Recognising that help is required and actively managing your own ability or that of a loved one, means you can maintain independence, stay at home longer, and continue to do the things you love. Investigating the types of home care service providers available in your local area is a good starting point for choosing the right home care services for you. Friends or family may also be able to recommend a local service provider if they have had an experience or heard good things.
My Aged Care also provides a list of accredited providers on their website. You can learn more at myagedcare.gov.au
Prepare a checklist of the services and supports you or your loved one are looking for. Speaking to the care provider to see if they can support you with your needs is important. Having a conversation will also help you decide if they listened to your story and could offer the right service solutions for your needs.
When comparing providers it is important to ask about the following:
Fees:
- Establishment and exit fees
- How much the provider charges for administration and case management fees
- The hourly rates for cleaning, personal care or other services you require
- The average percentage of government subsidy available for clients to spend
- Ask for an example of a monthly statement to see how clear it is and how it shows accrual of unspent funds
Staff:
- If service providers employ their own staff or use agency staff
Communication:
- Consistency of care workers
- How often are care plans reviewed
- When do care coordinators visit clients
Does the care provider offer more complex care services? You or your loved one needs to consider the potential longer term services that may be required if you want to stay in your home. By planning ahead, and considering the potential future services you may need will help you choose the best care provider for you. It also reduces the stress and energy of changing providers in the future.
Once you have a care provider in mind, it is important to meet one of the team members in person before you commit to a home care package. Let them know if you have any preferences, so they can do their best to match you with a team of carers that will ensure you continue to feel comfortable in your own home.
Anglicare’s professional and respectful carers are here to support you. We ensure we match you with the right support staff that will meet your requirements. We want you to feel comfortable and supported, so if you have any gender, special interests or cultural requirements, speak to our team and we’ll do our best to make sure they are met.
By calling us on 1300 610 610, we can support you through the process of applying for and organising home care services. We can assist you to register with My Aged Care for an Aged Care Assessment. This is the first step to receiving a home care package.
Once you have been visited by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), our Concierge team will work with you to understand how you want your life to look and the services you need to help you reach your goals.
You can contact our Concierge team for a free, confidential and no-obligation discussion by calling 1300 610 610 or online form.
