It's never too early or too late to talk about aged care.
Talking about getting some extra help doesn't mean you can't live an independent or active life.
Read about tips for having a conversation about aged care with a family member or friend here.
What help is available
You may be eligible to receive services such as:
personal care like help getting dressed
transport
modifications to your home, such as hand rails or ramps
nursing, physiotherapy and other care
meals and help with cooking
household jobs like cleaning or gardening
equipment like walking frames
social activities.
Short-term help
when you have had a setback and want to get your independence back
recovery from an accident or illness, including after a hospital stay
when you or your carer needs a break (respite care).
Care in an aged care home
If you find you need ongoing help with day-to-day tasks or health care, an aged care home lets you live in a supported environment where help is available 24 hours a day.
Who's eligible
You may be eligible for Australian Government funded aged care services if you’re an older person (usually 65+ or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) finding it harder to do the things you used to do. You will need to have a face-to-face assessment of your care needs to find out if you are eligible. Everyone who has an assessment through My Aged Care and is found to need services, is eligible to access services that:
may be partly or fully funded by the Australian Government; and
are regulated by the Australian Government.
If you’re not assessed as eligible, or are waiting for services, you can access privately funded services at any time, read more here.
Get an idea about costs
The Australian Government contributes to the cost of aged care services. You’re expected to contribute if you can afford to. Costs vary for different types of care and different service providers. There are no standard costs for aged care services. How much you pay depends on:
your financial situation
the number and types of services you receive
the service provider’s fees.
If you’re ready to access services, call My Aged Care to find out which type of aged care you may be assessed for. Read about costs for that type of care or program under Find and set up services.
If you’re going to be assessed for a Home Care Package, or care in an aged care home, it’s important to get a financial assessment from the Department of Human Services as soon as possible. This will help you to work out costs with service providers when you’re ready to find and set up your services.
Register to be assessed
You need to register and be assessed to access government funded aged care services. Find out more here.
Planning ahead?
Even if you don't need help today it doesn't hurt to plan. Find out what you can do now.