When it comes to Home Care Packages, our team at Co.As.It. is always ready to answer your questions! In today’s blog post, we have put together some answers to FAQ about aged care services, to help guide your journey through the world of Home Care Packages.
What is a Home Care Package?
A Home Care Package is a government-funded program designed to help older Australians to
receive personalized care and support while continuing to live independently at home. Because every person has different needs, Home Care Packages are tailored to the individual, and range from Level 1 (low-level needs) to Level 4 (high-level needs), with different services and inclusions at each level.
What is a Home Care Package provider?
A Home Care Package provider is an organization, like Co.As.It., approved by the Australian Government to deliver and manage at-home services. At Co.As.It., we pride ourselves in having delivered services for over 50 years, with cultural sensitivity and dedication to our community. In addition to providing services as a Home Care Package provider, we also offer additional and specialised support for our community, such as our Social Support Groups, Volunteer Visitors Scheme and Mental Health program.
What services are included in a Home Care Package?
There are many services included in a Home Care Package, but they differ based on the Package level (read more here). A summary of the service inclusions are listed below:
Level 1 Package: At least 2 hours/week of care including; personal care, light cleaning, domestic assistance, social support, help with shopping and transport to appointments.
Level 2 Package: At least 3-4 hours/week of care, with the inclusions of a Level 1 Package, plus additional supports such as basic care equipment, home and garden maintenance and nursing assistance.
Level 3 Package: At least 7-9 hours/week of care, with the inclusions of a Level 1 and 2 package, plus medication management, allied health support, specialised equipment and behavioural support.
Level 4 Package: At least 10-13 hours/week of care, with the inclusions of all previous packages and a greater focus on the specialised health and complex needs of people who require ongoing assistance to live at home.
How do I know which Home Care Package level I would qualify for?
The Home Care Package level that you are assigned is based on an assessment done by the government Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Our team at Co.As.It. is happy to help organise and assist with this assessment, as well as communicate your individualised needs to the ACAT team.
Am I eligible for a Home Care Package?
People (generally aged over 65 years) who require support with living independently at home are eligible to apply for a Home Care Package. You can check your eligibility using this online tool or speak to our team at Co.As.It.
How do I apply for a Home Care Package?
Applications for Home Care Packages are made through My Aged Care, the Australian Government’s online gateway for aged care services. Our team at Co.As.It. can also assist you with this application.
Who will manage my Home Care Package?
Your Home Care Package will be managed by your chosen provider, like Co.As.It. Our fantastic Home Care Package coordinators work closely with you to develop a personalized care plan, manage the allocated funds, and coordinate services to meet your specific needs.
What are the advantages of getting a Home Care Package?
Home Care Packages make a huge difference in allowing people to live independently at home for longer, considering the financial, physical, and emotional challenges that come with increased needs as you age.
***
Understanding Home Care Packages empowers you to make informed decisions about your aged care journey. At Co.As.It., we are here to assist you every step of the way, answering any of the questions you might have. You can contact us on (02) 9564 0744 or at info@coasit.org.au.
