Residential care is not the only option for seniors who need daily support to stay safe and well. Take a look at some other solutions, including home care.
When someone is getting on in years, they may find they are not comfortable living alone, or that it is not safe to do so.
However, residential aged care may not always be the solution. In fact, if you don’t have the recommendation of a GP, you may not find it possible to relocate yourself or a loved one to residential Aged Care to be looked after around the clock.
Fortunately, there are options for living outside of residential care. Some of these involve carers, and you may be eligible for government subsidy. The benefit of this type of care is that the elderly will continue to have their independence and control, including being able to go out and socialise with friends.
Take a look at some of the approaches you and your family may choose as an alternative to residential care.
Living with family
If family members have the time or space, it can be an option to move in with them. However, it’s worth noting that most people do not have the right qualifications and skills to look after their loved ones who may have complicated medical needs.
Also, living with family can be problematic if the family member is often at work or tending to other members of family and may not always be available when needed.
Many families bring a loved one home and find it works for them. If it’s not possible, home care is your next best option.
Home Care
The happy medium for accessing qualified support, even if an elderly person does live with a younger family member, is home care. This can be accessed as a first step for someone who isn’t ready to move into residential care or who does not qualify to do so.
Home care gives an excellent balance of independence and support. Here are some examples of the services home carers provide:
Physical and medical support
- Helping get in and out of bed
- Showering and wound dressing
- Administering medication
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Wellbeing checks
Domestic support
- Light cleaning
- Meal preparation
- Collecting groceries
- Helping to pay bills
- Washing, folding and putting away laundry
- Taking rubbish out
Company and outings
- Driving to the shops
- Driving to social catch-ups
- Enjoying a cup of tea and a chat
There is also the option for round-the-clock, live-in care for someone who needs constant support but does not wish to go into aged care.
Home Care Packages
Home care packages are allocated depending on the level of need. They can range from basic and low level to intermediate and high-level care. Someone on a basic package may only need help with shopping and maintaining social connections. High level is suitable for dementia patients and those who have complex medical needs.
To determine which level you or your loved one require, an Aged Care Assessment can be requested via your GP or another healthcare professional.
The cost of Home Care is subsidised by the Australian Government but the amount you pay for your Home Care Package will be determined by your financial circumstances.
In order to qualify for government funding for a Home Care Package, your income will be assessed to determine if you are eligible to receive a government-funded Home care package.
At KOPWA, we provide all levels of community Home Care. Talk to us about the right option for you or your loved one.
To find out more, contact KOPWA today.
