Aged care homes
Aged care homes, also known as nursing homes, or long-term care facilities, provide accommodation and care services to residents who live in the facility. The level of care provided is dependent on the abilities of the individual and their independence. Individuals in aged care homes require more assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, food preparation, medication and mobility. As the health of resident's decline, the facility is equipped to adapt to their growing needs.
Types of Care:
The type of care required by individuals will vary greatly. There are options for care for individuals who are more independent or need minimal help, as well as for individuals who may need a moderate or high level of care.
Independent facilities - these facilities cater for individuals that can no longer live at home but still possess a great level of independence
Minimal – moderate care arrangements - this type of care caters to individuals who need a little more help with daily living tasks
High level care arrangements (such as dementia support) - this type of care suits individuals who are reliant on help for most daily living tasks and may be experiencing a form of dementia, disability or degenerative disorder.
Accessing Aged Care Homes
Eligibility for government subsidised care homes is determined by a face-to-face assessment based on current demand. To be eligible the individual must be incapable of living independently and includes both older persons and individuals with a disability, dementia or other special specific care needs.
These individuals must undergo an online eligibility assessment, as well as a questionnaire that requires a Medicare card. Following this the face-to-face assessment will be conducted and eligibility determined. Once an individual is deemed eligible, they may begin looking for an aged care home that best suits their current needs.
Cost
Government subsidised aged care homes are regulated by the Australian Government and receive independent accreditation from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ASQSC). These facilities often receive subsidies to make the care more affordable. Each facility sets their own prices however there are three types of costs typically associated with all aged care homes:
Basic daily fee (maximum of $52.25 per day)
Accommodation cost
Means-tested care fee (maximum of $259.15 per day)
Private aged care homes do not receive subsidies therefore making them slightly pricier than the alternative.
