When a partner moves into aged care, it can be one of the most challenging moments for older couples. Health concerns often lead to this transition, but the emotional and financial strain adds another layer of complexity. Here’s what you need to know about coping and managing the cost of aged care when you spouse moves into care.

Emotional Challenges When a Spouse Enters Aged Care

It’s common for one partner to require aged care before the other due to varying health conditions. If you’ve spent many years together, the thought of being separated can be overwhelming.

However, some retirement villages offer a mix of independent living and aged care, allowing couples to remain close, even if their care needs differ. If that’s not an option, look for aged care facilities near your home, so frequent visits are easier to manage. If there isn’t availability nearby, putting your partner on a waiting list may help when rooms open up.

Both partners may struggle emotionally with the separation, especially if you’ve been the primary caregiver. It’s important to remind yourself that moving your spouse into aged care is a necessary step for their well-being, not a failure on your part. Adjusting to this new life will take time.

Emotional Support for Caregivers

Family often plays a big role in supporting spouses left at home. Your children might help ease the transition, offering emotional support and practical help.

For those without family support, resources are available. Speak to your GP about emotional support services or contact organisations like Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) or Lifeline (13 11 14) if you need immediate assistance. It’s important to seek help to manage the stress and emotional challenges that arise during this time.

Financial Implications of Aged Care

When your spouse moves into aged care, an income and assets test will determine what financial assistance the government provides. without this assessment, you may have to pay the full cost of accommodation and care, which can be substantial.

Many couples worry about whether they’ll need to sell the family home. If one spouse remains living there, the home is usually exempt from the assets test. However, if you do decide to sell, the proceeds could be counted as an asset and affect the cost of aged care government benefits.

There are several ways to pay for aged care, including a lump sum refundable accommodation deposit (RAD) or daily accommodation payments (DAP). Some couples opt to rent out their home to cover daily payments, while others may consider a reverse mortgage or aged care loan.

Managing Financial Changes

When your financial situation changes, always notify Centrelink to avoid complications. For instance, a client who sold her family home but didn’t update Centrelink had her care fees unexpectedly increased. Keeping your financial details current with Centrelink helps prevent unexpected issues with care fees.

Selling the family home to pay for aged care is a significant decision. It’s highly recommended to consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any large financial changes.

Need more advice? Search Retirement Now: Aged Care for current news, advice and tips regarding your aged care options.

Disclaimer: The above contains general advice only. The contents have been prepared without taking account of your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should, before you make any decision regarding any information or strategies mentioned, consult your own financial advisor to consider whether that is appropriate having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.