Aged care services are an important part of helping us (and our loved ones) receive the care and support we need to maintain our quality of life as we age. Because we all have different needs in the care or support that we require, there are multiple different types of aged care services to choose from.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the various types of aged care services, what they offer, and how they differ in levels of care and cost. Making the right decision is a significant step, and we are here to help you understand the choices that can best suit your situation.
What is Aged Care and When Do You Need It?
Aged care is a range of services designed to support older adults who need assistance with daily living activities, health management, or social engagement. As we age, we may experience physical or mental changes that make it challenging to manage tasks like cooking, cleaning, personal care, and medication.
Aged care services can offer support in a variety of settings, ensuring individuals continue to live with dignity, comfort, and security. You might consider aged care for yourself or a loved one when:
Daily tasks become too difficult
Health concerns or medical conditions arise
Family support is limited
Social isolation becomes a concern
Aged care services provide different levels of support, from occasional help to full-time care, depending on individual needs.
Aged Care Services Types To Choose From
Residential Aged Care (Nursing Homes)
Residential aged care provides 24-hour care in a dedicated facility for people who can no longer live independently. This can be a good option for those with high-care needs who need full support, including assistance with personal care, medical management, meals, and social activities.
At-Home Aged Care (Home Care Services)
At-home aged care allows individuals to remain in their own homes while receiving tailored support. Home care is often favoured by those who want to maintain their independence but need assistance with certain tasks like personal care, house cleaning, meal preparation, or basic nursing care.
Respite Or Post-Hospital Care
Respite care is a short-term service designed to give family caregivers a break, while post-hospital care can be a short term option for those who need some support after injury or illness. It’s a great option when care isn’t needed long term or the primary caregiver needs time for rest or personal commitments.
Paying For Old Age Care Services
There are a number of options to help cover the costs of old age care services, including government support and private funding.
Home Care Packages (HCP) are one of the most popular government-funded services. They are designed to help people who require a higher level of support to live independently at home. These packages are tailored to the individual’s needs and are offered in four levels, from basic care to more complex care. HCP funding can cover a wide range of services, from personal care to nursing visits and even aged care and disability maintenance services around the home.
Outside of HCP, there are also government subsidies available for residential care in certain circumstances. Eligibility for funding and subsidies is generally means tested, and the level of funding available is determined by your care or support needs.
For those with the means to do so, you can also pay for additional services through private funding. Private aged care providers can offer more flexibility in service delivery and can provide additional services not covered by government programs.
Choosing the Right Aged Care Service
Choosing the right aged care service type can be overwhelming, but taking the time to understand your options will help you make an informed decision. Working with an experienced aged care provider can make the process much easier.
An expert can help you understand the different services available (including whether you need aged care or disability support, like a NDIS cleaning provider), guide you through the application process for government funding, and help you navigate the complexities of aged care to ensure that you make the right decision for yourself or your loved one.