Am I eligible for MAC

My Aged Care serves 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.