Advertising feature
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Aged care can be an overwhelming and emotional journey.
The aged care system in Australia is complex and at times difficult to navigate; further complicating what is already a challenging time for many families.
However, for families on the Mid-North Coast, it is important to know that help is only a phone call away.
The friendly staff at Bundaleer Care Services in Wauchope are able to help you make sense of your aged care options and are ready to support you and your family through this challenging time.
In practical terms, up until recently, we have had an average of 40,000 Australians’ turning 65 every year.
Today that number is closer to 140,000 and this is a trend that is set to continue for the next 15 years.
Now, more than ever it is critical to ensure that all Australians know what aged care options are available for them, as well as what entitlements or subsidies they may be eligible for.
A recent study carried out by National Seniors Australia revealed that an alarming 70% of Baby Boomers have never looked at the Australian Government’s “My Aged Care” website, (a service designed to provide information to those seeking access to Aged Care).
An incredible 85% had never phoned the “My Aged Care” helpline looking for assistance.
Possibly this is because people connect the idea of aged care with an old-fashioned “Nursing Home” and that’s not the solution that they are looking for.
In 2018, aged care refers to a ‘continuum of care’ service model, where care and support plans are tailored to every individual based on their specific needs – whether at home or in residential care - and as individual care needs change, care levels change with them.
Gareth Norman, CEO of Bundaleer says that nowadays most older Australians are keen to live independently in their family home for as long as possible.
With different service choices, including Home and Community Care, Residential Aged Care, Veterans Care available through the Australian Governments’ Aged Care System, it is possible to find the perfect Government subsidised program for every eligible individual.
“I implore all Australians with elderly family members to spend some time on MyAgedCare.gov.au because it really is the starting point to access Australian Government funded aged care services.
This is where you will discover the different types of aged care services available, your personal eligibility for these services, locate service providers in your area, be wait-listed for a Home Care Package and most importantly register to have an appointment (free of charge) with your local Aged Care Assessment Team who will assess your physical, psychological, medical and social care needs.
This feature is sponsored by
All Australians with elderly family members should spend some time on MyAgedCare.gov.au because it really is the starting point to access Australian Government funded aged care services.
- Gareth Norman, CEO of Bundaleer
This will determine the level of care you require and is a compulsory part of the eligibility process.
During your assessment, you may discover that you are eligible to receive services including:
- Help at home which could include personal care (like help with showering and dressing), transport, modifications to your home (such as the installation of handrails or ramps), clinical nursing, physiotherapy and other allied health care, meals and help with cooking, household chores like cleaning or gardening, the supply of aids equipment (like walking frames) and connection with social activities at home and in the community.
- Short-term help when you have had a setback and want to get your independence back, recovery from an accident or illness, maybe after a hospital stay, or when you or your carer need 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 support is available 24 hours a day.
Whilst the Australian Government does meet the costs for the majority of aged care in Australia, as with all government-funded services, it is expected that you will contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford to do so, depending on your individual financial situation.
If you’re seeking assistance through a Home Care Package, or full-time care and support in an Aged Care Home, it’s important to apply for a financial assessment from the Department of Human Services online.
This will help you to have all the necessary information when you’re ready to find and set up your services.
At Bundaleer we have developed a handy “5 Steps” guide to help you navigate the aged care system.
Our friendly team are committed to helping you and your family understand the different types of care available, as well as the associated costs so that you can you make an informed choice.
If you’re ready to access services or are after more detailed information on the aged care process, head to bundaleer.org.au.
Or if you would prefer, call us on 6585 2811 and make an appointment to come and see us at 142a Cameron Street, Wauchope and we can discuss how we can help make your aged care journey easier for you and your family.
We can’t wait to meet you.