside

Councils (LGAs) and then Suburbs

ONKAPARINGA cont'd to PORT ADELAIDE ENFIELD

ONKAPARINGA Council continued

Port Noarlunga 5167

ACH Group Residential

Seaford 5169

Eldercare Seaford100 Seaford Rd

Woodcroft 5162

Eldercare Cottage Grove150

PLAYFORD Council

Craigmore 5114

Estia Health Craigmore150 Adams

Resthaven Craigmore200

Davoren Park 5113

Regis Playford

Elizabeth East 5112

Elizabeth Park 5113

5112

Park 5116

Evanston Park17

Smith eld 5114

Angle Park 5010

Linsell Lodge Aged Care Centre2-16

Park 5008 St Basil's Homes Croydon

En eld 5085

Gilles Plains 5086

METROPOLITAN

PORT ADELAIDE ENFIELD continued to SALISBURY

PORT ADELAIDE ENFIELD Council continued Kilburn 5084

Churchill Retreat470 Churchill

Klemzig 5087

Klemzig Residential Care ServiceLeighton Ave

Southern Cross Care*6A

Largs Bay 5016

Largs North 5016

Lightsview 5085

Oakden 5086

Rosewater 5013

Semaphore 5019

Valley View 5093

Council Prospect 5082

Council

Burton 5110

Estia Health Burton367-379Waterloo

Elizabeth Vale 5112

Ingle Farm 5098

SALISBURY continued to TEA TREE GULLY

SALISBURY Council

Para eld Gardens 5107

Salisbury 5108

East 5109

Salisbury North 5108

South 5106

5093

5098

5086

UNLEY to WEST TORRENS

UNLEY Council

Everard Park 5035

Everard Park Care Community 34 NormanTce

Fullarton 5063

Lutheran Homes Group Fullarton14 Frew St 1300 320

Southern Cross Care*345 Fullarton Rd 8373 1570

Malvern 5061

Resthaven Malvern43 Marlborough St 8373 9113

Myrtle Bank 5064

Bolton Clarke Carinya, Myrtle Bank39 Fisher St 8130 6444 53

Parkside 5063

Aldridge Court Supported Res Facility 109-111Young St 8373 4401 P 11

Estia Health Parkside17 Robsart St 1300 682 833 4020

St Louis Nursing Home: Boutique Care21 Foster St 8272 3344 5555

Wayville 5034

EldercareThe Lodge 14-24 KingWilliam Rd 1300 925

RoseTerrace Lodge102 RoseTce 8272 1182 P 21

VICTOR HARBOR Council

Encounter Bay 5211

Estia Health Encounter Bay150 Bay Rd

McCracken 5211

Victor Harbor 5211

Bolton Clarke Ross Robertson19 Cornhill Rd 8551 0600

WALKERVILLE Council

Walkerville 5081

Bolton ClarkeWalkerville160WalkervilleTce 8342 8300

WEST TORRENS Council Cowandilla 5033

Calvary Flora

METROPOLITAN

WEST TORRENS continued to YANKALILLA

WEST TORRENS Council continued Fulham 5024

Villa St Hilarion Fulham21 Farncomb Rd

Lockleys 5032

Estia Health Lockleys8 Mellor Ave

Serene Residential Care Services1 Myzantha

St Raphael's Home for the Aged2

Marleston 5033

Regis Marleston

North Plympton 5037

West Beach 5024

YANKALILLA Council

Yankalilla 5203

APY LANDS Council

Pukatja 0872 Tjilpiku

WEST Council Port Broughton 5522

Barmera 5345

5343

Ceduna 5690

REGIONAL Aged Care Homes listed

CLARE & GILBERT VALLEYS to GRANT

CLARE & GILBERT VALLEYS Council

Clare 5453 Helping Hand Carinya Clare 17-19AVictoria

Riverton 5412 GilbertValley

Cleve 5640

COOBER PEDY Council

Coober Pedy 5723

COPPER COAST Council

Kadina 5554

5558

Wallaroo 5556

Council

Elliston 5670

RANGES Council

Hawker 5434

Quorn 5433

FRANKLIN HARBOUR Council

Cowell 5602

GOYDER Council

Burra 5417

5374

GRANT Council

Yahl 5291 The

KAROONDA EAST MURRAY to MURRAY BRIDGE

KAROONDA EAST MURRAY Council

Karoonda 5307

Council

Kimba 5641

SE 5275

Hamley Bridge 5401

Cummins 5631

Loxton 5333

5330

REGIONAL Aged Care Homes

NARACOORTE LUCINDALE to SOUTHERN MALLEE

NARACOORTE LUCINDALE Council

Naracoorte 5271

NORTHERN AREA Council

Jamestown 5491

Laura 5480

5431

PETERBOROUGH Council

Peterborough 5422

PORT AUGUSTA Council

Port Augusta 5700

Port Lincoln 5606

PORT PIRIE Council

Crystal Brook 5523

Flinders

Port Pirie 5540

PARINGA Council

Renmark 5341

Renmark Paringa

SOUTHERN MALLEE Council

Lameroo 5302

SOUTHERN MALLEE continued to WHYALLA

SOUTHERN MALLEE Council

Pinnaroo 5304

Streaky Bay 5680

5268

5267

Meningie 5264

Council

Bend 5260

5605

Balaklava 5461

Bridge 5401

Snowtown 5520

WATTLE RANGE Council

Millicent 5280

Penola 5277

Council

Whyalla 5600

Whyalla Stuart 5608 Helping

REGIONAL

WUDINNA to YORKE PENINSULA

Wudinna 5652

Ardrossan 5571

Maitland 5573

Minlaton 5575

Aged Care Homes with Extra Services

extra service providers are also listed in the directory on pages 138–153

SA culturally appropriate aged care homes

Table of aged care homes/residential care facilities offering culturally appropriate services

The following table is only a guide and the information should not be interpreted to mean that these homes are exclusive to the noted cultural group or the only homes that offer quality services to these cultural groups. Aged care homes should care for everyone, regardless of sexuality, race or religious identity. The homes listed below have directly indicated to DPS that they have specific training, expertise, funding or a heightened understanding of the special needs of the cultural group.

Cultural Group Aged Care Home Name PHONE (08) DPS Web ID

ATSI Aboriginal EldersVillage Davoren Park 8287 1454 14985

ATSI Cleve Hospital & Crestview HostelCleve 8628 2399 15369

ATSI Eden eld Family Care NerrildaPort Augusta 8641 0043 15006

ATSI SeaviewVillage Thevenard 8625 2590 15359

ATSI Tjilpiku Pampaku Ngura Aged Care Service Pukatja 8956 7033 19671

ATSI Umoona Aged Care (TjilpiTjuta Kanyini)Coober Pedy 8672 5605 15222

ATSI Wami Kata Old Folks HomePort Augusta 8641 1233 15058

CALD Bene Aged Care St Paul's HahndorfHahndorf 8131 2000 15056

CALD Bene CampbelltownCampbelltown 8397 0200 15080

CALD Bene ItalianVillage - St AgnesSt Agnes 8397 0200 15064

CALD Bene St ClairWoodville 8397 0200 14919

CALD North Eastern Community Res AC FacilityCampbelltown 8366 8261 14908

CALD Para Hills Residential Care Para HillsWest 8282 5400 15096

CALD St Anna's Residential Care FacilityBrompton 8346 0955 15169

CALD St Basil's Homes (SA) - AegeanVillageChristie Downs 7424 0900 14947

CALD St Basil's Homes (SA) - Croydon ParkCroydon Park 7424 0900 15028

CALD St Basil's Homes (SA) - St PetersSt Peters 7424 0900 15055

CALD Uniting Communities Aldersgate Res Aged Care Felixstow 8206 0411 14950

CALD Uniting Communities Murray Mudge Aged Care Glenelg 8375 1111 15008

Croatian UnitingSA Seaton Aged CareSeaton 8448 6280 15106

Dutch Rembrandt Court (Residential)Oaklands Park 8198 0300 15102

Estn

European PennwoodVillage Pennington 8341 0401 14973

Estonian Amber Aged CareParadise 8465 5500 15057

European PennwoodVillage Pennington 8341 0401 14973

European Rembrandt Court (Residential)Oaklands Park 8198 0300 15102

European The House of St HilarionSeaton 8409 1500 15174

Filipino Para Hills Residential Care Para HillsWest 8282 5400 15096

German All Care Aged Care -TheVales MorphettVale 8321 0100 15275

German Para Hills Residential Care Para HillsWest 8282 5400 15096

Greek All Care Aged Care -TheVales MorphettVale 8321 0100 15275

Greek Para Hills Residential Care Para HillsWest 8282 5400 15096

Greek Ridleyton Greek Home for the AgedBrompton 8340 1155 14969

Greek St Basil's Homes (SA) - AegeanVillageChristie Downs 7424 0900 14947

Greek St Basil's Homes (SA) - Croydon ParkCroydon Park 7424 0900 15028

Greek St Basil's Homes (SA) - St PetersSt Peters 7424 0900 15055

Hungarian Clayton Church Homes - Magill Manor Residential Aged Care Magill 8165 6400 18821

Hungarian Oakden Green Aged CareOakden 8261 3688 15094

Indian All Care Aged Care -TheVales MorphettVale 8321 0100 15275

Italian All Care Aged Care -TheVales MorphettVale 8321 0100 15275

Italian Bene Aged Care St Paul's HahndorfHahndorf 8131 2000 15056

Italian Bene CampbelltownCampbelltown 8397 0200 15080

Italian Bene ItalianVillage - St AgnesSt Agnes 8397 0200 15064

Italian Bene St ClairWoodville 8397 0200 14919

Italian Para Hills Residential Care Para HillsWest 8282 5400 15096

Italian St Joseph's House Residential Care FacilityPort Pirie 8632 1450 15009

Italian The House of St HilarionSeaton 8409 1500 15174

Italian Villa St Hilarion FulhamFulham 8235 9055 15184

Latvian Amber Aged CareParadise 8465 5500 15057

Polish All Care Aged Care -TheVales MorphettVale 8321 0100 15275

Polish Para Hills Residential Care Para HillsWest 8282 5400 15096

Polish PennwoodVillage Pennington 8341 0401 14973

Russian All Care Aged Care -TheVales MorphettVale 8321 0100 15275

Serbian Oakden Green Aged CareOakden 8261 3688 15094

Serbian PennwoodVillage Pennington 8341 0401 14973

Ukrainian UnitingSA Seaton Aged CareSeaton 8448 6280 15106

Vietnamese Calvary Flora McDonaldCowandilla 1800 527 272 15121

Vietnamese The House of St HilarionSeaton 8409 1500 15174

SA culturally appropriate Home Care Packages

Table of Home Care Package (HCP) providers offering culturally appropriate services

The following table is only a guide and the information should not be interpreted to mean that these Home Care Packages are exclusive to the noted cultural group or the only packages that offer quality services to these cultural groups. All Home Care Packages are tailored to care for people regardless of sexuality, race or religious identity. The service providers of these Home Care Packages, listed below, have directly indicated to DPS that they have specific training, expertise, funding or a heightened understanding of the special needs of the cultural group.

Cultural Group Service Provider PHONE (08) DPS Web ID

African Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

Arabic Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

Arabic ACH Group Home Care Packages

Arabic Home Caring

1300 224 477 17475

1300 875 377 39049

Asian Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

Asian Home Caring

1300 875 377 39049

ATSI Aboriginal Community Services 8346 9155 21730

ATSI Calvary Home Care Adelaide 1800 527 272 17856

ATSI Country Health Connect Eyre Home Care Packages 1800 944 912 17512

ATSI Country Health Connect Limestone Coast HCPs 1800 944 912 17520

ATSI Country Health Connect Riverland Mallee Coorong HCPs 1800 944 912 17469

ATSI Country Health ConnectYorke & Northern HCPs 1800 944 912 17465

ATSI Helping Hand Country Home Care Services

ATSI Home Support Services (SA)

ATSI Let's Get Care (SA)

ATSI Southern Cross Care* Inc Home Care SA

ATSI Trilogy Care

1300 444 663 17490

1800 854 300 15318

1300 497 442 38286

1800 852 772 19703

1300 459 190 62701

ATSI Umoona Aged Care (TjilpiTjuta Kanyini) 8672 5605 15222

ATSI Wami Kata Old Folks Home 8641 1233 15058

Austrian Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

Austrian Rembrandt Living Home Care

8198 0392 19704

Bosnian MCWA - Aged CareWith A Di erence 03 9318 1111 22041

CALD Bene Casa - Home Care Packages (HCP) 8131 2000 17516

CALD Better Living Home Care Packages (SA)

CALD Calvary Home Care Adelaide

CALD Claro Aged Care & Disability Services

1300 307 344 21846

1800 527 272 17856

1300 303 770 22122

CALD Family Home Support Services 8336 6637 19180

CALD Helping Hand Metro Home Care Services

CALD Home Support Services (SA)

CALD Let's Get Care (SA)

CALD LingCare

1300 444 663 17491

1800 854 300 15318

1300 497 442 38286

8371 0711 22031

CALD MCWA - Aged CareWith A Di erence 03 9318 1111 22041

CALD Pennwood Home Care

CALD Southern Cross Care* Inc Home Care SA

CALD Trilogy Care

CALD Uniting Communities Home Care Packages

Cambodian ACH Group Home Care Packages

8341 0401 20757

1800 852 772 19703

1300 459 190 62701

1800 615 677 17472

1300 224 477 17475

Chinese Better Living Home Care Packages (SA) 1300 307 344 21846

Chinese ChineseWelfare Services of SA Inc 8212 2988 21761

Cultural

Chinese Home Caring 1300 875 377 39049

Chinese

Croatian

Estn

European

SA culturally appropriate Home Care Packages

Italian St Louis Home Care -Victor Harbor, Fleurieu Peninsula & SouthernVales 8552 1481 21533

Italian The House of St Hilarion

8409 1500 15174

Jewish Help at Home by Monte ore 1800 251 537 20057

Latvian Polish Aged Care - Home Care Packages 8232 1464 17823

Latvian St Louis Home Care - Adelaide, Adelaide Hills & SouthernVales 8332 0950 17477

Latvian St Louis Home Care -Victor Harbor, Fleurieu Peninsula & SouthernVales 8552 1481 21533

LGBTIQ Helping Hand Country Home Care Services

LGBTIQ Helping Hand Metro Home Care Services

444 663 17490

444 663 17491

LGBTIQ Kalyra Help at Home 8278 0390 20392

LGBTIQ Let's Get Care (SA)

497 442 38286

LGBTIQ MCWA - Aged CareWith A Di erence 03 9318 1111 22041

LGBTIQ Southern Cross Care* Inc Home Care SA

LGBTIQ St Louis Home Care - Adelaide, Adelaide Hills & SouthernVales

852 772 19703

0950 17477

LGBTIQ St Louis Home Care -Victor Harbor, Fleurieu Peninsula & SouthernVales 8552 1481 21533

LGBTIQ Star

LGBTIQ

Macedonian GOCSA Community Care Services

Macedonian MCWA - Aged

0019 19567

0500 17500

SA centre-based care (CBC)

See De nition of

SA day therapy centres

NT in-home care services

See De nition of

on page 117

NT in-home care services

See De nition of

on page 117

O M E C A R E P A C K A G E S

Home Care Packages directory –approved providers

Approved Home Care Package providers offer home care and support services to members of the community who live at home.

If you’ve been approved for a government-funded Home Care Package of any type, you may approach any approved HCP provider to provide the services you need.

Some providers may only provide services in one region while others can service multiple areas.

On the following pages, you’ll find alphabetical lists of approved providers in the NT.

To help you know which approved providers offer services in a certain region, we’ve included coloured bars down the left-hand side of the directory pages.

The list below is a quick reference guide to help you find which group council districts are listed in. For example, Alice Springs LGA is grouped under ‘Southern.’

The colour-coded map on page 163 shows you which council districts are grouped together.

Council District NT Alice Springs Southern BarklyCentral

Belyuen

Council District NT MacDonnellSouthern

Palmerston

Greater Darwin

Central Desert Central

Coomalie

Greater Darwin

Darwin Greater Darwin East ArnhemNorth Eastern

Katherine NorthWestern

Litchfield

Greater Darwin

Roper GulfNorth Eastern

Tiwi IslandsNorth Eastern

Victoria Daly NorthWestern

Wagait

Greater Darwin

West ArnhemNorth Eastern

West Daly NorthWestern

Greater Darwin

Northern Territory region map

This map provides you with a geographical reference to the Council (LGA) areas in the Northern Territory.

How to read the Home Care Packages table

The table on the next few pages lists approved HCP providers in alphabetical order, detailing the HCP levels they offer and if they offer any package supplements.

The ‘DPS Web ID’ number can be used as a unique identifier to find out more information on AgedCareGuide.com.au .

The hours of care are increased at each level of care, i.e. more hours of care and services are provided under HCP Level 4 and the least under HCP Level 1.

Based on your care needs, an ACAT assessment will determine what level of care you are eligible for and if any supplements apply to you.

These icons help you find the packages that are most suitable for you.

8

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Z

Packages for people with dementia

e

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged

Y

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

t

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

R

Packages for veterans

Cultural environment

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

These icons help you find the packages that are most suitable for you.

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for veterans

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

These icons help you find the packages that are most suitable for you.

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for veterans

How to read the residential tables

Residential icon definitions

Booked Respite Beds — Dedicated respite beds that should be booked in advance. Prior assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) is required.

Extra Services — A service offering a ‘higher’ standard of accommodation, including increased entertainment and food choices at an additional cost to the resident.

Pets on Premises — The facility owns dogs or cats that are able to interact freely with residents. Some facilities may consider you bringing your small pets.

Secure Dementia Unit — Safe and secure wing or unit of the aged care facility offering specialised care to those living with dementia.

Secure Garden — An onsite secure gated garden for residents (especially those with dementia) to enjoy for recreation or therapy.

Retirement Living Onsite — Retirement living services/village co-located on the same geographic site as the aged care facility. Icons in the residential listings represent various types of services available in aged care facilities.

Culturally Specific — Care services catering to the needs of those from non-English speaking or culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; generally, all are welcome, but the home has special knowledge of the referenced culture or group.

Residential aged care

NORTHERN TERRITORY

ALICE SPRINGS to WEST DALY

ALICE SPRINGS Council

Alice Springs 0870

Council

Tennant Creek 0860 Pulkapulkka

Grove 0810

Fannie Bay 0820

Tiwi 0810

Katherine 0850

Council

Kaltukatjara 0872 Tjilpi

Mutitjulu 0872 Nganampa

0830

Borroloola 0854

Malandari

Wurrumiyanga 0822

Calvary

Maningrida 0822

Wadeye 0822 Thamarrurr

NT culturally appropriate aged care homes

Table of aged care homes/residential care facilities offering culturally appropriate services

The following table is only a guide and the information should not be interpreted to mean that these homes are exclusive to the noted cultural group nor the only homes that offer quality services to these cultural groups. All aged care homes should care for all people regardless of sexuality, race, or religious identities. The homes listed below have specifically indicated to DPS that they have training, expertise, funding or a heightened understanding of the special needs of the cultural group.

Cultural Group Aged Care Home Name

ATSI Calvary Mulakunya Flexible Aged Care Serv Wurrumiyanga 1800 527 272 19652

ATSI Hetti Perkins Home for the AgedAlice Springs 8952 5811 18880

ATSI Juninga CentreCoconut Grove 8948 0442 18879

ATSI Kalano Aged Care ServiceKatherine 8971 1999 19644

ATSI Katherine HostelKatherine 8972 1407 18881

ATSI Mala'la Aged Care & Community ServicesManingrida 8979 5474 19662

ATSI Malandari Aged Care CentreBorroloola 8975 6716 19663

Cultural

ATSI Nganampa Ngura Mutitjulu-nya Flexible AC Serv Mutitjulu 8956 2651 19627

ATSI OldTimersVillage Alice Springs 8952 2844 18882

ATSI Pulkapulkka Kari Flexible Aged Care Service Tennant Creek 8962 1222 18883

ATSI Rocky Ridge AC Facility & Katherine Com'ty Care Katherine 8972 3399 18884

ATSI Thamarrurr Aged Care ServiceWadeye 8978 2490 19647

ATSI Tjilpi Pampaku Ngura Flexible Aged Care Serv Kaltukatjara 8956 7262 19642

NT culturally appropriate Home Care Packages

Table of Home Care Package (HCP) providers offering culturally appropriate services

The following table is only a guide and the information should not be interpreted to mean that these Home Care Packages are exclusive to the noted cultural group nor the only packages that offer quality services to these cultural groups. All Home Care Packages are tailored to care for all people regardless of sexuality, race or religious identities. The service providers of these Home Care Packages, listed below, have specifically indicated to DPS that they have training, expertise, funding or heightened understanding of the special needs of the cultural group.

Cultural Group Service Provider PHONE (08) DPS Web ID

African Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

Arabic Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

Asian Abigail Mamas Healthcare Services 0401 093 396 65824

ATSI Ali-Curung Aged Care 8964 1580 19654

ATSI Alpurrurulam Aged Care 07 4748 4800 17279

ATSI Amoonguna Home Care Service 8953 7618 19634

ATSI Ampilatwatja Aged Care 8956 9229 19653

ATSI Anglicare NT Community Care Alice Springs 8951 8000 38365

ATSI Anglicare NT Community Care Darwin 8985 0000 38364

ATSI Anglicare NT Community Care East Arnhem 8939 3400 19666

ATSI Areyonga (Utju) Home Care Service 8954 8254 19641

ATSI Arlparra Aged Care 8956 9010 19646

ATSI ARRCS Community Care Darwin 8982 5200 19626

ATSI Calvary Home CareTiwi Islands 1800 527 272 19652

ATSI Central Desert Regional Council Aged Care Services 8958 9500 19656

ATSI East Arnhem Regional Council Aged & Disability Serv 8986 8918 19939

ATSI Elliott Aged Care 8969 2167 19630

ATSI Finke (Aputula) Home Care Service

8956 0433 19772

ATSI Galiwinku Aged & Disability Service 8979 8811 19782

ATSI Gapuwiyak Aged & Disability Service 8970 3305 19783

ATSI Golden Glow Nursing Services Darwin 8927 2756 19204

ATSI Golden Glow Nursing Serv Katherine & Pine Creek 8927 2756 20785

Community Care

ATSI Haasts Blu (Ikuntji) Home Care Service

ATSI Hermannsburg (Ntaria) Home Care Service

9478 19659

8964 7103 19637

8956 2994 19669

ATSI Home Support Services (NT) 1800 854 300 21927

ATSI Imanpa Home Care Service

ATSI Julalikari Council Community Care

ATSI Kakadu Community Care

8954 9059 19773

8962 2463 19631

8979 9478 19667

ATSI Kalkarindji Daguragu Aged Care Service 8977 0130 19645

ATSI Larrakia Nation Home Care Packages

ATSI Laynhapuy Homelands Aged Care

ATSI Ltyentye Apurte Community Care

ATSI Mala'la Aged Care & Community Services

ATSI Marthakal Homelands Health Service

ATSI Milingimbi Aged & Disability Service

ATSI Minyerri Aged Care

ATSI Mount Liebig Aged Care

ATSI Nauiyu Daly River Aged Care Service

ATSI Papunya (Warumpi) Home Care Service

ATSI Peppimenarti Aged Care Service

8985 6811 19676

0899 19639

5474 19662

5515 19674

1713 19208

9797 19675

8024 19664

8900 19651

8968 19638

2377 19650

ATSI Purple House Aged & Disability Care 8953 6444 38176

ATSI Ramingining Aged & Disability Service

ATSI Rocky Ridge AC Facility & Katherine Com'ty Care

3910 19784

3399 18884

NT culturally appropriate Home Care Packages

ATSI Roper Gulf Regional Council Community Services

ATSI Southern Cross Care* Inc Home Care Darwin

9047 19660

852 772 21236

ATSI Tangentyere Aged & Community Services (TACS) 8951 4222 19620

ATSI Thamarrurr Aged Care Service

ATSI Timber Creek Aged Care Service

2490 19647

0860 19649

ATSI Titjikala Home Care Service 8956 0863 19640

ATSI Umbakumba Aged & Disability Service

ATSI YarralinWalangeri Aged Care Service

Aged & Disability Service

459 190 62701

4509 19785

9478 21999

0839 19648

2410 19786

65824

21927

NT day therapy centres

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Note:

ACH GROUP to BARUNGA VILLAGE

BENE AGED CARE to RESTHAVEN

RESTHAVEN continued to SOUTHERN CROSS CARE

SOUTHERN CROSS CARE

Products & Services

ADVOCACY AND INFORMATION

Agedcare Alternatives

(08)

8408 4600 21, 63 37487

Bene Aged Care -Volunteer Program 8131 2000 67 37661

Polio Australia 03 9016 7678 50 71086

Potts Duhring Financial Advisors 1300 684 402 77 37909

SACARE 1300 145 636 6 45431

See Di erently with the Royal Society for the Blind of SA 1300 944 306 123 45420

Senexus 8344 1991 7 37894

ASSESSMENTS

Right at Home Adelaide Central 8318 7926 24 63491

Right at Home RightCare 07 3054 1360 24 22069

SACARE 1300 145 636 6 45431

See Di erently with the Royal Society for the Blind of SA 1300 944 306 123 45420 ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Calvary Home Maintenance & Modi cations 1800 527 272 23 37128

Respirico Healthcare - Holden Hill 8367 8317 61866

Respirico Healthcare - Kilkenny 8245 1111 45429

Respirico Healthcare - Port Augusta 8250 4804 62705

Respirico Healthcare - Salisbury 8250 4804 48338

Respirico Healthcare -Whyalla 1800 208 826 61867

Respirico Healthcare JoyTo Independency - Port Pirie 8633 0500 61343

Salvos Home Care SA 1300 111 227 33 71220

See Di erently with the Royal Society for the Blind of SA 1300 944 306 123 45420

Sleep Electric - Adjustable Bed & Lift Chair Specialists

1800 600 600 29 48370

Yellow Door Care 8362 3033 127 38389 CASE MANAGEMENT

Right at Home Adelaide Central 8318 7926 24 63491

Right at Home RightCare 07 3054 1360 24 22069

SACARE 1300 145 636 6 45431

See Di erently with the Royal Society for the Blind of SA 1300 944 306 123 45420 EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Polio Australia 03 9016 7678 50 71086 SACARE 1300 145 636 6 45431 END OF LIFE

Guardian Pre-Paid Funerals 1800 220 888 115 71077

Respirico Healthcare - Salisbury 8250 4804 48338

SERVICES Count Adelaide

Products & Services

Respirico

Respirico Healthcare - Salisbury 8250 4804 48338

Respirico Healthcare -Whyalla

Respirico Healthcare JoyTo Independency - Port Pirie 8633 0500 61343 Salvos Home Care SA

HEALTHCARE

5100 76 63184 Financial Success SA - Aged Care Specialists 8223 6880 73 37971 Potts Duhring Financial Advisors

684 402 77 37909

1991 7 37894 LEGAL AND MEDIATION

Senexus 8344 1991 7 37894 MEDICATION MANAGEMENT

SACARE

145 636 6 45431 MOBILITY AND EQUIPMENT

Calvary Home Maintenance & Modi cations 1800 527 272 23 37128 Respirico Healthcare - Holden Hill 8367 8317 61866 Respirico Healthcare - Kilkenny 8245 1111 45429

This section only includes organisations and businesses that have chosen to promote with Aged Care Guide

ORGANISATION

ACH Group

Alwyndor Aged Care

AnglicareSA

(08)

(www.)

1300 224 477 csc@ach.org.auachgroup.org.au

8177 3200 customercare@alwyndor.org.aualwyndor.org.au

1800 317 009 agedcare@anglicaresa.com.auanglicaresa.com.au/older-people

Atlas McNeil Healthcare 1800 888 541 sales@atlasmcneil.com.auamhcommunity.com.au

Auscare Retirement 8132 0232 care@auscare.comauscareretirement.com.au

BarungaVillage 8635 0500 heado ce@barungavillage.com.aubarungavillage.com.au

8131 2000 info@bene.org.aubene.org.au

8321 0300 admin@bethsalemcare.com.aubethsalemcare.com.au

Bolton Clarke 1300 221 122 hello@boltonclarke.com.auboltonclarke.com.au

Bupa Aged Care 1800 718 357 agedcare@bupa.com.aubupaagedcare.com.au

ChineseWelfare Services

Clayton Church Homes

8212 2988 eo@chinesewelfareservices.org.auchinesewelfareservices.org.au

8404 8200 info@claytonhomes.com.auclaytonhomes.com.au

erently.org.auSeeDi

Ashman Grove Residential Aged Care

Nestled in a wide, tree lined street and adjacent to a large park, Ashman Grove is an 87 bed purpose‑built residential aged care facility conveniently located on the northern edge of Adelaide’s CBD.