Australian aged care has been in the spotlight for some time now. The results of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety will see many changes over the coming years. But, for now, let’s focus on the current aged care packages available within Australia.

Starting on a Home Care Package

Receiving an Australian Government funded Home Care Package is a lengthy process for many people. Firstly, you need to contact My Aged Care. My Aged Care are the first point of call for accessing government funded aged care services in Australia. They will arrange an initial assessment with the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). After your assessment, if eligible for services, you’ll receive a letter of approval for a home care package. It can take months on the waiting list until you are assigned a package.

Once you’ve been assigned a package, and you’ve entered into an agreement with a home care package provider, your needs may have already changed or increased since your initial assessment that you had way back with ACAT. While some of your care needs and goals may be met on the current package that you’re receiving, it’s essential to follow a few steps to initiate changes to your care plan if your care needs and goals have changed.

Do you need a review your Government Funded Australian Aged Care Services?

Getting home care package services started brings about a sense of relief and peace of mind. But if your circumstances have changed, you may feel stressed that your care needs are no longer being met.
It doesn’t have to be a sudden change, such as a hospital visit or an acute illness, although these things can happen. As you age, your care needs can change rapidly, or very gradually. While home care package providers will review your care plan at least annually, you can request a review at any time if your circumstances have changed, or you don’t feel that your needs are being met.

You may have had a hospital stay, or noticed that you’ve had a few falls over the last 6 months. You may be experiencing some memory loss, or you might have feelings of anxiety and depression. It could be that you’re having increased difficulty when it comes to dressing yourself, or preparing meals. Whatever the circumstances, it’s important that your forever changing needs are being met.

How to Get Support When Your Circumstances Have Changed

Firstly, speak with your home care package provider/ manager to arrange a review of your care plan. Upon review, they may determine that you require a reassessment of your current Australian Aged Care Home Care Package. Your home care package manager can arrange a new assessment with an assessor through My Aged Care if your circumstances have changed.

You’re also able to contact My Aged Care directly on 1800 200 422 to request a reassessment.

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