Home Care Packages or In-Home Care are services designed to provide older Australians with the support they need to live independently in their own homes. It’s all about enabling those above 65 to live safely and comfortably in familiar surroundings.
It’s the preferred option for most people and their families. If you’re a recipient of Home Care support, you don’t have to travel anywhere or get dressed up to leave the house! A carer will travel to you and provide you with the care and support you need in your own home.
Let’s understand more about the different types of home care services available to you in Australia.
What are the different types of Home Care?
Depending on a person’s needs, a range of Home Care options are available. However, they all aim to help those receiving care to live happier and more independently in the comfort of their own home. Following are the different types of Home Care available to you.
1. Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme is an entry-level home help program subsidised by the government to support older people who need some help with daily tasks to live independently at home. It offers a list of services you can be funded for, from domestic support such as cleaning to community programs.
2. Support at Home Packages (SAH) Previously Home Care Packages
Support at Home packages are government-subsidised packages that provide ongoing support for older people who wish to stay at home. They come in eight classification levels, from basic care needs (Classification 1) to high care needs (Classification 8). The services can include Clinical Care, Independence and Everyday Living . They are Consumer Directed which means you choose the types of supports you need.
3. Private Care
Not every older Australian qualifies for government assistance or might find that the available subsidies don’t cover all their needs. In these cases, private care is an option, which is entirely funded by the individual or their family. You don’t need to apply for private care through the government and can just pay as you need.
4. Respite Care
Respite care is short-term care that is designed to give caregivers a break. It can be provided in the person’s home or in an Aged Care Home or what’s often referred to as a Nursing Home.
5. End-of-Life Care
Palliative Care is specialised care for individuals with terminal illnesses. The goal is to provide relief from the symptoms and stress of the illness and improve the quality of life for both the patient and the family.
6. DVA Home Care
The Department of Veteran’s Affairs or DVA, provides support with DVA home assistance for those who qualify and are assessed through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
Is Home Care a Consumer Directed Care?
Yes! The Australian Home Care system, specifically Support at Home Packages works on a Consumer Directed Care model which is designed to give you more choice and flexibility. Under this model, Home Care providers of Support at Home Packages are required to:
- have conversations about your needs and goals.
- co-produce Care Plans with you
- provide greater transparency about what funding is available to you and how your funds are spent
. - agree upon the level of involvement they will have in managing your Package, and
- conduct ongoing monitoring and a formal reassessment to ensure that the package continues to be appropriate for you.
If you want to know more about Consumer Directed Care, and how the different care providers operate, give us a call and we’d be happy to help.
Who Pays for Home care in Australia?
In Australia, Home Care is funded through a combination of government subsidies (for eligible individuals) and private payments by individuals or their families. The government provides financial assistance through programs like the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and the Support at Home program. Those who don’t qualify for subsidies, or need additional services, cover the costs privately.
Difference between Home Care Packages and Residential Aged Care?
Home Care and Residential Aged Care are both designed to support older Australians but in different environments and capacities. Home Care provides tailored services in an individual’s own home, assisting with specific needs to help them live independently. It’s ideal for those requiring periodic assistance. On the other hand, Residential Aged Care involves moving into a specialised facility offering comprehensive, round-the-clock care. It’s designed for those with complex care needs. The choice between them depends on the individual’s care requirements, desire for independence, and personal preferences.
What Home Care services can I access with my Home Care package?
You can access a range of Home Care services that aim to ensure you can stay safely and happily in your own home for as long as possible. The following are some popular options for both Support at Home Package recipients and those paying privately.
Supports include:
- personal care such as assistance getting dressed.
- transport to shops, medical appointments, and social activities
- simple modifications to your home, including installation of handrails and ramps
. - nursing and physiotherapy
- assistance taking medication
. - preparing and serving meals
- household jobs such as cleaning and garden maintenance
- provision of mobility equipment such as walking frames
- linking with local community groups and social activities.
Need Help Finding a Support at Home or Home Care package Provider?
Finding a provider that is right for you is not always an easy process. There are over 900 Home Care providers in Australia and all of them have different services, styles, pricing and value offerings.
CareAbout is Australia’s leading Home Care placement service. We’ve helped thousands of families choose the right Home Care provider for their needs and we would love to help you.
In order to choose one, you first need to know what you want from your Home Care. It can be helpful to write a wish list, or to think about a set of goals you’d like to achieve. CareAbout’s Experts can help you do this if you’re not sure where to start.
Once you understand what it is you want from a Home Care provider, CareAbout can help you find a provider that meets your needs, at no cost to you.
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