Steps to aged care

Research

Learn about the different types of care and discover what options are available to you.

Retirement living

Retirement villages are different from 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.

You can buy or rent accommodation and daily care is generally not included. However some providers may offer some support services at an additional charge or you can apply for Government funded home supports.

Steps to accessing aged care

Because each journey is unique with every person starting the process at a different stage and progressing at a different pace, we have created a quick guide to help you access a range of useful information. You’ll find more detail about these steps to aged care on the next few pages or head to AgedCareGuide.com.au to find more information, no matter what stage you’re at.

Prepare

Get an understanding of what you need to consider and prepare ahead of starting any aged care services.

Getting assessed

An aged care assessment will help decide what level of support you require so you can get the care that best meets your needs.

Finding providers

Find providers to deliver a range of products and services meeting your needs and requirements.

Managing services

Read about managing your supports, for example when your needs change, your supports no longer suit you or you would like to change providers.

‘That’s Jess. She helps me with cleaning and odd jobs around the house.’

We know it’s important to our aged care clients to have regular and familiar support workers. And that’s why we will provide a team you know you can rely on. Home care packages – Care for you, designed by you.

To tailor a home care package, call 1800 792 359 or email agedcareenquiries@lwb.org.au

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 are looking for alternative accommodation, it is important to know what options are available to you. Different types of care include:

Support at home

Different care options that might 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.

Basic assistance is offered through the CHSP but if your needs exceed the level of support offered though this program, then a level 1– 4 Home Care Package can offer higher intensity support to help you stay at home. Private providers can also deliver a range of home support services. They are not Government funded and you will need to pay for services out of your own pocket.

Short-term care

There are 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 Program provides short term assistance to help improve your independence and confidence.

If you have not been admitted to hospital, the Short Term Restorative Care program is a flexible option that focuses on regaining wellbeing over a short period of time.

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. Also known as nursing or aged care homes, these facilities 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 are 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 all the 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. Retirement options are not funded by the Government.

Daily care is generally not included but some providers may offer support services at an additional charge or this can be accessed separately through Government funded home support options.