Aged care homes are a wonderful choice for older Australians who are unable to live independently in their own home any longer, and provide all the help and support you need to live your life well, coupled with the benefits of community and security. Before you can move in however, you’ll need to be assessed as eligible for aged care, and the type and level of care you require will need to be determined (you can find out more about the process of accessing aged care here).
Once this process is completed, you’ll need to begin the process of finding an aged care facility in which to live. This step isn’t hard – just visit the My Aged Care ‘Find a Provider’ tool here. But before you decide to move into an aged care facility, you need to find out the answers to these essential questions first.
What type of rooms are available?
Are the rooms modern and equipped with the latest facilities to make life easier as you age? How big are the rooms and how much space do you get? Also find out about any outside areas that you are able to use, and how much choice you get in your potential new home.
What fees will I need to pay?
Cost is a big consideration, and you’ll definitely need to know how much life in your aged care facility will cost. The amount you’ll actually need to pay will vary depending on your financial circumstances, and the Australian government also provides subsidies to support eligible individuals accessing aged care services. The level of government funding is determined by the individual’s care needs and financial situation.
If you are eligible, you will be expected to contribute to the cost of your care and accommodation if you can afford to do so. Fees are payable for every day that you live in your aged care home, and may include:
- A basic, daily fee that covers living costs such as meals, power and laundry. For some people, this is the only fee they need to pay.
- A means-tested care fee. Individuals may be required to contribute to the cost of their aged care services based on their financial capacity. This means-tested fee considers factors such as income, assets, and overall financial situation.
- Accommodation costs that cover your accommodation in the home. You may need to pay for some or all of these costs, and the Australian Government will pay the rest if you are only required to pay part of your costs. However, if your income and assets are below a certain amount, the Australian Government will pay all of your accommodation costs.
- Additional service fees. Some aged care facilities offer additional services, such as enhanced meals or additional recreational activities, for an extra fee. These fees are optional, and individuals can choose whether to access these additional services.
All required payments should be specified before you move in, so make sure you understand them completely before signing the contract. Know exactly what they cover – and don’t cover – so there are no surprises later.
To get a likely estimate of your fees, you can use the aged care homes Fee Estimator on the My Aged Care website here: www.myagedcare.gov.au/fee-estimator/residential-care/form.
Can I make changes to my room?
You’ll need to know just what changes and modifications you’re free to make to your room before moving in – or whether you’re limited in what you’re allowed to do. Can you bring your own furniture to make the room more personal and homey? Or do you prefer a room that’s already furnished? Can furniture be moved and positioned to better suit your needs?
What facilities are available?
Each aged care home comes with different and unique facilities, so find out what’s available before committing to a home. If a particular facility is important to you, make sure the home has it.
Can I arrange extra services?
Find out if you are able to arrange to have your own phone, the internet or pay TV installed in your room, or any other extra services that you’d like.
Are visitors welcome to stay with me?
Friends and family are a big part of our lives, and are usually welcome to visit with you and make use of the home’s facilities while they’re there. But check the home’s policy as to whether they are able to stay overnight, and also how long visitors are welcome to stay.
Can I see my own doctor?
Your doctor plays an important part in your health and wellbeing, as well as your peace of mind. Find out if you are able to continue to visit your own doctor (and how the facility can assist in making that happen) or whether you’ll need to change to a doctor used by the home. for many people, being able to continue to see their own trusted doctor is very important.
Are there any transport facilities on offer or nearby?
While most of your transport may be taken care of by the home, it’s wise to consider the availability of public transport options as well, as nearby transport will really help you maintain your independence for longer.
What type of security is there?
Having inbuilt security is a great asset of aged care living, but check exactly what level of security your potential facility offers. The home might come with gated entrances, secure parking, security cameras or security lighting.
What happens in an emergency?
Does your room come with emergency alarm or call button provisions? Is a smoke detector installed as standard? Will you have access to a fall alarm if you need it? Find out the process that occurs if a medical or personal emergency or accident happens.
What happens if my care needs change and I need more support?
Does the facility have the bandwidth to support you if your care needs change? Can you transition to a higher level of care easily? Check what’s on offer so you can plan for the future.
What happens if I have an issue or problem?
Issues are often inevitable when you live in a community of diverse people. Find out what happens if an issue arises, and the process you’ll need to take to resolve it.
Can I take a tour?
There’s only so much you can tell from online or brochure photos. Touring an aged care facility is the hands-down best way to get first-hand knowledge of the community and find out what life might really be like inside the home. As well, you’ll have a chance to ask as many questions as you like, speak to current residents, inspect facilities in person and explore the community as a whole. This will help you make an informed decision about whether this is somewhere you want to spend your golden years.
