The process of accessing aged care can be confusing, complex and challenging for the uninitiated. There’s a lot to decide, plan and organise – and you’re not alone if it all feels a little overwhelming. However, you don’t have to take this step alone! There’s plenty of help, advice and support available for older Australians at every step on the journey – from choosing when, where and how to access aged care all the way up to applying to enter an aged care facility. Here are the different types of support for your aged care journey.
Planning support services
Deciding on the best aged care option can feel confusing, so it’s wise to get some advice before making the decision.
Advice on your health and capabilities
Start with your doctor or health care professional, who will be able to advise you on the state of your health and medical conditions. And while they don’t have a crystal ball, your doctor can give you a considered opinion as to when you might need to consider aged care services, given your health and lifestyle.
Advice on your financial situation
Seek the advice of a financial advisor is you need help funding your aged care move, or have property to deal with. They can advise you on the best way to finance your move and care for your property, and help your finances stay in good shape as you make the move into aged care.
Advice on your legal situation
As well, if you have complicated property or family arrangements or need to make a will or an enduring Power of Attorney, it’s advisable to seek legal advice.
Access support services
If you’ve decided it’s time to make the move into aged care, there are a number of services you can access to make that process easier and more understandable.
Accessing aged care services
Advocacy services should be your first port of call if you need help understanding the process of aged care or accessing aged care services and assessments. This free, independent and confidential advocacy service (available at 1800 700 600) can advise you on your rights and responsibilities and help you access government-funded aged care services.
Help with the English language
For non-native English speakers, you can get help from the Translating and Interpreting Services (TIS National) by calling 131 450 for the cost of a local call. This service can assist with more than 100 languages, and can help you access aged care much more easily.
Help with speech or hearing difficulties
Those with speech or hearing difficulties may struggle to access aged care services, particularly over the phone. If this is you, you can contact My Aged Care through the National Relay Service (NRS) on 1800 555 660 or here to choose your preferred access point.
Help with diverse needs
My Aged Care provides a whole host of programs, information, support and services for older Australians with diverse needs, including:
- veterans, their dependants and widows or widowers
- people who are financially or socially disadvantaged
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people(s)
- people from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds
- people who live in a rural and remote area
- people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
- people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex
- people who are Care Leavers (an adult who spent time in institutional or foster care as a child)
- parents separated from their children by forced adoption or removal
Help with your aged care provider
Once you’ve chosen an aged care facility to move into, you’ll need to negotiate your agreement with them. You can access help with the process from a financial advisor, legal professional or advocate. Advocacy is available through the National Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600, and will help you understand the terms of your formal aged care agreement. Any of these services can also help you negotiate accommodation costs and fees with the aged care provider.
Online support
My Aged Care
There is a wealth of information about all aspects of aged care, planning, services, support and information on the My Aged Care website, that should be able to answer most of your initial questions about aged care in Australia. Go to My Aged Care and discover more about the aged care journey.
If you live in NSW and would like to speak to an aged care facility for help and advice, contact Finley Regional Care here.
