FAQ

The cost of aged care services varies from person to person. It depends on the care you are eligible for, the aged care provider you choose, and your financial situation. While the Australian Government may contribute to the cost of your care, you will also be asked to contribute if you can afford to. The cost of aged care services varies and is influenced by these factors:

The type of help you require: The cost is determined by the specific services required, which can range from basic assistance to more comprehensive care.

The provider you select: Different aged care providers may offer services at varying price points, so your choice of provider will impact the cost.

Your financial situation: Your personal financial circumstances will play a crucial role in determining your contribution to the cost of aged care services.

The services you receive: The range and frequency of services you receive will affect the overall cost.

Yes, depending on your package or program. My Aged Care offers access to various social support groups that cater to the social and emotional well-being of seniors. The availability of these groups depends on the specific aged care package or program you are enrolled in. These groups often provide a supportive and engaging community for seniors, allowing them to connect with others in similar situations and share experiences.

Services for getting out and staying social: My Aged Care provides assistance for seniors to maintain an active social life. This can include social support groups, activities, and outings to help seniors connect with their community and peers.

Services for getting some temporary help: Temporary help services are available for seniors who require short-term assistance. This may include respite care or home care for a limited duration to provide support to caregivers or individuals recovering from an injury or illness.

Services for keeping me well: My Aged Care offers services aimed at promoting the well-being of older adults. This encompasses health assessments, wellness programs, and access to healthcare professionals to ensure seniors remain healthy and fit.

Services for keeping my home liveable: Maintaining a liveable home environment is crucial for seniors. My Aged Care provides services that help seniors with home modifications, cleaning, and other support to ensure their living spaces are comfortable and safe.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can initiate the process by  applying for a My Aged Care Assessment online . Once your application is submitted, a trained assessor will contact you to schedule a convenient time for a home visit. During this assessment, the assessor will engage with you to discuss your individual circumstances, preferences, and care needs comprehensively.

The purpose of the assessment is to collaboratively identify the most suitable aged care service and support options tailored to your specific requirements. By actively participating in this assessment process, you can gain access to the necessary assistance and resources to enhance your quality of life and well-being.

To qualify for a My Aged Care assessment, individuals must meet specific needs and age requirements. These criteria typically include:

The level of assistance required for various everyday tasks.

Age eligibility, which generally requires individuals to be 65 years or older. However, for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants, the age requirement may be 50 years or older.

It’s important to note that individuals facing financial hardship or homelessness may also qualify for assessment. If you are aged 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and fall into these categories, please contact the My Aged Care contact centre at 1800 200 422 to discuss your situation further.

You may qualify for government-subsidised aged care services if you meet certain criteria. Eligibility is typically determined if you have experienced any of the following: 

Noted a change in your abilities or memory.

Been diagnosed with a medical condition or experienced reduced mobility.

Undergone changes in family care arrangements.

Recently encountered a fall or hospital admission.

To ascertain your eligibility for these services, the initial step is to undergo an assessment. Assessments are conducted in person, often within the comfort of your own home.

If you begin receiving home care services permanently for the first time after reaching the age of 65, you are required to exit the  NDIS  (National Disability Insurance Scheme) according to the law. It’s important to note that in such cases, you cannot request an internal review. The legislation mandates your departure from the NDIS without the need for a reviewable decision.

This legal requirement ensures a clear transition from NDIS support to My Aged Care services for individuals who meet the specified criteria based on age and care needs.

My Aged Care (MAC) service is the central platform for accessing Australian Government-funded aged care services and information. It is designed to assist older individuals, their families, and caregivers in navigating the aged care system effectively. You can  contact My Aged Care  or call them at 1800 200 422.

Once registered with My Aged Care, individuals gain access to a comprehensive range of services and resources tailored to their needs. This includes the ability to manage their client record through the My Aged Care Online Account. Additionally, health professionals have the option to refer patients to My Aged Care, while aged care assessors and approved service providers utilise specialised portals for managing service information, assessments, and referrals.

By being in contact with MAC, applicants are empowered to:

• Learn about the diverse types of aged care services available.
• Determine their eligibility and apply for an assessment.
• Locate suitable providers of aged care services.
• Estimate the costs associated with aged care services.
• Access and manage their records through the Online Account feature.
• Ensure that service providers comply with stringent quality requirements set forth by regulatory bodies.