Posted in Age care

As you get older, it is normal for you to feel like you need some extra support to ensure you overall health and well being is maintained. You may feel overwhelmed, however, when it comes to navigating the aged care industry. There are many services, providers and living arrangements available and it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you. We’ve put together a handy guide to help you start your aged care journey.

Step 1: Research your care options

There are many types of aged care services available. These include:

  • In home support, to help you live independently in your own home and community.
  • Short term care, including respite, to help get you back on your feet after a hospital stay or fall.
  • Residential aged care, where you can access round the clock care and assistance.

There any many factors that can influence which type of aged care service is best for you, including your care needs and cost.

Step 2: Organise an assessment

Once you have looked at all the aged care services available, it is time to book an assessment with the government agency called My Aged Care. The assessment will determine your eligibility for government funded care. The assessment is split into two parts: a phone call and a face-to-face assessment. There are two types of assessments that you can receive, depending on your care needs. These are:

  • A home support assessment with a Regional Assessment Service (RAS), for those requiring low-level support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme.
  • A comprehensive assessment with an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), for those who have higher care needs.

To prepare for your assessment, you must have some important documents ready including your medicare card, ID, doctors referrals, health provider details as well as any questions you may have about aged care. You may also have a support person present if you would like.

Step 3: Compare providers

If your assessor finds you eligible for government funded services, it’s time to start looking for a provider. It is important to consider the services, costs, availability, and quality of each provider. To help you compare providers, Southcare has put together a price comparison sheet that looks at the rates for all the aged home care providers in Perth. This simple comparison sheet allows you to compare the services and prices of four home care providers. Click here to access it.

For any more information about how to start your home care journey, Southcare can be contacted on 6117 3050.

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