Aged care at home: What you should know

Aged Care in Australia is being revolutionised after the commencement of the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) earlier this year.

The new system recognises the preferences of a vast number of Australians who favour aged care services at home. The programme has most significantly shifted key care decisions to individuals themselves, rather than being at the discretion of service providers as they were previously.

With the popularity of aged care facilities and retirement living facing a decline, in-home care is emerging as the way of the future with affordable and suitable services available for everyone in need.

The programme offers assistance across a range of areas including personal and health care, social support, transportation, meal preparation, yard maintenance, as well as in-home respite.

There is a four level tier system (basic, low, intermediate and high) of care level packages available and nobody will be refused help – no matter what their financial situation is. Funding allocations are decided by a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) and determinations are based on each individual’s recognised needs.

There are a number of older Australians who are happily retired but have not adequately planned for their later years, potentially leaving them in the lurch when they don’t need to be.

Another factor holding people back is the uncomfortable situation of discussing their own mortality with loved ones. As hard as these conversations can be, the reality is that the sooner these talks are had, the easier it will be for you and your family.

The aged care system can seem like a daunting task to navigate, however after identifying the community need and seeing it as a natural step of progression, Orana is a well-established and not-for-profit organisation which is here to help.

We have 65 years of experience supporting people to remain independent, valued and productive members of the community. By providing tailored quality care services for the elderly at home, we enable them to feel liberated during their twilight.

If you feel ready to take the next step, we are happy to discuss which areas of assisted home care you desire so you can remain comfortable in your own home for as long as possible.

Please click here to contact us so we can make arrangements for your best possible future.