A conversation today could make a big difference tomorrow.

Support at Home funding is designed to help older people stay safe, independent and living well at home.

But sometimes available funding goes unused because people aren’t sure what support is available, whether they need it, or what it might cost.

If you receive Support at Home funding, or you help care for or support someone who does, now could be a good time to take another look at their needs and the support available to them.

Did you know?

Support at Home funding for ongoing services is provided through quarterly budgets, and there are limits on how much unused funding can carry over into the next quarter.

So, rather than simply holding on to available funding, it is worth having a conversation about whether there are approved supports that could make everyday life safer, easier, or more comfortable.

Making the most of funding doesn’t mean spending for the sake of it.

It means making sure the available support is used where it can genuinely make a difference.

Have you noticed something has changed?

Sometimes family members, friends and carers notice changes before the person receiving support thinks to mention them.

Perhaps you’ve noticed that your mum is finding the shower a little harder to manage.

Maybe Dad isn’t as steady on his feet as he used to be.

 

 

Perhaps the garden or housework is becoming difficult to keep on top of, getting out into the community is harder, or everyday tasks are simply taking more effort.

These changes can be worth talking about.

We recommend reviewing supports when everyday tasks become more difficult, following a fall, illness or hospital stay, when mobility, balance or confidence changes, or when there are concerns about safety at home.

You don’t have to wait for a crisis before starting the conversation.

There may be more support available than you realise

Support at Home can include:

• personal care and daily living support
• physiotherapy and occupational therapy
• nursing care
• domestic assistance
• meal preparation
• gardening and home maintenance
• equipment and home modifications (where approved)
• social support and community activities
• respite services.

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy can also help with strength, balance, and mobility; everyday activities; and provide recommendations for equipment or modifications that support safer living at home.

Did you know Personal Care may be fully funded?

Personal Care services are now included in the Clinical Supports category under Support at Home.

If the person has been assessed and approved for Personal Care, the Australian Government will fund those approved services. This could include support with showering and personal hygiene, dressing and grooming, getting ready for the day, and other approved personal care activities.

If you’re helping someone manage their care and you’re unsure whether Personal Care has been approved, encourage them to speak with their Care Partner.

What if their needs have changed?

Needs don’t always stay the same.

If someone’s circumstances have changed since their last aged care assessment, they may be eligible for additional supports or funding. Their Care Partner can discuss whether their current support still meets their needs and whether a reassessment through My Aged Care may be appropriate.

Start the conversation

If you’re a family member, friend or carer and you’ve noticed things becoming a little more difficult, don’t assume nothing can be done.

Encourage your loved one to talk to their Care Partner about their available funding and current services.

Their Care Partner can help them:

• understand their available funding
• understand service costs and contributions
• review their current supports
• explore additional services
• discuss whether a reassessment may be beneficial.

Support at Home funding has been approved to support independence, wellbeing and quality of life. If you or someone you care for isn’t using their available support, or their needs have changed, now is a good time to start the conversation.

Talk to your Care Partner or contact Adssi today.

A conversation today could make a big difference tomorrow.

Live your best life with care at home,

Team Adssi