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  • Supporting Your Loved One’s Journey to Receive Support at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Supporting Your Loved One’s Journey to Receive Support at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is your loved one becoming more unsteady on their feet, forgetting to take medication, or having difficulty completing tasks around the home? If so, this may indicate that they might need some extra support at home. Making the transition to support at home can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can ensure your loved one receives the care they need with minimal stress.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the key steps to assist your loved one in accessing aged care services. If they are looking to increase their current services, we recommend contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for re-assessment. If your loved one isn’t yet receiving support at home, follow these simple steps to help them get the care they need.

1. Understand the funding options available for home care

When exploring home care options, it’s important to be aware of the financial support available. The Australian Government offers subsidies to make aged care services more accessible through two key programs: the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP). To find out if your loved one is eligible for either of these programs, they will need to undergo an assessment with My Aged Care. 

2. Help your loved one create a list of what they might need help with

Before your loved one undergoes an assessment for a Home Care Package (HCP), we suggest helping them create a list of potential topics that may be discussed during this process. This will help both of you feel more prepared and ensure that important details aren’t overlooked. The list can cover aspects such as their medical history, daily or weekly activities that they might be struggling with, cognitive function (including memory issues or changes in decision-making), their support network, vision and hearing, and pain management. 

3. Check your loved one’s eligibility for an assessment

Before applying for support, it’s important to confirm your loved one’s eligibility. We recommend helping them complete the Assessment Eligibility Checker on the My Aged Care website – a quick questionnaire that should take just 1-2 minutes to fill out.  

4. Apply for the assessment on your loved one’s behalf

If the eligibility checker indicates that your loved one qualifies for an assessment, you can either assist them in applying online or apply on their behalf. Ensure they have their Medicare card nearby and set aside 10-15 minutes for the application process. Alternatively, they can apply over the phone by calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. 

 5. Support your loved one during the ACAT assessment

After the application is submitted, your loved one will be contacted by an assessor to schedule an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment. This may take place in person, over the phone, or via video call. During the assessment, the assessor will evaluate your loved one’s needs, recommend the appropriate services, and inform them of any additional support options they may be eligible for. To assist your loved one during this stage, we recommend being present during the assessment and bringing a list of areas where your loved one may need help.

6. Assist in finding the right service provider

Once your loved one has been approved for a Home Care Package (HCP) or the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), the next step is finding a provider that suits their needs. This can take some time, but it’s crucial to find a provider that meets your loved one’s specific requirements. We recommend helping them create a list of services they require, asking providers about their pricing, services and availability, and arranging to meet with potential providers before committing. For additional tips on selecting the right provider, check out our detailed article here. 

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to helping your loved one access the right Support at Home services. The transition may feel complex at first, but with the right guidance and resources, it can be a smooth and positive experience for both you and your loved one. 

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  • Meet Lorna, one of our Diversional Therapists

Meet Lorna, one of our Diversional Therapists

At Anglicare Southern Queensland, we’re proud to have passionate staff who truly make a difference every day. Meet one of our incredible Diversional Therapists, Lorna, who has been helping residents live fuller, more meaningful lives since 2017.

Lorna’s journey to Aged Care

“I’ve always wanted to work in aged care,” she shares. “I actually started out in nursing, but after a car accident, I was encouraged to explore a different path.”

After speaking with a career counsellor, she considered studying Health Science (Leisure and Health), but the course was online and interstate. Instead, she took a different path and pursued counselling. It was during her placement at a community centre that everything clicked into place.

“I was working with an aged care respite program, and it reminded me why I wanted to be in this field. One of the clients was so scared about moving into aged care, and I was devastated. But later, I saw her again — and she was thriving. She loved the activities and felt right at home.”

That moment solidified her passion: to help people feel safe, welcomed, and engaged when they transition into aged care.

Creating programs that spark joy and connection

From bingo to visits from therapy animals (even horses!), no two days look the same. Residents are actively involved in shaping the monthly activity calendar — offering feedback and making suggestions.

“Craft isn’t my strong suit,” she laughs, “but that’s where my team shines.”

Activities are tailored to be meaningful and inclusive. Occupational tasks give residents purpose, while cooking sessions allow them to share their skills. Animal therapy lifts spirits. Creative outlets like paint-and-sip sessions reveal hidden talents — one resident always insists, “I’m not an artist,” yet creates beautiful art each time. And of course, there’s bingo — fun, a bit competitive, and surprisingly therapeutic!

“Bingo helps with number recognition, encourages movement, and brings out so much joy. Honestly, there’s not much we wouldn’t do for a piece of chocolate!”

Ensuring meaningful engagement

Measuring the success of each activity comes down to simple but powerful indicators: smiles, laughter, engagement, and conversation.

“We’re always observing — are they participating? Interacting? Enjoying themselves? And we always ask for feedback.”

Inclusion is also key. For residents with dementia or mobility challenges, adaptations are made. Whether it’s 1-on-1 support or thoughtful seating arrangements, the goal is always the same: ensure everyone can participate meaningfully.

Working together for holistic care

Collaboration is at the heart of her approach. Constant communication between lifestyle staff, clinical teams, and families ensures that each resident’s interests, needs, and history are woven into their care.

“We are in in constant contact between staff, residents and family. We communicate with the staff to ensure residents are provided with the opportunity to attend activities when unable to bring themselves along.”

“When we need the medical history from a client, if we are unable to get this from the resident, we will speak to the family. We do behaviour management with the clinical team for a holistic environment.”

Lifelong learning and new ideas

Staying current is important. Lorna attends annual ARTA (Australian Recreational Therapy Association) conferences, engages with dementia forums, and makes the most of training and education opportunities across the sector.

One particularly powerful initiative? “We recently worked with residents to write a book filled with stories from their lives. We even held a book launch with our Kirami Community. It was beautiful and really brought everyone together.”

Moments that matter

Of all the memories, one stands out vividly for Lorna:

“It was Christmas. A resident who had been with us only a short time was entering palliative care. She was sad she couldn’t come out to hear the carols. So I brought the music to her and we sang together in her room.”

“She looked at me and said, ‘This has been the best Christmas ever.’ I still get teary thinking about it.”

To all of our Diversional Therapists — thank you for your compassion, creativity, and the quality care you provide to our clients and residents.

Interested in joining the team as a Diversional Therapist? Take a look at our current vacancies here. 

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  • Cherice’s Story

Cherice's Story

Adequate housing is a fundamental human right. Quality housing is proven to have positive psychological and psychosocial impacts as well as enhancing independence and self-agency. Anglicare believes that every young person deserves to come home to a positive living environment. An environment where they know they’re cared for and where they feel safe and supported.   

Recent data shows that nearly a quarter of Australians experiencing homelessness are aged between 12 and 24. Young people can become homeless for any number of reasons. They include family breakdown, fleeing domestic violence, mental health issues, or housing affordability.  

Cherice’s experience with homelessness 

When Cherice was 16, she became homeless. She was forced to move out of her father’s house. Her mother was incarcerated soon after, leaving her on her own, without support and trying to juggle her education and work. At the time, Cherice was at school and working two jobs but was unable to afford rent.     

With nowhere else to go, Cherice turned to Anglicare Southern Queensland’s Youth Homelessness Service at Mount Gravatt and was provided with emergency accommodation and 24-hour access to youth workers who were able to equip her with practical skills and emotional support.  

With some help from the Anglicare team, Cherice was able to continue working two jobs and focus on completing her schooling.  

Like most young people in her situation, Cherice was experiencing some mental health challenges.  

“At times, I didn’t know whether I’d get through it. But I’m a pretty task focused person. So, with some help from Anglicare and my school reconnect worker, I just kept putting one foot in front of the other,” she explained. 

After some time in emergency accommodation, Cherice moved into our transitional accommodation home in Carina Heights. Her support team continued to help her with completing schooling and she began studying community service work.  

During her time in transitional accommodation, Cherice was hospitalised for some mental health challenges that she was experiencing. She explained that the care she experienced from the hospital’s nursing team was what inspired her to change her study pathway and follow a nursing degree.  

Cherice is now a registered nurse in a major southeast Queensland hospital and lives independently with her dog, Sophie. “I now live in a small, two-bedroom unit and am very independent and love living by myself…I’m really loving life and I’m very content,” she said. 

A voice for change 

Although it’s been some years since Cherice was supported through our services to lead the life she lives today, Cherice continues to advocate for our services and other young people who continue to experience housing challenges. 

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Anglicare. Without their support and guidance, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to study, to buy a car, to get braces, to have my own unit. All of the things that I wanted to do but couldn’t without their support.” 

We know that with stable housing and the right support network, young people can positively change their life trajectory. Giving them opportunities for employment, education, and long-term housing.   

Watch Cherice’s Story

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  • Connecting Generations Through Play

Connecting Generations Through Play

In the last few years, staff across our Family and Wellbeing and Aged Care Services have been connecting generations of people through play; bringing joy and excitement to staff, clients and the broader community. 

In 2022, following a period of decreased client engagement in our Maryborough playgroups, our Maryborough Family and Wellbeing team were determined to find a way to help re-engage clients.  

With the help of her team and the Fraser Coast community Mary, the Service Coordinator of the Gympie and Fraser Coast Family and Wellbeing Services, instigated a range of innovative initiatives to bring her staff, clients and the community together. 

Leading a collaborative effort 

After engaging with staff, clients, local Anglican parishes, the Fraser Coast Family Day Care and leaders from our Kirami Residential Aged Care Home, Mary identified a gap in the market – a lack of intergenerational playgroups. 

In the last few years, intergenerational playgroups have been increasing in popularity and numerous studies have identified that they can improve the social and developmental needs and mental wellbeing of participants.  

In 2023, Mary and her Maryborough team partnered with the Fraser Coast Family Day Care to bring children, parents and educators into our residential aged care home (Kirami) in Hervey Bay.  

The playgroups consist of a range of interactive activities that have been influential in increasing the social confidence and development of children and supporting the cognitive memories of residents. Thus, allowing residents to reminisce on their own childhood and raising their children. Another example of how Mary is committed to improving connection and togetherness is through promoting teamwork and collaboration amongst her staff.  

The program brings happiness to all and is, “about connecting children to older people and the older people back to the children,” explains Mary. “The community benefits when we connect our youngest generation with our oldest generation.”   

Not only are the children and residents benefiting from this initiative, but so is Mary’s team. Mary has shared that this program has helped to build team morale and partnerships within the community; thus, supporting them to show up for and deliver excellent results for the children and families they work with in Maryborough and Hervey Bay. 

Kirami Intergenerational Playgroup in Action

Learn more about the Kirami Intergenerational Playgroup here.

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  • Client Centred Counselling

Client Centred Counselling

Anglicare Southern Queensland offers client-centred counselling to support people through a range of challenges. The counselling programs we offer include alcohol and other drug programs, family and relationship counselling and domestic and family violence counselling. Our counsellors work in a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental way. 

Our Living Without Violence Court Program is a behaviour change program. It’s designed for men who have used violence and abuse against their partners, children, and/or family members. It assists them with ceasing their use of abusive, controlling and violent behaviours. Thus, encouraging them to create safety, respect and partnerships in their current or future relationships. 

Mark’s story 

Mark, one of our counsellors, provides court support as an initiative of this program. In his role he provides brief intervention, information, education and referrals within the Brisbane Domestic and Family Violence Court.  

In an institution that isn’t typically welcoming to men who have used family and domestic violence against their loved ones, Mark has been commended on his ability to quickly build trust with his clients. However, he never minimises their actions and keeps them accountable to their behaviours. 

When speaking about this court support role, one of his colleagues said, “In this style of therapy, it’s about allowing for genuine warmth and rapport building. This facilitates an environment for effective change to take place.”  

Since starting with Anglicare in 2011, Mark has counselled many individuals. Including those across our alcohol and other drug and domestic and family violence programs. Particularly within the court support space. Clients from these programs often find seeking support to be daunting. This is based on how they’ve been perceived and dealt with by the wider public. Though, through Mark’s practice and professionalism, many have been able to use his support and guidance to make meaningful changes in their lives and relationships. 

Like all our counsellors, Mark provides client-centred care. Though, he continuously goes above and beyond in showing up for his clients. He meets their needs in a space and manner that is comfortable for them.  

Client-centred care is about being flexible to support clients achieve their goals in ways that work for them. Whether that’s talking to clients in a courtroom or office setting or meeting them at a picnic table in a nearby park where they don’t feel confined within a formal setting.  

Mark exceeds what is required of his role to connect with and help his clients to make meaningful change for their future. His ability to hold clients accountable to their actions, while building rapport to improve their behaviours and relationships exemplifies his caring and professional nature.  

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  • Partnerships of care

Partnerships of care

The Nalingu Respite Centre aim to build stronger community bonds by partnering with local organiastions. There are many ways in which Nalingu do so, including working with Bunnings Virginia to bring engaging craft activities. Together, they explore paint pouring on canvases and pots, sand art, mosaics, and even create beautiful hanging baskets for plants. These hands-on projects allow the residents to express their creativity on functional items that can be proudly used or given as thoughtful gifts. 

Valerie, a participant, shared, “I’ve made great friends here,” highlighting the positive social connections that can be built during these craft sessions. For the residents, these activities offer more than just creative expression—they foster a sense of belonging and accomplishment. 

Sandy, from Bunnings, also finds deep fulfillment in these interactions. “Coming out to the community really enriches my working life, and I get a whole lot out of it. When I’m out here, I become a part of their group. We might be coming out here for part of our jobs, but it does become a part of your heart as well,” Sandy said. This partnership not only benefits the residents but also strengthens the bonds between the community and Nalingu Respite Centre, creating a shared space of creativity, connection, and mutual respect. 

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  • Biography Program

Biography Program

At Anglicare Southern Queensland, we believe every life is made up of stories worth sharing. That’s why we have a program dedicated to helping residents compile their favourite memories and milestones in one place.  

Coordinated through our Spiritual and Pastoral Care team, our Biography Program creates an opportunity for residents to document their unique experiences from childhood memories to life-changing moments. Through one-on-one sessions with volunteers, residents have a personalised biography that their families can treasure for years to come. 

Not only does the program create an opportunity to capture cherished memories, but it initiates the perfect environment for new connections to be made.  

“The biography is a wonderful outcome of the project, but I think the more important part is the process. By listening to and reflecting on the story of their lives, we are valuing the individual and building a deep connection.” – Felicity Dougherty, Spiritual and Pastoral Care Coordinator Gold Coast 

We’re honoured to help preserve these stories and celebrate the incredible lives of our residents.  

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  • Five signs it’s time to talk about residential aged care

Five signs it’s time to talk about residential aged care

If you’re supporting an older parent, grandparent or loved one, you might not be sure when it’s the right time to start talking about residential aged care. You may have noticed that they seem to need a bit more help these days, but unsure whether you’re ready to suggest the next step.

Here are some common signs that indicate home care may no longer be the best option. Make time to connect with your loved one; if you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important that you consider starting the conversation.

Sign 1: Carer stress

There can be a lot of pressure with caring for a parent or loved one, even if you have the help of a home care provider. If it’s impacting your own health and wellbeing, then it might be time to think about services beyond support in the home. You might find that you’re not getting enough sleep, or your own health is suffering from helping physically.

Sign 2: An increase in emergency episodes

An increase in the number of ‘emergency episodes’ such as falls, medications mishaps, hospital admissions, or GP visits, or a greater frequency of these instances over a short period, can indicate that your loved one’s mobility or cognitive skills are declining. If this is the case, it’s important to discuss their care options with them before a serious incident or injury occurs.

Sign 3: Increased use of respite care

If you are relying on respite care more than you used to, it may be because their needs are becoming unmanageable in the home, even with the support of home care services.

Sign 4: Noticeable changes in behaviour

If your loved one is living with a condition that impacts cognitive abilities such as dementia, their behaviour can change substantially over time.

It may be harder to notice these changes if your loved one lives alone, but there are some key signs to watch out for, that may indicate more intensive care is required, such as:

  • Regular medication mishaps – they may be forgetting to take medicine or taking the wrong dose, even when aided by regular nurse visits.
  • Signs of social isolation – a decline in mobility, hearing, sight or other abilities can impact motivation to be social with others.
  • Poor food hygiene – perishable food such as meat may be left out or eaten after its expiry date.
  • Weight loss due to a reduced appetite.
  • Difficulty maintaining or declining interest in personal hygiene or care.
  • An increasingly messy or unclean home.
  • Increased confusion and disorientation.
  • Care is no longer welcome – your loved one may have a change in attitude towards receiving assistance.

It’s important to remember that changes in behaviour may be gradual, so looking out for these signs will help you consider if residential aged care or another option, such as respite or more intensive care, may be the best outcome.

Sign 5: A Home Care Package (HCP) no longer meets their needs

When a Level 4 Home Care Package (the highest level) isn’t covering your loved one’s needs, and if they’re unable to privately pay for the extra care they require at home, it’s a good idea to start talking about their residential aged care options.

Access our services

We’re here for you. Submit this form or call us to access an Anglicare service or program. Our team is available between 7am and 5pm weekdays on 1300 610 610.

Enquire Now or Book a Tour

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  • Residential aged care costs, fees, and government assistance

Residential aged care costs, fees, and government assistance

Let’s look at the fees, costs, and government assistance available to help you transition to a residential aged care home of your choice.

Everyone’s care requirements and financial situation are different, so what and how you end up paying may be different for other residents.

Costs associated with living in a residential aged care home

Each aged care home sets its own prices up to a maximum limit set by the Commonwealth Government, so costs will vary between homes. How much you pay depends on the aged care home that you choose, and a ‘means test’ that will look at your income and assets.

The cost for residential aged care is divided into three fees

  • Basic daily living fee – living expenses such as meals, cleaning, facilities management, and laundry.
  • Accommodation cost – a contribution of full payment of your room.
  • Means-tested care fee – the cost to meet your healthcare needs.

Basic daily fee

When you’re a resident in an aged care home, you are asked to pay a daily fee as a contribution toward the cost of care and living expenses. This includes meals, cleaning, facilities management and laundry.
The daily fee also contributes to the cost of personal care support for assistance with things like dressing and toileting, therapy, some medical services, care and medical consumables, and mobility aid.
This fee is equivalent to 85% of the annual single basic Age Pension and is adjusted in March and September at the same time as the Age Pension.

Accommodation cost

The accommodation charge of your room is based on a means assessment and depends on the value of your assets and income when you enter care.

As a general guide

If you have income below $27,840 and assets below $50,500, the Australian Government will pay your accommodation costs.
If you need to pay for part of your accommodation, due to higher income and assets, the Australian Government will pay the remaining costs.
Whether you have to pay toward your accommodation or not, everyone entering an aged care home needs to agree on a room price in writing with their aged care home.

Means tested care fee

Depending on your financial situation, you may be required to pay the costs of your individual care needs. You can get an idea of what you may have to pay by using the My Aged Care residential care fee estimator.
There are annual and lifetime caps on means tested care fees. These are set by the Commonwealth Government.
Once you reach your annual cap, your means tested care fee is reduced to zero. You will start paying the fee again on the next anniversary of the date you entered residential aged care.

Optional services that incur a fee 

Aged care homes may also offer additional services that incur an additional service fee. These may include things like hairdressing or access to paid TV. You only need to pay for the services that you use, and it’s up to you to decide what additional services you would like.
Additional, optional, services are offered by some aged care homes for an extra cost. The fees for these services are not covered by a government subsidy. If you agree to pay these optional fees for the services, you will need to pay this amount yourself. There are no extra service costs at Anglicare Southern Queensland residential aged care homes, however, we can help facilitate and accommodate your needs.

We are here to help you through the process.

By calling us on 1300 610 610, we can support you in finding the right level of care for your loved one. We understand that there’s a lot to consider when you move into a residential aged care community. We would love to show you around an Anglicare Southern Queensland Residential Aged Care Home near you. Contact 1300 610 610 or email [email protected] to arrange a tour.

Access our services

We’re here for you. Submit this form or call us to access an Anglicare service or program. Our team is available between 7am and 5pm weekdays on 1300 610 610.

Enquire Now or Book a Tour

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  • Finding the right aged care home for you

Finding the right aged care home for you

You, or a loved one, may have received approval from the Aged Care Assessment Team to start looking for an aged care home, or perhaps you’re looking into your options now for when the time comes that you need to transition into a home.

We understand there’s a lot to consider, so here’s our guide to choosing the right residential aged care home for you.

Browse your options

With so many homes available, finding the right one for you can be tricky. The ‘Find a provider’ tool on the My Aged Care website is a good starting point to narrow down your choices.

Some of the things to consider when looking around include:

  • Are you looking for a single or shared room?
  • Is there a certain cultural or religious environment you’d prefer?
  • Is there a language other than English that you feel more comfortable speaking?
  • Do you require specialised support due to medical or social circumstances?
  • Is there availability at this home currently?

Visiting the website of a provider you’re interested in is also a great way to better understand their offerings.

Look for experience

When choosing a residential aged care provider, it’s important to look for experience. Years of service, consistency of high-quality and holistic care, and a deep understanding of the needs of the people they serve are hallmarks of a trustworthy provider.

Anglicare Southern Queensland has been supporting Queenslanders for more than 150 years. With a long history in nursing and clinical care, we’re proud to, again, have been voted Australia’s most trusted brand in residential aged care.

Deciding whether it’s the right fit for you

How do you know what to look for when it comes to choosing the right home for you?

Seeing the home and meeting the staff, in person, is always the best way to know what living there could be like.

When you’re ready to tour the home, be prepared with a list of questions you’d like to ask. My Aged Care provides a list of questions to get you started, but have a think about what is important to you and what else you’d like to know about your potential provider.

If you can, bring a friend or family member with you for support and a second opinion. If you’re not sure about something, it’s okay to ask more questions and take your time to really consider your options.

Tour checklist

We all have individual needs and different homes may be able to cater to them better than others.

Prepare a checklist of the services you, or your loved one, needs. Think honestly about what you’re struggling with and speak to providers to see if they offer the right service solutions for your needs.

When you’re on the tour of the home, here are some things to consider:

  • Does your guide greet residents along the way by name?
  • Do the residents look happy and engaged? Do the staff?
  • Are the chairs in the common areas comfortable? What kind of entertainment is offered in the living spaces (television, the day’s newspapers, magazines, board games, puzzles) – and do they interest you?
  • Are the rooms and common areas clean and well-maintained?
  • Are all the meals cooked fresh on-site?
  • What nursing, allied health, other services are on-site and how often are they available?
  • Are the lawns and gardens well-maintained? Are there outdoor areas where you can relax?
  • What are the visiting hours like for my family and friends?
  • Are there any set meal arrangements in place (meal-times, seating, guests, dietary requirements, alcohol)?
  • Are there on-site activities?
  • Are day trips or outings on offer?
  • Is there on-site transport available for trips to visit the shopping centre or friends, for example?
  • What additional costs are involved?

​​​​

Make an application

Once a suitable vacancy becomes available, you’ll be contacted by the aged care home. Once the home confirms your current aged care approval details (including financial arrangements) and reviews your care and service needs, you may be offered a place at the home.

We are here to help you through the process

We understand that there’s a lot to consider when you move into a residential aged care community. We would love to show you around an Anglicare Southern Queensland. Residential Aged Care Home near you. Contact 1300 610 610 or email [email protected] to arrange a tour.

Access our services

We’re here for you. Submit this form or call us to access an Anglicare service or program. Our team is available between 7am and 5pm weekdays on 1300 610 610.

Enquire Now or Book a Tour

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