Planning for Aged Care
PLANNING FOR LIFE TRANSITIONS
Most of us want to live in our own home for as long as we can. But it's smart to plan for what might happen in the future. Thinking about aged care homes now, while you can choose for yourself, is a great way to stay in control.
This guide will help you look at your choices and write down what is important to you in a new home. When you do this, you give a clear map to your family and your Enduring Power of Attorney(s) and Guardian(s). It helps them make sure any choice they make for you is what you would have wanted.
Why Plan Ahead for Aged Care?
No Rushed Choices in a Crisis: If you plan now, your family won't have to make quick, stressful choices if you get sick.
You Stay in Control: Your wishes will be the guide for any big decisions.
Time to Look Around: You have time to visit places and find one that feels right for you.
Makes it Easier for Your Family: Giving your family a written plan is a kind gift that helps them a lot.
DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST: AGED CARE PLANNING
Step 1: Think About What You Like
Before you start looking, think about what makes a place feel like home.
Where You Want to Live
Do you want to be close to your friends and community?
Is it important to be near your family?
Do you need to be near shops or your church?
Your Lifestyle
Do you like a busy, social place, or a quiet and calm one?
Are there things you love to do, like gardening, music, or crafts?
Do you want a place that is friendly to pets?
Your Room
What would make your room feel comfy? (like your own bathroom, a nice view, or space for your favourite chair).
Your Health
Do you have any health problems that might need special care later?
Do you need services like a physio to be at the home?
Finding a Good Place
Looking, Visiting, and Writing It Down. Once you know what you want, you can start looking at homes.
Step 2: Start Looking
Use the My Aged Care website: This is the best place to start. You can find and compare homes in your area. You can also see their star ratings that show how good they are. Find a provider | My Aged Care
Talk to people you trust: Ask your friends, neighbours, or your doctor if they know about the local homes. Your doctor often knows which places give good care.
Step 3: Visit the Places on Your List
A booklet can't tell you how a place really feels. The best way to know is to visit.
Things to Look For on Your Visit:
How does it feel? Does it feel friendly and warm? Are people nice to each other?
The people living there: Do they look happy and well looked after?
The staff: Are the staff kind and helpful? Do they smile?
Is it clean? Does the home look and smell fresh and clean?
The food: Ask to see a menu. Does the food look nice?
Activities: Look at the list of activities. Is there anything fun that you would like to do?
Step 4: Know About the Costs
Paying for aged care can seem tricky. There are three main costs:
A Fee for Daily Living: This pays for things like your meals, cleaning, and laundry.
A Fee for Your Care: Some people pay this extra fee. It depends on how much money you have.
A Fee for Your Room: This is the cost of your room. You can pay for it in two main ways: pay a big amount at the start, or pay a bit every day.
It is a good idea to talk to a financial advisor who knows about aged care. They can help you understand the costs.
DOWNLOAD TEMPLATE: MY RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE PREFERENCES
Last Step: Write It Down and Talk to Your Family
Use a worksheet to write down what you found and which homes you liked best. Keep this paper in a safe place with your Will.
Most importantly, talk about your choices with your Enduring Guardian, your Attorney, and your close family. A good plan only helps if the people who need it know where to find it.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. The information is provided "as is," without any guarantee of its accuracy or completeness.
Any action you take based on the contents of this guide is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage resulting from its use. Please consult a qualified professional to address your individual circumstances.