Process Required to Move into Aged Care

Moving into aged care in Australia involves several steps designed to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate level of care and support. The process can be complex, but understanding each stage can help ease the transition and ensure that all necessary requirements are met. Here is a detailed outline of the steps involved:

1. Assessment and Approval

1. Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) Assessment:

   • Contact My Aged Care, either online or by phone, to request an assessment.

   • An assessor from the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit the individual to evaluate their health, care needs, and living situation.

   • The assessment will determine the type and level of care required and whether the individual is eligible for government-funded aged care services.

2. Approval:

   • If eligible, the ACAT will provide an approval letter detailing the types of aged care services the individual can access, such as residential care, respite care, or home care packages.

   • This approval is valid for 12 months, during which time the individual can arrange for care services.

2. Research and Selection of Aged Care Facilities

1. Identify Suitable Facilities:

   • Use the My Aged Care website or speak with advisors to find aged care facilities in the desired location.

   • Consider factors such as the quality of care, services offered, cost, location, and available amenities.

2. Visit Facilities:

   • Schedule visits to potential aged care homes to tour the facilities, meet staff, and observe the environment.

   • Prepare a list of questions to ask during visits, covering topics like staff-to-resident ratios, activities, meal plans, and medical support.

3. Compare and Choose:

   • Compare the options based on personal preferences, care needs, and budget.

   • Select the most suitable facility and confirm availability.

3. Financial Arrangements

1. Understand Costs:

   • Aged care costs in Australia can include a basic daily fee, a means-tested care fee, accommodation costs, and additional service fees for extra amenities.

   • Use the My Aged Care fee estimator tool to get an idea of the potential costs involved.

2. Arrange Payment:

   • Discuss payment options with the chosen aged care facility.

   • Consider seeking financial advice to manage costs effectively, including options for using superannuation, savings, or selling assets.

4. Admission Process

1. Submit Application:

   • Complete the application forms provided by the aged care facility.

   • Provide all necessary documentation, including the ACAT approval letter, medical information, and financial details.

2. Acceptance and Agreement:

   • Once the application is accepted, review and sign the resident agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of residency, fees, and services provided.

3. Prepare for the Move:

   • Arrange the logistics of the move, including packing personal belongings, organizing transportation, and notifying relevant parties (e.g., healthcare providers, family members).

5. Settling In

1. Orientation:

   • Upon arrival, the aged care facility will provide an orientation to help the new resident familiarize themselves with the surroundings, meet staff, and understand daily routines.

2. Care Plan Development:

   • Work with the facility’s care team to develop a personalized care plan that addresses the individual’s specific needs and preferences.

3. Ongoing Communication:

   • Maintain open communication with the care team to monitor the resident’s well-being and address any concerns or changes in care needs.

Conclusion

Moving into aged care in Australia involves a comprehensive process that ensures individuals receive the appropriate care and support in a suitable environment. By following these steps—assessment and approval, research and selection of facilities, financial arrangements, admission, and settling in—families can navigate the transition smoothly and ensure their loved ones are well cared for.

Informed decision making