Download our quick reference aged care summary sheet here
Residential aged care offers social and nursing support to people with a wide range of interests and abilities 24hrs a day. From social outings and gatherings to end-of-life care, residential aged care offers permanent, round-the-clock care.
With older people enjoying more diverse activities than ever before, these homes are often modern, light-filled and well equipped. Long gone are the musty ‘nursing homes’ from past decades.
All Australian aged care homes are run by qualified health professionals and must meet government regulations on the facilities and the level of care they provide their residents.
Ways to stay
- Most people in an aged care home are permanent residents
- Some places also offer respite care for short-term stays (typically to relieve a family member or friend who is offering full-time care at home; maximum 63 days a year)
- Transition care may also be available for people moving from hospital back to their own home, but who aren’t quite up to independent living yet (maximum 84 days)
What can an aged care home provide?
Aged care homes offer you a certain level of care, covered by the fees you have agreed to pay. Some of the services are known as ‘hotel services’, which gives you a good idea of what to expect. Personal care is also included. Some residents need additional support, which may attract an extra fee.
What are the benefits of an aged care home?
While living in an aged care home may not have been something you envisioned for yourself or for your loved ones, there are some huge benefits to making the move that is all about making life easy. Help with personal care, medication, meal preparation, chores such as laundry and cleaning and access to 24hr care are just some of the benefits.
Decisions, decisions
The move into permanent residential aged care can be stressful. Often, it comes as a result of an accident or illness, and the urgent need to find a suitable home and secure a room can mean decisions are made quickly. It’s easy to feel swamped.
Here we’ve identified the most important things you need to know. From choosing and applying through to funding and subsidies, you’ll find the information you need to make well-informed decisions with confidence.
