Caring for ageing parents or elderly family members can be rewarding and overwhelming. As their needs grow, many families begin exploring ways to provide extra support while allowing their loved ones to remain in the comfort of their own homes. Home care services offer a practical solution, giving older Australians the help they need with daily tasks, health care, and social connections, all from the safety of their own homes.
If you’re starting to consider this path, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Understanding how home care works and how to access these services can help you make informed decisions that support your loved one’s dignity, independence, and well-being.
What Are Home Care Services?
Home care services for older people are designed to help them live independently for as long as possible. These services may include help with cleaning, cooking, showering, dressing, taking medication, and getting to appointments. Sometimes, they also include clinical care, such as wound management or physiotherapy.
In Australia, home care support is mainly delivered through two government-funded programs. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP). Each offers different levels of support based on the individual’s needs.
The CHSP is generally suited for those who need only a small amount of assistance, such as a weekly cleaning service or help with transport. Home Care Packages are more comprehensive and tailored to people with complex or ongoing care needs. They’re delivered in four levels, ranging from basic to high-level care.
Signs It Might Be Time for Home Care
Knowing when to introduce home care can be challenging, especially if your loved one is fiercely independent or reluctant to accept help. Some common signs include a noticeable decline in hygiene, increasing forgetfulness, unmanaged health conditions, isolation, or struggles with housework and mobility.
You may also notice that caregiving is taking a toll on other family members. Home care services support the person receiving care and give family members some breathing room to rest, work, or manage other responsibilities.
Step 1: Talk to Your Loved One
The first step in arranging home care is an open and respectful conversation with your loved one. This is a sensitive topic, and many older people worry about losing control or becoming a burden. It’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy and a focus on their goals and comfort.
Rather than jumping straight into planning, ask how they’re feeling at home, whether they’re finding specific tasks more difficult, or what would make life easier. Explain that home care doesn’t mean losing independence, it can help them stay at home longer.
Step 2: Organise an Aged Care Assessment
Before government-funded home care can begin, the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) needs to assess your loved one. This free service is organised through My Aged Care, the government’s central point for aged care services.
You can apply for an assessment online or over the phone. Once approved, a member of the ACAT will visit your loved one at home to assess their health, living situation, and care needs. They will then decide which services or package level they’re eligible for.
After the assessment, you’ll receive a letter outlining the outcome and what support has been approved. If your loved one is eligible for a Home Care Package, they’ll be placed in a national queue until a package becomes available. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the level of care required.
Step 3: Choose a Home Care Provider
Once your loved one is assigned a Home Care Package, it’s time to choose a provider. This is an important decision, as the provider will manage the package funds and deliver services.
You’re free to choose from a wide range of providers, so take time to research your options. Consider providers with experience, positive reviews, and a local presence. The best provider is one that listens to your loved one’s goals, builds trust, and offers flexible support.
At this stage, the provider will work with you to develop a care plan. This plan outlines what support will be delivered, how often, and what goals it aims to support. Services include help with personal care, 24-hour support, domestic assistance, nursing care, or transport solutions.
Step 4: Start Receiving Services
Once everything is in place, your loved one will begin receiving care. Good providers will take the time to match support workers based on your loved one’s personality, language, or preferences to help build trust and consistency.
The care plan should be reviewed regularly to suit your loved one’s needs. As circumstances change, whether health improves or new challenges arise, the provider should adapt the care to meet those needs.
It’s also essential to keep communication open. Encourage your loved one to share any concerns about the service, and don’t hesitate to speak to the provider if anything needs to be adjusted.
Step 5: Understand the Costs
Government funding covers most of the cost of home care services, but some fees may still apply. Depending on your loved one’s financial situation, they may be asked to contribute through an income-tested care fee (for Home Care Packages) or a small co-payment (for CHSP services). The fees are capped annually and for a lifetime, so costs remain manageable.
Some families choose to pay for private home care services while waiting for a package, or to top up care beyond what’s funded. This can be helpful if your loved one’s needs are urgent or complex.
Before committing to a provider, fully understand their pricing and how fees will be charged. You should receive a clear statement outlining administration fees, hourly rates, and additional costs.
Conclusion
Getting home care for an elderly loved one is a meaningful step that supports safety, independence, and dignity. Organising everything can take time, but the benefits for your loved one and family are well worth the effort.
By starting the conversation early, arranging an ACAT assessment, and choosing a provider who understands your loved one’s needs, you can ensure that they receive the support they need to stay at home for as long as possible.
Alliance Multicare Services is here to help every step of the way. Our team is experienced in delivering personalised care that respects your loved one’s choices and lifestyle. If you’re ready to explore home care services, contact us today at 1800 448 449. Let’s work together to create a care plan that gives your loved one the support they deserve.
