My Aged Care is the starting point to access Australian Government-funded aged care services. The phone line and website can help older Australians, their families and carers to get the help and support they need. Here is a summary list of aged care services based on their website (myagedcare.gov.au)
Aged Care Services List: What services are available through my aged care?
- Homecare
- Short-term Care
- Aged Care Homes
Home Care
Home care is care that allows a person with special needs to stay in their home. It might be for people who are getting older (aging in place). It could also be for people who are chronically ill, recovering from surgery, or disabled. Home care services include:
Meals and other food services
Help to ensure you continue to eat well, for example:
- meal delivery
- assistance with food preparation
Personal care services
Help to maintain your personal hygiene and grooming, for example:
- bathing
- taking medication
- getting in and out of bed
Nursing care services
At-home help to treat and monitor those with medical conditions.
Allied health / therapy services
Help to maintain movement and mobility, for example:
- podiatry
- occupational therapy
- physiotherapy
Specialised support services
Help for people with a particular condition, e.g. poor vision, dementia
Domestic assistance
Help to keep your living space clean and livable, for example:
- general house cleaning
- clothes washing and ironing
- shopping
Home maintenance services
Help to keep your home and garden in a safe condition, for example:
- fixing uneven flooring
- installing a security light
- clearing the yard of debris
Home modification services
Help to increase or maintain your ability to move around your home, for example:
- grab rails
- ramps
- accessible bathroom redesign
Goods, equipment and assistive technology
Help with mobility, communication, reading, and personal care limitations, for example:
- robotic vacuum cleaners
- shower chairs
- walking frames
Assistance with care and housing
Linking to housing and care services for people experiencing homelessness.
Transport services
Help to get you out and about to appointments and community activities, for example:
- driver service
- travel vouchers and subsidies
Social support services
Help to remain social and take part in community life, for example:
- in-home social calls
- phone and internet communication services
- group social activities
Short-term Care
Respite care for the elderly is a short–term stay at a senior living community. It is often suggested for seniors who are recovering from a hospital visit or other health circumstances. It’s also available when a caregiver takes an extended vacation or for a senior living trial period. Short-term services include:
Aged Care Homes
Residential homes are generally used when a person becomes highly dependent on others for assistance with personal care and general daily tasks. Residential care homes are frequently termed as elderly care homes since many of the residents tend to be seniors who are finding independent living increasingly difficult.
Check your eligibility and apply for an assessment online, or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to see if you are eligible.
Sources:
- https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/types-care
- https://www.sunriseseniorliving.com/care-services/respite-care.aspx
- https://www.selecthealthcaregroup.com/spot-the-difference-residential-care-vs-nursing-care-news-28
