Support at Home Tasmania 2023 by DPS Publishing

TASMANIA

support at HOmE A

DPS

PUBLICATION

Helping you stay in your own home and community longer

RESEARCH 1

PREPARATION

GETTING ASSESSED

FINDING PROVIDERS

HomeSupportGuide.com.au | TalkingAgedCare.com.au / TalkingAgedCare | @TalkingAgedCare

MANAGING YOUR SERVICES

OneCare is your local Tasmania, not-for-profit home care provider. We’re here in your community to provide you with the care and support you need, to help you make the most of every day. Our Home Care service can help you with everyday tasks, allowing you to remain in your own home for longer. • • • • • • • • • • •

Personal care Meal preparation Social support Cleaning Shopping Home and garden maintenance Nursing services Massage therapy Transport Equipment hire and purchase Allied health services

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Call us on 1300 555 409 or visit onecare.org.au

INTRODUCTION

Welcome From THE CEO • Michelle Beech

It is my pleasure to welcome you to our brand new Support at Home guide, specifically focused on all the information you need to navigate the home care system in your state or territory.

In the blue highlighted Getting Assessed section you can find out how to get a My Aged Care reference number, information about waitlists and how to book an assessment. Use our purple Finding Providers section to choose a provider of your choice with our full list of providers in your area.

After producing a combined national guide, presenting information and options on both retirement living and home care, we have been specifically asked to bring back our separate home care guide, with a state based focus, to help you to stay in your own home and community longer. We have tailored this guide to take you through the home care journey one step at the time.

Lastly to help you manage your services with ease we have created a pink coloured section with information on financial advice, wills and estates, letting you know who else can help, such as advocacy and placement consultants and giving you an overview of other government funded supports and how your own council might be able to help you along your journey.

The journey steps are Research, Preparation, Getting Assessed, Finding Providers and Managing your services. You might not enter the system at step 1, and you may even have the need to navigate back to different stages of the steps during your journey. Wherever you are on your journey this guide will be your helping hand along the way.

Our website HomeSupportGuide.com.au can further assist you for detailed information articles and an online search section.

Each step is broken down by colours so you will know what information fits for what section. Under the orange Research section you will find articles on the types of care available, when to consider help, figuring out your eligibility and information on the types of support options that could be available to you.

We would like to wish you all the best as you embark on your journey in finding the support at home services to suit your needs.

As always we welcome any feedback or suggestions of further content you would like to see in the next edition. Simply email info@dps.com.au to let us know your thoughts. We look forward to hearing from you. Regards, Michelle Beech - CEO

In the Preparation section (coloured green) we give you detailed information of what documentation you will need to prepare for your assessment to ensure a good outcome as well as how to prepare your finances. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

Support at Home

Table of Contents

Tasmania Edition 1

INTRODUCTION Welcome from the CEO Contents How to use this guide Steps to home care

1 2 5 6

STEP 1 > RESEARCH Types of care When to consider help Eligibility and assessment Commonwealth Home Support Programme Home Care Packages Consider these support options Home and garden maintenance Personal care Meals and shopping Transport Social support Respite options Transition care Short Term Restorative Care Wellness centres Self funded care Council services

8 9 10 11 15 17 17 19 23 24 27 29 31 34 34 36 36

STEP 2 > PREPARATION Preparation overview What documentation you need Checklist Preparing your finances

37 38 39 40

STEP 3 > GETTING ASSESSED Getting assessed overview Book your assessment My Aged Care reference number Priority and waitlists

41 41 42 43

STEP 4 > FINDING PROVIDERS Finding providers overview Home care providers list In home care providers Home Care Package providers Before starting services Care agreement Care plan

46 47 49 52 56 56 57

STEP 5 > MANAGING YOUR SERVICES

Managing services overview How often should you review your needs Changing providers Who can help Placement consultants Financial advisors Know your rights Advocacy

59 60 61 62 62 63 63 64

Editor

Margot White Chief Executive Officer Michelle Beech

DPS Publishing Pty Ltd ABN 53 090 793 730

PO Box 1026 Pasadena SA 5042 1300 186 688

info@dps.com.au

HomeSupportGuide.com.au

Advertising sales@dps.com.au 1300 186 688

Distribution distribution@dps.com.au 1300 186 688

Proudly produced and printed in Australia The factual material contained in this publication has been obtained from information supplied by government departments, industry and organisations, by personal interview and by telephone and correspondence. At the time of going to press the publisher believed that all information submitted for publication was accurate and complete. However, the publisher can take no responsibility for inaccuracies or incomplete information that may have been supplied to them in the course of their enquiries detailed above. The facts published indicate the result of those enquiries and no warranty as to their accuracy can be given. Images within this publication may have been altered from their original format. Images: Shutterstock.com © Copyright. No part of this publication can be used or reproduced in any format without express permission in writing from The Publisher.

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INTRODUCTION

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

This Support at Home guide was created to help you navigate the different home support options available to you to help you stay in your own home and community for as long as possible. We have broken down the steps to accessing home care to help guide you through, wherever you are on your journey to accessing supports.

Throughout the publication you’ll find QR codes, just like the one placed below, that link through to different online articles. They’ll provide you with even more useful information to help you make the right choice about home care. To find out more about our range of home, aged care, retirement and disability support resources, visit dps.com.au or call 1300 186 688.

The articles in this guide explain the different types of support, when to consider help at home and how to plan and manage your supports. From simple ways to improve your home environment to understanding Government funded programs and how to access self-funded supports, this Guide will explain what to consider and help you be better prepared to stay home for longer. We’ve also included a list of home care services to help you find providers that can deliver the services you need. The In Home Care table is an alphabetical list of providers able to support you with a range of basic services funded under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme such as meals and shopping or home and garden maintenance. The Home Care Packages table gives an overview of approved providers able to support you with services funded under a Level 1 - 4 Home Care Package. They are listed by region to help you find providers in your area that can support your needs. For more information about the range of support at home options, including an extensive directory of service providers near you and in-depth provider profiles, head to HomeSupportGuide.com.au.

SCAN

to read more home care articles www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

INTRODUCTION

STEPS TO HOME CARE OVERVIEW

If you have realised you need some help to continue living independently in your own home then you may be wondering where to start. We’ve broken the process down into simple steps that will help you get from A to B in your home care journey.

Research

Prepare

Learn about the different types of care and discover what options are available to you.

Get an understanding of what you need to consider and prepare ahead of starting any aged care services.

Getting assessed

Finding providers

Managing services

An aged care assessment will help decide what level of support you require so you can get the care that best meets your needs.

Find providers to deliver a range of products and services meeting your needs and requirements.

Support At Home Tasmania

Read about managing your supports, for example when your needs change, your supports no longer suit you or you would like to change providers.

Rehabilitation after illness or injury Acute & chronic pain management

Balance & falls prevention Home safety assessments & modifications

STEP

RESEARCH

01 RESEARCH

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TYPES OF CARE Home care is best described as support services that can provide a certain level of assistance with a range of tasks and chores to help you remain living at home, independently, for as long as possible. Home care services can be as simple as family and friends helping out, accessing council supports, or as official as receiving Government subsidised supports through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or a Home Care Package from an aged care provider. This type of support is an option for people who are getting older, are chronically ill, recovering from surgery or for people living with disability, and offers a range of support in areas such as personal care, home maintenance, cooking and meal preparation, health care and transport. Home and commuity When accessing home care, you will stay in your own home and community, surrounded by all of your belongings and retaining the freedom to come and go as you please. It means that services or care workers will come into your home to help you out with whatever support you need or have been assessed as needing. The level of support home care services can provide ranges from a little bit of help with the weekly shopping for example, to high level assistance for several hours each day, helping you shower and get dressed, 8

Support At Home Tasmania

get to appointments and prepare meals, or help you access support aids like handrails. It all depends on your needs, wants and circumstances. In Australia, there are two main streams of home care – the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP) program. Both programs are subsidised by the Government and are available after assessment to see if you are eligible for support. Other options While these are the most common home care services accessed, there are a number of other options you may want to consider if you do need some help around the house to live safely, comfortably and well. These include accessing self-funded or private home care services or getting help from personal networks and the community. Some people use a combination of these options to meet their needs or to assist them while they are waiting to be assessed for Government funded support or for services to become available.

SCAN

to read more Research articles

RESEARCH

WHEN TO CONSIDER HELP

NO NEED TO WAIT

Some immediate signs could be:

Many people put off thinking about home care and it’s sometimes not until a crisis hits, leaving the family scrambling to make arrangements when emotions are at an all-time high. This often means needs aren’t thoroughly assessed and decisions have to be made quickly.

 Loss of driver’s licence

Getting some extra help doesn’t mean you have to give up your freedom and can’t live an independent or active life. It’s never too early to start the conversation about home care so you and your loved ones are prepared, understand your needs and know what support options are available.

 F orgetting where you are or how to get back home

Remain independent Starting home care sooner makes living at home easier and sometimes a little bit of help will mean you can actually remain independent and in your own home for longer while enjoying the things you love. Getting someone in to help with physically demanding jobs such as weeding and pruning your garden, doesn’t mean you’re admitting you can’t look after the garden anymore. It simply enables you to enjoy your garden without having to do the ‘heavy’ stuff.

 A fall resulting in reduced mobility A hospital stay or procedure that results in the need for temporary care  New fear of being left alone  Decline in general health

 F amily or friends moving away and no one around to help you. In other cases, the need for support happens more gradually. You may notice subtle changes such as: S imple daily jobs such as doing laundry and preparing meals start to feel overwhelming and hard to do  Lack of personal grooming Y our living space is becoming messier than usual  F orgetfulness, for example missing meals, medication times and appointments or forgetting to pay bills D ecreased attention to food safety i.e. using foods beyond expiry dates

A need for help

 Avoiding social events or contact with others

While there is no need to wait for a physical illness or health scare to start accessing home care, there are many signs or ‘trigger events’ that could signal a need for help.

 F amily and friends spending more time helping you with everyday tasks. There is no shame in admitting that you need some help to remain living in your own home. If you are finding day-to-day tasks harder to do by yourself or see a loved one having a hard time looking after themselves or their home, it may be time to consider your support options. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

RESEARCH

ELIGIBILITY and ASSESSMENT

WHAT IS YOUR ELIGIBILITY Accessing any level of Government subsidised support – such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or Home Care Package (HCP) program requires an aged care assessment. Government subsidised home care is only available to you if you are aged over 65 years, or over 50 years if you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. If you are under this age, but require in home support, speak with your GP or look into alternative support options such as privately funded home care.

Assessments for Government supported assistance are conducted either through a Regional Assessment Service (RAS) for CHSP or an Aged Care Assessment Team/ Service (ACAT/S) for HCP supports. Client record The first step to take, is to contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to register yourself for assistance. When you call the contact centre for the first time, an operator will create a client record and ask you a number of questions about your needs, preferences, and any services you already receive. It’s handy to have your Medicare card ready when you register. Based on this initial conversation, the operator will determine whether you need a formal assessment and, if so, organise an official aged care assessment with a RAS or ACAT/S. The aged care assessment is all about making sure that the service you receive is the one that is best for you and your carer’s needs. The meeting is generally held in your own home or in hospital, and will be completed by a health professional such as a doctor, nurse, social worker or occupational therapist. There is no charge for the assessment and friends, family members or carers are encouraged to be involved.

Support At Home Tasmania

RESEARCH

WHAT IS CHSP

The CHSP aims to provide extra assistance to help you manage at home, but also provides support using a wellness approach that builds on your strength, which will both maintain your independence and develop your abilities. Range of services There is a large range of different services available that can assist you in your home. Every service you receive should benefit you positively and target your individual needs.

COMMONWEALTH HOME SUPPORT PROGRAMME Not everyone accessing home care requires high-level support, some people may simply need some help with challenging chores – like gardening, or keeping on top of the vacuuming and washing. If this sounds like you, you may be best suited to home care supports offered through the Government’s entry level home support initiative, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). The CHSP is a national program, meaning it is available in all States and Territories. The services offered as part of CHSP are there to support you if you are mostly able to care for yourself but need some help with certain small jobs. It is also a great option if you are experiencing a setback and need short-term support to help you get back on your feet. If you need support to live independently at home or remain socially active in your community, the CHSP can be a great home care option.

The CHSP services you can expect to receive from providers to help you manage your day-to-day activities can include:  Transport D omestic help such as house cleaning and laundry P ersonal care such as help with showering, dressing and undressing H ome maintenance such as changing light bulbs and gardening H ome modifications such as installing a grab rail A ids and equipment such as a shower chair, raised toilet seat and mobility aids  Help with meals and/or food preparation  Nursing care and managing medications  Allied health S ocial support such as accompanied activities and group excursions  Respite CHSP is usually the entry point to home care services for a lot of people and provides basic services such as help with shopping or meal preparation, keeping the house clean, and low level personal care. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

RESEARCH

WHAT IS CHSP

CHSP services enhance the independence and wellbeing of older people who want to remain living at home and in their community for longer, but need that little bit of extra help to do that.

Supports offerend through CHSP are entry-level supports, and if you have more complex care needs, a Home Care Package may be better suited to you and your needs.

Independence is different from person to person, which is why individualised CHSP services are tailored to your needs. This could take different forms, like in an ongoing support capacity or short term assistance for recovery after an accident or illness.

If you find yourself in the situation where you have an urgent need for home support services, and your safety would be at risk if those needs were not immediately met, you may be able to start receiving CHSP services before you have been assessed.

Tailored services Access to CHSP services is only available through a Government assessment to work out what services you need, and if in fact CHSP is the best fit for you.

Support At Home Tasmania

INDEPENDENT LIVING AND HOME CARE The Queen Victoria village is set in a beautiful location with sweeping water views of Hobart’s River Derwent and blooming gardens. Queen Victoria Care offers home care services in our village and local community. We have 48 units in stunning landscaped gardens, where people can live independently and call on support when needed. Our Independent

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Living Units offer a relaxed lifestyle, along with flexible services to assist residents to maintain their quality of life and connections. We recognise that many people wish to remain living independently for as long as possible, and we support residents to do so.

If it's time to consider aged care services, talk to our admission specialist, we are here to support your journey.

Partnering with people to live their best life.

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We provide specialised home services personalised to meeting your needs in the way you want them

(03) 6228 3899 ihcs@independenthealth.com.au 14 www.independenthealth.com.au

RESEARCH

HOME CARE PACKAGES HIGHER CARE NEEDS If your care needs are more than entry-level, you may be eligible for services and supports through one of the four available levels of Home Care Packages (HCP). These packages, just like CHSP services, are available to Australians aged over 65 years, or over 50 years if you identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and are designed to help you be supported to remain living independently and comfortably in your own home for as long as possible. HCP levels It’s important to keep in mind when looking into HCPs that access to any support on offer through this program requires you to have your needs assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team/Service (ACAT/S) and be approved for one of the four levels of care: Level 1 – s upporting people with basic care needs Level 2 – s upporting people with low level care needs

M eal and food support to ensure your nutrition and hydration needs are met and can also include assistance with other food-related jobs like meal preparation, and feeding C ontinence management, these supports can range from supplying products to supporting you to use continence aids and appliances

Level 4 – s upporting people with high level care needs

M obility and dexterity assistance which includes the access to and supported use of aids and equipment like walking frames/sticks, mechanical devices for lifting, bed rails, slide sheets and pressure-relieving mattresses

The assessment will explore the types of care needs you may have, and could lead to you being approved for one of the four levels of HCP on offer that is best suited to your situation now.

N ursing, allied health and therapy services such as speech therapy, podiatry, occupational or physiotherapy services and other clinical services, such as hearing and vision services

Your HCP may include services and support with daily tasks such as:

T ransport and personal assistance including with shopping, visiting health practitioners and attending social activities

Level 3 – s upporting people with intermediate care needs

P ersonal services including help with personal activities and needs such as bathing, showering, toileting, dressing and undressing, mobility and communication

H ousekeeping and gardening such as help with domestic duties like cleaning your house or support to help you maintain your garden www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

RESEARCH

HOME CARE PACKAGES Being approved for HCP support may come as a huge relief to you and your loved ones, but this doesn’t automatically mean you will be able to access supports and funding straight away. You will be placed on a waiting list with packages distributed when they become available based on priority and how long you have been waiting. Once you have been notified that a HCP is available for you, it will be up to you to find a service provider best suited to you, to deliver your home care services. Special needs and supplements To support those with additional needs, the Government offers a range of package supplements which you may be eligible for in addition to your approved HCP. The Home Care Package supplements you may be able to access, depending on your eligibility and assessment, may include:  The Dementia and Cognition Supplement  The Veterans’ Supplement  Oxygen Supplement  Enteral Feeding Supplement  Viability Supplement  Hardship Supplement Your chosen provider can arrange an assessment to find out if you are eligible for any of the package supplements. They must lodge an application and will manage the supplement on your behalf. Self-managing your Home Care Package The person who knows best about you and your needs, is you! You have had complete autonomy and control over your life, so it makes sense that you might want to maintain that control by selfmanaging your Home Care Package. 16

Support At Home Tasmania

Rather than having a case manager to manage your package and handle all elements of organising your care and support, you may decide you want to manage the coordination of your supports yourself. Some people find that they have more choice and control over their HCP when they are self-managing it. Additionally, people who self-manage their care are able to cut down on administration costs and case management fees they would normally have to pay and are able to put that money towards further care, more hours or extra services. When you self-manage your HCP, you get to choose the provider who hosts your package, and then pick and manage your support workers, decide when you want to receive these services and negotiate how much you pay for the provided services. Your provider is obligated to provide you with all the information you need to self-manage your HCP. This should include clear instructions on responsibilities and obligations, and supporting you through the self-managing process. When considering self-management of your package, you should consider whether you have the capacity and support to manage it yourself. By its very nature, self-management does require some involvement. In some cases, you may ask your partner or loved one to self-manage your package on your behalf. It is important to keep in mind that some providers may have policies around selfmanagement, so you should definitely shop around and enquire with providers about how they deal with clients who wish to self-manage their package.

RESEARCH

CONSIDER THESE SUPPORT OPTIONS Finding the right support to help at home can come with huge benefits. Sometimes a little assistance is all you need, allowing you to stay independent and enjoy other activities. In addition to the informal support from family and friends or community assistance, there are home care providers who provide formal support services. There is a large number of for-profit and not-for-profit providers who can deliver support to older Australians in their own home. These range from small and community organisations, to larger national operators. These services – ranging from entry level right through to intermediate and high level support – can help you at home through almost any

stage of life with the delivery of supports such as gardening, personal care, nursing, shopping, domestic assistance and even more specialised care such as dementia support and palliative care at home. Depending on your situation you may be able to access these services through a Government funded home support program or choose to use a private home care provider. With all this variety and so many options available to you – depending on your situation, finances, location and needs – it is important to be aware of just what is out there and to know what supports will best suit your needs now and into the future.

HOME AND GARDEN MAINTENANCE JOBS AROUND THE HOUSE Owning a home often comes with a lot of pride but as you get older your home and garden may become harder to maintain. Sometimes a little assistance is all you need, allowing you to stay independent and enjoy other activities. Peace of mind Ageing and medical conditions can limit your mobility and increase your fall risk, meaning it’s often safer, quicker and easier to leave it to the experts. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

RESEARCH

Accepting help with a range of jobs around the house may allow you to continue living in the comfort of your own home, while maintaining this ‘pride of place’. Whether you need your gutters cleared, your lawn mowed or minor home repairs, there are services that can help keep your home looking its best. Who can help? Professional service providers can assist with these essential tasks or there may be volunteers within your community who can perform these jobs. Your council may be able to assist by suggesting businesses or volunteers in your area who can offer you these services. If you’ve been assessed or approved for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a Home Care Package (HCP) you can request home and/or garden maintenance as part of your support plan. Otherwise, home and garden maintenance services can visit your house as required to keep your garden tidy. Home maintenance services include:  Gutter cleaning H ome modification installations, including handrails in the bathroom and toilet P ermanent or temporary ramps outside or inside the home  Step modifications H andyman work including fixing or replacing tap washers, repairing doors and cupboards, minor general, plumbing and electrical repairs such as changing light bulbs  Installation and maintenance of smoke alarms  Pest control F ixing fences and gates 18

Support At Home Tasmania

Gardening services include:  Lawn mowing and hedging  Weeding and pruning  Watering and fertilising  Pressure washing outdoor areas  Window washing A good service provider will help you keep your house and garden in tip-top shape so you can stay living in your home for longer. Generally, people like to maintain their own homes to a certain degree but may not be able to keep up with all the gardening or household cleaning like they previously could. If you are a little unsure about having someone you don’t know assist around the home, you can enquire with a provider about their insurance cover and whether they are police-checked. You can even ask to meet with staff members beforehand to get to know them. This may not be mandatory protocol for every business, but it can give you peace of mind that you and your home will be safe and in good hands. The other great thing about handing over the house and garden chores is that you now have more time to focus on things you enjoy spending time on, like catching up with friends and family, having ‘me time’, or getting back into your hobbies. Usually, leisure activities and hobbies are the first to be sacrificed because you have to do household tasks.

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PERSONAL CARE A RANGE OF SERVICES As you age, it may become harder to look after yourself or stay on top of housework. To help you maintain your health and dignity or live comfortably and safely, respectful and qualified carers can come to your house to assist you. Accepting that you need help in performing these tasks can be hard and sometimes people think it is a sign that you’re losing your independence. However, being supported by carers as you age in your home allows you to continue to enjoy the lifestyle you want and manage your health from home.

Whether you need two hours of personal care every now and then, a few times a week, every day or 24 hour care, you can access this support through a range of private providers or with assistance from the Government funded Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a Home Care Package (HCP). Depending on your own capabilities, you may receive a little or a lot of help around the home. Personal care and domestic assistance are the most common in home supports people seek. Services range from meal preparation, help with shopping or cleaning, to assistance with showering and getting dressed.

Personal assistance Personal care tasks can include:  Showering and bathing  Dressing and undressing  Grooming and shaving  Changing continence aids  Assistance with toileting  Dental care  Repositioning bed-bound clients A ssistance with mobility like getting out of bed and moving around the house  Eating and drinking The level of help you require will depend on your health and ability. For some people, having a standby support worker for emergencies during the morning shower is enough. Others may need someone to towel them dry and help with dressing.

www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

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Feeling connected Some older people struggle with the feeling of personal intrusion when receiving home care. Your provider’s staff will be qualified, caring and respectful when providing this care, and should make sure you are in a nurturing and supportive environment so you can easily accept help in your home. Staff should be making the effort to talk you through every stage and make the whole process comfortable for you. Personal care workers will not only provide you care, they will also develop a strong relationship with you. This can make the whole service experience more enjoyable and it will also help combat loneliness. Older people are more prone to feelings of loneliness, which can have a huge impact on a person’s wellbeing. A regular friendly face around the home can make you feel connected and social. Additionally, having assistance around the home means you have more energy to get out and about and stay connected with your wider community network.

Domestic assistance If you need help keeping your house tidy, doing laundry, preparing food or stocking your fridge or pantry, domestic assistance can help. Reduced or limited mobility or cognitive decline can make these weekly, and sometimes daily, tasks challenging. You may have a neighbour, friend or family member come in regularly to help you with these tasks or you may prefer to hire a professional service to come in at set times to do those jobs for you. Having domestic assistance as part of your CHSP or HCP will give you peace of mind knowing your house is clean and you’re able to live comfortably and safely. Domestic assistance services include:  Household cleaning  Washing and ironing clothes  Grocery or retail shopping  Making beds  Preparing food Domestic assistance can be provided on a daily, weekly or fortnightly basis depending on your needs and the domestic tasks required. For example, washing clothes and grocery shopping could be undertaken once a week and household cleaning may only be needed once a fortnight. Although preparing food is typically a daily job, your support worker could prepare a number of meals in your home, then put them in a freezer for you to eat when you want.

Support At Home Tasmania

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RESEARCH

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MEALS AND SHOPPING If you have trouble getting to the local shops and carrying shopping bags or have difficulty with preparing and cooking meals and need someone to do this for you, help is available. Looking after yourself is incredibly important and good nutrition is a part of that. Getting assistance with shopping or when preparing and cooking meals can make things much easier and help you feel comfortable that you’re getting enough food and nutrients. You can get assistance with: G rocery shopping, food preparation and/or cooking

Some meal services and supports that are available include:  Click and collect Click and collect has become a popular way to do grocery shopping, with the convenience of shopping online, getting your groceries packed by a personal shopper and ready for collection. This service is usually free, with the possibility of same day collection from a supermarket location of your choice if you order online before a certain time.

 Transport to and from shops  Feeding  Meal delivery  Food subscription services  Cooking programs  Diet, nutrition, food storage and food safety  Special dietary requirements  Shopping for items like clothes and gifts etc. It’s not just food shopping you can get assistance with. For example, a support worker can assist you in going to a department store to shop for clothes or gifts or to the post office to pay your bills. This provides peace of mind and allows you to get out in the community to buy the things you need if you have limited mobility or can no longer drive yourself. There are many services available that can help with meals and shopping, depending on the level of assistance you require. You may just need help getting the groceries to your door or need help with food storage, right down to preparing, cooking and feeding of meals. It may be handy to talk to a friend, family member or your doctor about what care you might need.

Some supermarkets also allow you to leave the personal shopper notes, such as how ripe you would like your fruit and vegetables to be.  Grocery delivery services Some supermarkets provide home delivery if transport is an issue or you would like the convenience of your groceries delivered to your door. Ordering online can be easy and convenient, with the ability to select the exact items you need, different delivery time slots and various payment options. The delivery fee may differ depending on the time slot you select, and often is free if over a certain amount is spent. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

RESEARCH There are also private companies and smaller supermarket stores that provide delivery options.  Food subscription services If you enjoy cooking, but don’t want to think about planning what to eat, food subscription services can be a good option. They provide fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes to your home so you can enjoy cooking without the hassle. The benefits of these services include convenience, saving time deciding what to cook, minimal food waste and portion control.  Prepared meal deliveries There are organisations, such as Meals on Wheels, that provide ready- made meals to your door. This can be a good option for someone who doesn’t enjoy cooking or enjoys the convenience of meals made and delivered to them. Most services cater for specific cultural or dietary requirements, should you need it. There is often a social component that comes with using these services. Food delivered by Meals on Wheels, for example, is usually by volunteers who are happy to have a chat and often build relationships with regular customers, making it a pleasurable and comforting service for people who may not have a lot of social interaction.

Volunteers who regularly deliver meals to the same customers are also able to monitor a person’s wellbeing in terms of appetite, hygiene, or visible signs of confusion or deterioration.  Cooking programs and resources Many older Australians are used to cooking for a household of several people and adapting to cooking for one or two as they get older is often a big adjustment. Specific cooking programs for older Australians can help improve quality of life through basic cooking lessons, nutrition education and social engagement. Speak to your local Council or call or visit your local library to discuss events being held in your area and how you can get involved. The Department of Health’s Eat for Health website provides recommendations, advice and recipes to help people eat nutritious and balanced food. The website contains recipes to suit all appetites and budgets while meeting nutrition goals. Visit eatforhealth.gov.au to download their free resources. No matter what level of help you need, there is a range of services to assist you in making convenient, healthy food choices.

TRANSPORT OPTIONS MAINTAINING INDEPENDENCE Having free, inexpensive or subsidised transport options available is important in maintaining your independence, remaining socially active and reducing social isolation as you age.

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Thinking ahead and being aware of these options can give you peace of mind when deciding how to get to the shops, a social event or your next medical appointment. If you are still able to drive a car, there are also many things to consider to ensure the safety of you and others on the road.

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Driving Having the ability to drive a car is an important component for many people in keeping their independence. However, as you get older there are special licensing requirements, which may involve annual medical check-ups, completing driving assessments or renewing your licence more frequently. These often vary depending on what State or Territory you live in. Contact the Department of Transport in your State or Territory to find out what rules apply.

Low floors and ramps allow easy, safe entry and exit of vehicles.There are also allocated spaces for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The Australian Government issues the Pensioner Concession Card to eligible Australians over 60 which offers a range of benefits including subsidised public transport fees. Some States and Territories even offer pensioners free travel at certain times.

As you age you may experience vision changes, impairments in your decision making skills and slower reaction times which can put others in danger on the road. If you experience symptoms that can affect your driving ability or no longer comfortable operating a motor vehicle, have a chat to your doctor and family to decide whether it is time to surrender your licence. If you are still able to drive but have a disability or a mobility impairment and require a mobility aid such as a walking frame, crutches, scooter or wheelchair, you may be eligible for a disability parking permit. Disability parking is often closest to the entrance and exit of buildings, making it easier to get around. You must display your permit on the rear view mirror of your car if you park in a disability parking space. There may be a small fee involved in obtaining an Australian Disability Parking Permit and you must be assessed by your doctor or specialist to prove you require a permit. Each State and Territory may have different eligibility criteria around permit parking so it is important to check the rules that apply based on where you live. Public Transport Getting from one place to another on public transport is a common choice for older people. Most public transport services, including buses, trains, trams and ferries are accessible for people with limited mobility.

Alternative transport options While transport can be provided through Government funded support, there are transport options available through local councils, community transport providers and private businesses if you are unable to drive or access public transport. Local councils and community groups Many councils and community organisations provide a variety of transport options such as: S hopping transport, which may offer a group bus service that allows you and others to do your weekly shopping S ocial transport, which provides transport for groups to attend social events or activities such as going to the movies or sightseeing P ersonal transport, which offers individual transport to the hospital, medical appointments or personal social visits to family and friends.

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RESEARCH Throughout Australia, there is a wide range of not-for-profit, charity, religious, cultural and community groups providing free or low cost transport assistance for older people. Many of these schemes are Government subsidised and staffed by volunteer drivers, however, you may have to pay a small contribution towards the scheme. Your local council will be able to suggest community organisations in your area who offer these transport services to the community or offer community buses and personal transport. Council community buses usually operate on a weekly basis with many offering the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off. As well as taking residents to shopping centres, many council run community buses visit other services and activities, such as libraries and senior’s clubs and groups. You will need to pay a fee for using the community bus which may vary depending on where it is going. Personal transport allows you to get to medical, wellbeing and other essential appointments if you are no longer able to drive. Council transport programs are generally organised by a council paid coordinator, with the driving service provided by volunteers. In some cases, the council will approve certain contractors or taxi companies to carry out the service. There is usually a minimum charge for the service, and fees may vary depending on the distance you are travelling and whether you require a return journey. Councils provide various transport services, so it’s best to check with them about what services are available to you in your community. Transport as part of your package To receive transport as part of your Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) funding or Home Care Package (HCP) you must first be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team or Service (ACAT/S).

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If you need someone to take you to your appointments, daily errands and social activities, make sure you tell the person assessing you how often you need to leave the house for these appointments. For example, you may need a lift to the local RSL for ‘games night’ once a month. Once approved someone will come to your house at agreed times and ensure you get to your activities safely. Private services Private car services are also available depending on your needs for transport, which may offer a more personal and professional travel service. Many businesses have drivers who are trained in mobility assistance and may offer additional services, such as accompanying clients in and out of appointments, shopping trips and other reasons for transport. Private transport businesses can provide once off or ongoing services. Most private home care providers offer personal transport services, which can help with transport to and from various appointments and outings. Services are usually provided by support workers on a temporary or ongoing basis and are tailored depending on your needs and circumstance. Taxi Subsidy Scheme All State and Territory Governments have a scheme designed to provide financial assistance to older people who may have a disability or medical condition that prevents them from using public or community transport. To apply for the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS) or Taxi Subsidy Scheme (TSS), you must be a permanent resident of Australia who resides in that State or Territory, have a severe or permanent disability, such as limited mobility and not be a member of other Taxi Subsidy Schemes in another State or Territory. The TTSS provides eligible people with a booklet of dockets that can be used to subsidise up to a certain percentage of total taxi fares, with a maximum subsidy per trip.

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SOCIAL SUPPORT Staying connected and engaged with your social networks and community is an integral part of your health and wellbeing as you age. You can access social support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a Home Care Package (HCP). This could simply be a visit from your support worker for a cup of tea and a chat, getting out in your community together or attending community based social activities with other older people in your area. There are a number of social support initiatives and programs across the country helping people like you stay connected to friends, family and your community.

It is an Australian Government initiative delivered under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). It organises volunteers for home visits to older people who are at risk of loneliness or social isolation. These volunteers can offer conversation and friendship, often through shared language or cultural backgrounds or life experiences.

Connecting online Be Connected is an Australia wide initiative helping Australians learn to connect with others digitally and be safe online. The movement provides free courses to teach people how to use a range of technologies including Apple and Android products. Through Be Connected you can engage with family and friends online, find new friends, keep up-to-date with what’s happening in the world and your community and learn how to safely and securely buy and sell items online. If you benefit from in-person support, the Be Connected network offers community partners who can visit your home to help you develop your digital skills and build confidence. To find out more about this initiative call 1300 795 897 or visit beconnected.esafety.gov.au. Community Visitors Scheme You may need a little help to stay connected to your community, which is where the Community Visitors Scheme can assist.

The Community Visitors Scheme is run by organisations who will make sure your volunteer is a good match, so you need to include information about any special needs or circumstances when applying. Volunteers are assigned based on urgency and suitability, not waiting time. For more information on the Community Visitors Scheme call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au . www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

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Social clubs and activities Your council and community groups or organisations may host a range of social activities and clubs which help you stay engaged and connected with your community. Joining a club will help you find a purpose, meet new people and you’ll have something to look forward to. These could include:  Reading  Arts and crafts  Dancing  Board games  Exercise and walking  Music  Cooking  Outdoor activities H obby collecting (such as antiques or other items) Getting involved in social clubs, activities or groups has a range of benefits including improving cognitive function, maintaining or improving physical health, preventing depression, increasing immune system functioning, better sleep and can even lead to a longer life. You can chat with your local council to find social clubs and activities near you or speak to your support worker or coordinator of your Home Care Package about getting involved in social classes in your community. Men’s sheds Men are more inclined to experience isolation, loneliness and depression as they age. We know the vital role social engagement and networks play throughout our lives and this is particularly important as you get older. Men’s sheds are a great place where men from all walks of life can come together to chat and enjoy each other’s company. The sheds provide a safe, positive and busy environment without the pressure. 28

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Men’s sheds play an invaluable role in opening up the conversation of men’s emotions and health and wellbeing, particularly mental health. Funded by the Department of Health, the Australian Men’s Shed Association provides practical support to men’s sheds and delivers a wide range of services to improve the health and wellbeing of members and reduce the number of men who are at risk from preventable health issues that may arise from isolation. The Association has collaborated with National, State, Territory and community services such as Beyond Blue, Heart Foundation, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Cancer Council to develop and deliver a range of resources and national initiatives. Often bonding over common interests or life experiences, many men thrive on the mateship formed at men’s sheds. To find a men’s shed near you, call the Australian Men’s Shed Association on 1300 550 009 or visit mensshed.org/find-a-shed. Volunteering Volunteering is a great way to stay active and connected to your community, while also helping other people. According to statistics from Volunteering Australia, older Australians aged over 65 years old contribute the most volunteering hours compared to other age groups, totalling on average, 104 hours per year each. With more than 600,000 not-for-profit organisations across the country relying on the generous support of volunteers, lending your time and skills benefits both you and the organisation you volunteer for. There are lots of organisations you can volunteer for that align with your hobbies or interests including arts or heritage, education and training, animal welfare, emergency services, environment, health, parenting, children and youth, religious and sports and recreation.

RESEARCH You could clean up litter and rubbish in your local community, spend time at a local animal shelter helping feed and walk dogs, volunteer at the library or put your green thumb to use in the community garden. Volunteering has a range of health benefits too, with the activity helping to provide purpose, a sense of self- worth and social enrichment.

You can speak to your local council about what volunteering opportunities may be available. Volunteering Australia can also point you in the right direction, connecting you to volunteering opportunities in your community. For more information visit www.volunteeringaustralia.org or call 02 6251 4060.

Just a few hours of volunteer work on a regular basis can make a significant difference to your happiness and mood and is associated with improved mental health.

RESPITE OPTIONS TAKING A BREAK Sometimes you or your carer need to take a break or require extra care and support, which is where respite can help. For example, if you have a fall, don’t feel comfortable being alone in your home and need support and assistance nearby, going into respite is a good option until you feel safe and strong enough to come home. For carers, respite can simply be a break away from the caring role that offers an opportunity for both you as the carer and the loved one that you care for, to take time to refresh or tackle the other tasks in life.

Respite options Accommodation and services offered through Government funded programs in the community and residential respite include:  Day care centres for half or full day respite  I n home respite services for overnight, home and personal care services A ctivity programs and social outings in groups or one-on-one  A break away from home with a support worker

With services in the home, in the community or in a residential care setting, there are a number of readily accessible respite options for you to explore. It is an excellent chance to take some time out and provides opportunities to meet new people and experience new things. Ranging from a few hours, a full day, overnight, or even a few weeks, respite can be provided in an informal setting by family and friends, or formally through service providers either in an aged care home or in your own home and community. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

RESEARCH R espite for carers of people with dementia and challenging behaviours R espite in an aged care home or overnight in a community setting R espite for employed carers and for carers seeking to return to work Centre Based Respite Care (CBRC) is another form of respite offering individualised social and recreational activities to individuals and their carers. Day programs in the form of excursions, outdoor or indoor activities, or holiday programs are also available through CBRC. To access services in a CBRC, a client assessment will be made by trained respite workers who will develop individualised needs based programs with you as a way of enhancing your quality of life. If you’d prefer to stay in your home while your carer takes a break, a support worker can come to your home instead and provide in home support. Planning for respite All respite services can be accessed on a planned basis, with some services also available on an emergency basis. Residential respite care, short term care, in home care, community care and day care can all be accessed on a planned basis, with services like residential respite care available in an emergency. If you are planning ahead for respite and looking to access residential respite care, it is important to know that this is accessible for up to 63 days each financial year, with extensions in lots of 21 days made available if further assessment finds this extra time is needed. If you need respite care, contact Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 or visit CarerGateway.gov.au to get help accessing those services. They can also help you access emergency respite options. If respite services are something you are looking to access, it is vital to know that these services are based on priority and need.

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As with most aged care services, the amount of care you receive will depend on the level of your needs and the availability of respite care services. Accessing respite When you access respite services through Government funded programs you’re generally asked to still contribute to some of the costs. Community based respite services also charge fees according to the type of service being used and your ability to pay. What you pay as part of this contribution will be discussed and agreed upon between you and the organisation you are working with to deliver your respite services, with a set rate established prior to services starting. If you are looking to access residential respite care within an aged care home, this option does come with a payable fee. The basic daily fee, and perhaps booking fee, will need to be covered by you, but will not require any accommodation charge, or any additional income- tested fees. It is important to remember that the cost of respite care will always depend on the care provider, the length of time involved and the type of care you are seeking. Accessing respite services with Government support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or Home Care Package (HCP) program will require you (and your carer) to undergo an assessment, often conducted by a Regional Assessment Service (RAS) or Aged Care Assessment Team/ Service (ACAT/S). This assessment will help to work out if you are eligible for respite services. These free assessments can be arranged by contacting My Aged Care on 1300 200 422. You can contact Carer Gateway on 1800 052 222 for advice on the types of respite and support available in your area. They may be able to help you find the respite care that best meets the needs of you and the person you care for.

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TRANSITION CARE

REBUILDING INDEPENDENCE Returning to an independent life after a setback such as a health scare or hospital admission is possible, and there is help available to get you back to living confidently in your own home. There are programs that can help you regain your independence, build strength, learn new skills or rediscover old ones. Transition Care

Transition care can be provided for up to 12 weeks, with a possibility to extend to 18 weeks if needed. To be eligible for transition care, you must be a hospital inpatient and be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team/Service (ACAT/S). Access to transition care is decided on a needs basis, not on your ability to pay fees. Talk to your hospital social worker or discharge planner to find out more details.

Transition Care Programs are designed to improve your independence and confidence after a hospital stay to help you return home rather than entering residential care. The program provides time-limited, goaloriented and therapy-focused care delivered in your own home or in a ‘live in’ setting. It often includes low intensity therapy, such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, social work and nursing support or personal care. Transition care is delivered by approved providers who will offer a combination of services tailored to your specific needs. These services can include low intensity therapy such as: C ounselling and social work  Dietetics O ccupational Therapy Support packages will also include personal care and/or nursing support for example: H elp with showering and dressing A ssistance with meals/eating M anaging incontinence www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

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SHORT TERM RESTORATIVE CARE Short-term restorative care is a Government funded program that provides a range of care and services to improve your wellbeing and help you stay independent.

You may be eligible for short term restorative care services if you:

It is similar to the Transition Care Program in that it rebuilds independence, however you can access it even when you haven’t been admitted to hospital.

W ant to stay independent

Services aim to improve your ability to complete everyday tasks, or delay or avoid the need to enter long term care. Short term restorative care can be accessed in your home, in the community, in an aged care home or a mix of these, depending on your care needs.

A re slowing down mentally and/or physically N eed help with everyday tasks For example, you may be able to access short term restorative care if your daughter who helped you cook meals for the week has recently moved away and you would like some short term assistance with cooking and meal planning. You can receive short-term restorative care for up to eight weeks (56 days) depending on your needs. You can access this care twice in any 12 month period however it’s only available if you’re not already receiving any supports through a Home Care Package, are living at home and not in an aged care home and haven’t accessed the Transition Care Program in the past six months.

WELLNESS CENTRES Wellness centres offer a range of programs and services that focus on mobility, exercise, rehabilitation and relaxation. A wellequipped wellbeing centre also provides the opportunity to address areas of concern, enhance your mobility and reduce your pain levels and risk of falls or injury. You can access a wide range of physical and emotionally rewarding activities with the guidance of allied health specialists in these centres, also known as ‘Day Therapy Centres’, ‘Health & Lifestyle Centres’ or ‘Allied Health Hubs’. 34

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Most centres offer a range of stimulating and fun activities, one-on-one or in group settings, to help improve your memory, wellbeing and independence. Some allied health and wellbeing services you may be able to access include: O ccupational therapy  Diversional therapy M assage therapy to reduce pain and maintain overall wellbeing P hysiotherapists or exercise physiologists

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 Podiatry  Hydrotherapy D ementia and cognitive support programs P ersonal training  Exercise classes for all levels, including chairbased and dance classes  Nutrition information M at and equipment-based Pilates classes S pecialised group classes for specific conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. These Wellness or Day Therapy Centres are sometimes combined with different Centre Based Care services focused more on social inclusion and community connection. The programs and services offered through this Centre Based Care all about encouraging positive ageing and wellbeing, and work to provide you with emotional, mental and physical stimulation. Some programs may be tailored to specific groups such as people from a multicultural background or those living with certain chronic conditions such as dementia. You can enjoy a range of activities which may include daily exercise programs, arts, crafts, cooking, gardening, as well as education and learning services, group excursions and respite or overnight care. There are many benefits of Centre Based Care including:  I mproved social wellbeing through companionship and connection M aintaining mental health, nutrition and exercise

P ositive impacts on overall health and wellbeing, including reducing symptoms of pain S upport for carers and families Is a wellness centre suitable for me?

If you are over the age of 65 years, the services offered at a wellness centre may be the key to better physical health to help you stay strong and independent. A range of allied health specialists may be able to support your mental agility and keep you performing day-to-day tasks properly. You may be able to claim the associated costs of a wellness centre through the Regional Assessment Services (RAS) or Aged Care Assessment (ACAP) Programs. To receive an assessment, call My Aged Care at 1800 200 422, then ask for a referral code. Based on the outcome of your assessment and the package which you are eligible for through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or Home Care Package (HCP), health and wellness services may be subsidised by the Government. You can still access the services at a wellbeing or day therapy centre privately and pay for services as you go. To do so you would need an initial consult to identify which services you need and the amount you will pay to access them. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

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SELF FUNDED CARE Depending on your financial situation, exploring the option of self funding home care services, also known as privately funded home care, could be a viable option in meeting your immediate short or long term care needs. If you are considering this ‘fee-for-service’ care option, it is important that you are aware that all service fees will be paid by you, in full, without any Government support, no matter your financial situation. The benefit to this is that you can access whatever services you want, for however long you want, whenever you want. Privately funded supports are a great option if you: H ave been approved for Government funded support, but there is currently no package available

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H ave been found ineligible for Government subsidised home care services  I f you have immediate short term care needs C an afford to pay for your own care needs without Government subsidy/support  I f you receive Government subsidised home care, but would like to top-up this support with additional self funded services The supports you can access through privately funded home care are the same as what would be available to you through the Government’s programs. But you don’t need to meet the Government’s eligibility criteria and there is generally a limited wait time. Often providers charge an hourly fee for their private home care services, and have no lockin contracts to allow your care to increase or decrease at your discretion to suit you and your changing needs.

Others may provide a variety of support services, activities and events to keep their local senior citizens engaged in the community. Services can include: F ree community buses or subsidised transport S ocial supports through clubs or men’s sheds

Your local Council provides a range of services besides their local Government duties, including services that benefit older people in their communities. Some Councils may be approved to deliver Government funded programs, like the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or Home Care Package (HCP) services. 36

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M eal programs G ym facilities and health programs M obile libraries V olunteer supports These services can differ from Council to Council. So get in touch with your local Council to see what extra general services they provide that may assist you with everyday life.

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PREPARATION

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW PREPARATION OVERVIEW Before you can access Government subsidised home care options, you need to be assessed to work out exactly what level of support you need. The aged care assessment will help decide what level of support you require. Your assessor will best be able to help you if you provide lots of information about yourself and what day to day tasks you struggle with. You can book an ACAT/S assessment by contacting My Aged Care, the agency that looks after all Government funded aged care programs. You can register by filling out an online form on the My Aged Care website or by calling 1800 200 422. When you first contact My Aged Care Contact Centre, you will be asked a number of questions about your personal circumstances and needs. These questions will be quite basic and shouldn’t take too long. All you will need is your Medicare card when you call. Examples of the questions you will be asked are: A re you currently receiving aged care services? A re you getting support from a carer or family member? C an you prepare your own meals and do housework?

D o you need assistance taking a shower or bath and do you need help getting dressed? A re there any health concerns or did you have a recent fall? D o you feel lonely or isolated? A re there any safety risks in the home? The aim of this screening is to figure out what needs and support you require and whether you are eligible for a further assessment in person. Additionally, the information you provide during this quick process will be recorded on your application, so you don’t have to stress about remembering the information you provided during your eligibility check. If you are worried about doing the eligibility check by yourself, you are allowed to have a family member, friend or carer with you for support while applying online or on the phone. You can also nominate someone to apply on your behalf. In this case, you will need to appoint your family member, friend or carer as your representative on My Aged Care.

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PREPARATION

WHAT DOCUMENTATION YOU NEED PREPARE FOR THE ASSESSMENT If you are successful in your application, the My Aged Care contact centre operator will refer you for either a RAS or ACAT/S home support assessment. If the operator determines that you would benefit from basic home support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) they will refer you for an assessment by a Regional Assessment Service (RAS). Otherwise, if the operator believes you require higher care support, a member of an Aged Care Assessment Team/Service (ACAT/S) will visit you at home to assess you for a Home Care Package (HCP) that will meet your needs.

Even though the assessments are relatively straightforward, some people like to be prepared, and there are a few simple things that you can do, or items you can gather, that can help make the assessment process as seamless and smooth as possible. Some of the documents and information to prepare include: M edicare card and a form of identification such as a driver’s licence, passport, healthcare card or Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card N otes or referrals from your doctor or other health professionals  I nformation about previous home, community or aged care services you have received A ny specific needs, goals or preferences you have that may help in developing an appropriate support plan D etails about support you receive from family, friends, or the community P repared questions and information about home care that you wish to discuss with the assessor so you have a better understanding about services or the process C ontact details for your doctor and any other health professionals you see regularly H ave a translator or Auslan interpreter arranged if you require one A sk a support person to be present for the assessment if you want one

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PREPARATION

CHECKLIST OVERVIEW From getting assessed and finding a provider to filling out forms and calculating fees, there is a lot to organise before starting any type of aged care services. To help you with this process we’ve created a checklist with important things to remember. Assessment  Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or apply online at MyAgedCare.gov.au  Organise a face-to-face assessment with a RAS or ACAT  Gather medical information for the assessment  Have your assessment  Receive successful application letter

N otify your executors, administrators, and attorneys U pdate your family and friends about your wishes and goals F ull medical history C ontact details of important people, like family or medical specialists  I nformation about your personal preferences, ie, religion, culture, allergies, etc. O ptional: Appointment a nominee to deal with Government and Centrelink on your behalf Searching for home care U se the HomeSupportGuide.com.au website to find service providers

 Have your referral codes ready

M ake a list of things that are important to you to have in service provider

 Start preparing to access home care services

M ake a short list of providers you like

Financial

M eet with service providers and ask as many questions as possible to get a good understanding of their services and applicable fees

 Referral for Government funded aged care  Assess what you can afford for fees and costs in home care  Contact Centrelink if you require financial assistance  Fill out the application for the income and asset test  Arrange a financial assessment through Services Australia, contact 1800 277 475  Optional: Engage a financial planner or advisor Important documents  Update your Will  Create an Advance Care Directive  Create an Enduring Power of Attorney  Create an Enduring Guardian

O ptional: Engage a placement consultant to assist with finding a service that best meets your needs Starting home care services F ill in an application form for a service provider U nderstand what costs are involved P rovide important documents regarding your financial situation E nter into a home care agreement with your chosen provider H ave a care plan put together S tart services www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

PREPARATION

PREPARING YOUR FINANCES

If you are eligible for a Level 1 HCP, the ‘basic daily fee,’ which everyone must pay, can not cost more than $10.88, as of July 1, 2023. For a Level 2 HCP, the basic daily fee will not be more than $11.50. The basic daily fee for a Level 3 HCP will not be more than $11.83.

PAYING FOR SERVICES If you are eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a dedicated home care package (HCP), the Government will contribute towards the cost of your home care services. How much they’ll contribute depends on your needs. The level of support you need will be based on the outcome of your Regional Assessment Services or Aged Care Assessment Teams/Services (ACAT/S) evaluation. The Government subsidy may not cover the total cost of care and if you can afford to, your home care service provider may ask you to contribute to paying for services. The fees you will be expected to pay will be outlined in a Home Care Agreement before you start receiving any support services. Providers must report their pricing models to My Aged Care and any difference between the price set by a provider and charged to you must be included in the Agreement. If you are receiving CHSP care, the cost you will need to pay will depend on the provider. They are only allowed to charge clients if they are able to cover the fees, although you have a right to receive care regardless of whether you can pay for it. Roughly 10 percent of all CHSP funding is paid through client contributions, as the Government will cover the rest. Daily fees If you have been allocated any level of HCP, you will be required to pay a basic daily fee. Support at home services vary in price across different providers and financial planning may depend on the need for support.

Support At Home Tasmania

Finally, if you require complex home care and are eligible for a Level 4 HCP, the basic daily fee will be capped at a rate of $12.14. Depending on your income you will be asked to pay an income-tested care fee on top of the daily fee amount. You will be advised of how much you may need to pay by the Department of Human Services after providing your income and asset information for testing purposes. Then, the DHS will send an advice letter which will be valid for up to 120 days. This letter will be sent to both you and your provider for transparency and will allow you to coordinate your care budget. Services Australia will review your HCP fees on a quarterly basis and determine whether you are receiving value equal to or lesser than the fees you are being charged. If you have difficulty paying the amount then financial hardship assistance may be available to cover the required costs for both the basic daily fee and income-tested care fee. However, financial hardship assistance will not cover additional care or fees worked out between you and your provider. No full Pensioner will pay an income-tested care fee and no part Pensioner will pay an incometested home care fee greater than $6,341.32 per annum. If you have an annual income of over $60,632 dollars, you will pay an incometested care fee on a sliding scale up to a total of $12,682.70 per annum (as of July 1, 2023). It’s ideal that you have an idea of your current financial situation, what you plan to do with your house and how you intend to pay for home care services. To make sure you get the best outcomes for your personal circumstances it is important to get specialist financial advice.

STEP

GETTING ASSESSED GETTING ASSESSED OVERVIEW An aged care evaluation will help to decide what level of support you require, so you can get the care that best meets your needs. You’ll be asked a number of questions so that the assessor can work out what support options are best suited to your needs. The assessment is usually done face-to-face in your home and may be done by a social worker, nurse, doctor or other health professional. If the information provided to My Aged Care contact centre leads a representative to believe that you are eligible for basic home support supplied through CHSP funding, you will be assessed by a professional from the Regional Assessment Service (RAS). If you require complex care support, an ACAT/S will be sent to visit your home and assess you, to determine what level HCP meet your needs at home or decide if you would be better suited in a residential care facility.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW How the assessment works When the assessor comes to your home for the assessment, they will ask you some questions and consider your current lifestyle. They’ll want to know if you’re receiving any formal or informal supports already, any health concerns or chronic illness and how you deal with tasks at home. They may also look at whether you are struggling with any cognitive issues or memory loss; if you are struggling at home or if you have concerns about personal safety.

Book your assessment If you’re ready to book your aged care assessment, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au where you can fill out an online form. You’ll need to provide your client user ID so the assessment team can find any information you have provided previously. If you haven’t registered with My Aged Care before, you will need to do so. You can read more about the process on page 37 of this booklet.

SCAN

to read more Assessment articles

Be open and honest about your wishes and what you believe will be necessary for a greater quality of life through support at home. Assessors may request consent from you to speak with your doctor or specialist about the impact of any health conditions on your day-to-day life. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

GETTING ASSESSED Some documents and information you may want to prepare ahead of the assessment include:

A re there culturally appropriate services in the area?

M edical history

W ho can I contact if I have any questions after the assessment?

L iving arrangements Y our support network

The ACAT/S assessment will take around an hour and at the end of the meeting the assessor will discuss the results of the assessment with you. They will review the information you have provided to determine what support option best suits you. You will receive a letter within two weeks of your assessment to let you know if you have been found eligible for aged care services. This letter will also detail the types of services you will be able to access and any further information about how to access these supports. My Aged Care reference number

C urrent services and supports you are receiving C oncerns around cognitive and behavioural functions H ow you deal with daily tasks around the home A ny health and lifestyle concerns you have The assessment is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and clarify things if you are not sure about the home care system. Your assessment should not end on a confusing or frustrating note and if you feel uncertain, ask the professional first before checking online. You may wish to ask the following questions during your assessment: W hat are my rights and responsibilities during this assessment process? W hat services are available in my area? A re there support options available for my carer? W hich financial assistance supplements am I eligible to receive? 42

Support At Home Tasmania

When you first sign up with My Aged Care you will be given a client user ID which is linked to your central client record where all the information you’ve provided will be kept. This includes your assessed needs and the Government funded care services being provided. After the assessment you’ll be given a referral code linked to the type of service you are eligible to access. The provider of your choice will need this referral code to access your information with My Aged Care and manage the referral. They’ll also be able to access the funding allocated to you. The referral code is linked to the type of service you are eligible to access. If you need the support of multiple services, you will need multiple referral codes, one for each service. If you are not given a referral code make sure you ask for one so you can discuss your needs with your preferred service provider. A provider won’t be able to start charging you fees until they begin delivering services to you.

GETTING ASSESSED

PRIORITY and WAITLISTS YOUR IMMEDIATE NEEDS It may take some time between your assessment and the letter confirming the types of support you’re eligible for, and a package becoming available. Access to Home Care Packages is managed through a national pool of all available packages. After approval for a HCP you will be placed in a ‘queue’ until a suitable package becomes available. With a lot of demand for HCP unfortunately this means it may take some time before you can begin accessing the benefits of your HCP. There are a number of options to consider to access care while you are waiting for your package to become available. Temporary access to the CHSP You can discuss with your assessor whether there is the option to access assistance through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) to have some temporary services put in place while you wait for your HCP.

This is known as an interim package and means you can access services sooner, rather than wait until your level package becomes available. An interim package is only available for people who require a Level 2, 3 or 4 HCP package. Unfortunately, interim packages do have a wait time of a couple of months. Your ACAT/S assessor should discuss the option of interim packages with you while being assessed. The good thing is, if you accept an interim package, you will not lose your place in the waiting list for your approved HCP package level. Private home care While you are waiting for your HCP, or even your interim package, you may choose to pay for services you require through non-Government funded providers. These are private home care providers that are not regulated or funded by the Federal Government. Learn more about private home care on page 36.

Getting access to CHSP is a much quicker process than a HCP. The assessor will determine if this option is the best for you, as the CHSP only provides entry level home care assistance. You will need to pay towards some of the services, but the Government will subsidise most of the help you receive.

You will receive the same quality of care through private providers, but it will not be subsidised by the Government, so you will need to pay for these services yourself in full.

You can receive low level services for garden and home maintenance assistance, cleaning around the home and food preparation, basic personal care and nursing services, and much more.

Talk to your doctor

Think about whether you can afford private home care and if you require assistance right away.

Interim package

The best person to talk to about your health issues and what to do is your doctor. There may be some services available through your GP that can provide assistance while you wait for a HCP.

You may be able to access supports through a lower level HCP than what you were assessed for while you wait.

The Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program is available to older Australians who have complex care or chronic conditions. www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

GETTING ASSESSED You can receive five fully-covered sessions with an allied health professional for a range of ailments. This could include conditions like asthma, stroke, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal conditions, and more, however, there isn’t a list of “eligible” conditions you need to meet.

Chat with your family and friends about whether they can continue to support you until you have access to your Home Care Package or if there are some additional tasks you need help with. Urgent needs If you suddenly have a downturn in health and urgently need the assistance of a Home Care Package, your position in the waiting list could be moved to the top of the list. While you will always move up on the waiting list from the date you were approved, high priority is given to people who are in more urgent need of a HCP to remain living at home safely and receiving the care they need. You can ask for a reassessment when your health needs get worse or change, which will help speed up the process of getting access to a HCP. Explore your options

You do need to have the condition for over six months. The program is for patients who need a structured care approach to recover or manage their illness. Your doctor will plan and coordinate the care of these complex conditions through other professionals, like physiotherapists, dietitians, audiologists, podiatrists, psychologists, and other health experts. You need to be recommended by your doctor for the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program to receive allied health assistance. Keep in mind, some providers may not accept this program, so make sure you check that this is fully covered by the allied health provider you approach. Ask family and friends for help Your family and friends may already be providing some form of informal care to help you manage at home. 44

Support At Home Tasmania

If you would prefer just to wait for your package to be available or are not in a rush for your HCP, then you can use this time to research and visit providers, and to explore the costs of home care. Meanwhile you may be able to make some small adjustments in your home so you can continue living safely, such as removing clutter and any falls risks, and have emergency plans in place. When you reach the front of the queue and a package is assigned to you, you can begin to receive care from the provider of your choice. You have 56 days from the date you were assigned a package to find a provider and commence services. You can request an extension, for example if you have trouble finding a service provider, but if you haven’t started receiving care within 84 days, the package will return to the queue and be assigned to the next person in line.

Support to live independently at home. • Nursing care • Personal care • Assistance with day to day tasks like housework and meal preparation • Social support such as shopping and attending appointments. Our local teams are friendly, reliable and clinically trained. We are here to support your independence and wellbeing. To find out more, give us a call or email us at

agedcare@anglicare-tas.org.au

1800 466 300 | anglicare-tas.org.au 45

STEP

FINDING PROVIDERS

04 FINDING PROVIDERS

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FINDING PROVIDERS OVERVIEW Choosing which home care provider to let into your home and trust with providing support is an important and personal decision – one that you want to think carefully about and shouldn’t rush. You may want to start by writing down what you are looking for in a provider and what is important to you. Are low fees important to you or would you like a provider who can support your cultural needs? Do you want the same support worker to assist you each time and do you want to receive support on specific days or are more flexible with time? It’s a good idea to discuss your wishes and options with your family and support network, as they may be able to help you research, provide independent opinions on providers or share personal experiences. It’s useful to create a shortlist of providers in your local area, which may help narrow down your search. You can find nearby providers:  I n this Support at Home guide, there is a directory listing providers starting on page 49 O nline on www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au O n the Government’s My Aged Care Service Finder, www.myagedcare.gov.au B y contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422

Support At Home Tasmania

It’s important to be prepared before meeting or speaking with a potential provider. Take the time to make a list of what supports are important to you and how potential providers can deliver the services you need and can help you manage at home. When considering a potential provider take your time to do some research: L ook at the provider’s website, social media pages and online reviews C heck out their credentials such as quality certifications and industry awards D o they have any past or present sanctions or notices of non-compliance? You can ask them directly or check the Government’s noncompliance finder online tool – www.myagedcare.gov.au/complianceinformation/location When you call a potential provider for the first time pay attention to how they answer your call. Is staff friendly and happy to answer your questions or are they rushing you to get off the phone?

SCAN

to read more about Finding Providers

FINDING PROVIDERS

Ask questions Questions to ask potential providers could include: H ow long have they been operating? W ill you have a dedicated care manager? C an you choose who is going to provide certain services? W here and when will they provide your support? W hat costs are associated with their services?

H ow are they different to other service providers? What is their point of difference? A re their staff qualified? Do they have police checks? D o they have an understanding of and experiences with supporting people from different cultures and backgrounds? W hat checks do they complete to ensure quality of service?

W hat are the hourly rates?

D o they offer private as well as Government funded services?

D o they charge exit fees? If so, how much? How much notice do you need to give?

 I f they have past or present sanctions, how did they deal/are dealing with them?

D o they charge case management fees?

W hat is the process for, and how do they handle, complaints?

W ill there be any out-of-pocket expenses, like travel fees? H ow often will your plan and the services you receive be reviewed?

When meeting with a potential provider, take a copy of your Home Care Package approval letter and support plan and if possible the outcome of your income assessment as this will help with your discussions.

HOME CARE PROVIDERS LIST There is a wide range of service providers that deliver home care and support services to members of the community who live at home. If you have been approved for Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) funding or a Home Care package (HCP) you can choose any provider to deliver the services you need. On the next few pages you’ll find alphabetical lists of providers in Tasmania. The first directory table lists general in home care providers and the different supports they can provide in your home or community. The table also indicates whether services can be funded under CHSP or whether you’re able to access services privately funded.

The Home Care Package table lists approved providers and the different levels of HCP they can support. Some providers may only provide services in one specific area while others can service multiple locations. To help you know which approved providers offer services in a certain region, we’ve included coloured bars down the left hand side of the table. You can use the colour coded map on page 48 as a reference for what council districts are grouped in which region. For example Derwent Valley is listed in the Southern region group.

www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

FINDING PROVIDERS

KING ISLAND Currie Whitemark

This map provides you with a geographical reference to the LGA areas in Tasmania.

Grassy

FLINDERS

North Western Northern Southern Stanley

BURNIE

DE V

GEORGE TOWN

CENTRAL COAST

DORSET Scottsdale

LATROBE

Exeter

WEST TAMAR

Sheffield

WARATAH-WYNYARD

Bridport

T e

ON PO R

ui n ng Pe

er Ul v

CIRCULAR HEAD

st on

Bu rn

Smithton

St Helens

LAUNCESTON

KENTISH

BREAK O‘DAY

Launceston Deloraine

Longford

MEANDER VALLEY

Rosebery

Poatina

Fingal

NORTHERN MIDLANDS Bicheno

Zeehan

Campbell Town Ross Queenstown

Strahan

Swansea

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS

GLAMORGANSPRING BAY

WEST COAST Oatlands Bothwell

SOUTHERN MIDLANDS

Ouse

Kempton

Hamilton

Triabunna Orford

BRIGHTON

Maydena

SORELL

New Norfolk

DERWENT VALLEY

CLARENCE

HOBART

Dunalley

Kingston Huonville

Geeveston

TASMAN Cygnet

KINGBOROUGH

HUON VALLEY Dover

Support At Home Tasmania

Scamander

Westbury

Alonnah

Nubeena

Aged Care Guide

TASMANIA 2023/24

PHONE (03)

Activ8 Health Club

02 8544 0487

AHP Disability Services

1800 247 342

Alternative Answers

0414 608 341

Notes

CHS

In Home Care Services

PF Priv unded ate Se DVA ly Fun rvices S e r d ed VHC vices Servi ces Se Dem rvices ent Dom ia Ca re es Hea tic Ass ista lth S Hom ervic nce es e Mea Mainte ls & nan Med /or S ce / Ga rde ica hop Pall tion S ping ning upe iati v r e visi C Per on son are Pha al Care rma Res ceuti pite cal Soc Care Delive ry ial & Tran /or R spo ecrea rt tion al

FINDING PROVIDERS

9 9 9

DPS Web Advert Page ID 40849 61648

Note 1

40950

58043 9 55116 Angels Care Australia 1800 264 357 9 999999999999999 45 20953 Anglicare TAS Home Care Services 1800 466 300 9 9 Note 2 999999999999 20030 Australian Recreational Therapy Association 02 9887 5035 In home care for private clients 9 38811 Australian Red Cross Aged Care Services TAS 6235 6077 9 9 9 99 Note 3 40099 Avant Innovations 02 8315 2834 9 22200 Better Living Home Care Packages (TAS) 1300 307 344 9 999999999999 41241 Bright Diets 0413 774 411 9 14129 Calvary Community Care Tasmania Home Care 1800 527 272 9 99999 999999999 Note 4 37128 Calvary Home Maintenance & Modifications 1300 660 022 9 9 18096 Campbell Town Health & Community Services 6774 8000 9 9 Gardening not available 9 99 9 999 54-55 38066 Care Forward Allied Health Services 1300 364 876 9 54-55 21403 Care Forward Home Support Services 1300 364 876 9 9 99999 9 99 Note 5 21553 Careseekers 1300 765 465 9 99 99 99999 Note 6 63124 Coastal Dietetics 0488 903 659 9 Community Based Support Home Maintenance OBC 21844 1300 227 827 9 9 Note 7 9 Program OBC 17524 Community Based Support In-Home Care Services 1300 227 827 9 9 99 99999 999 Note 8 17525 Community Care TASMANIA 1300 722 400 9 9 99 99 999999 63349 Continuity Care Australia Pty Ltd 1800 012 273 99 99 999999999 17527 Corumbene Community Services 6261 7330 9 99999 999999999 Note 9 55385 Dixons Pharmacy 6442 2132 Note 10 9 55321 Empower Healthcare 1300 043 578 9 49136 Encara | Allied Health 1300 761 965 9 19162 Family Based Care Tasmania 1800 684 098 9 99 999999999999 45647 Freedom Home Care 6344 8244 9 99 99 99 17533 Glenview Home Care 6277 8800 9 9 99999999 999 38352 Guardian Network Home Care Services TAS 1300 932 273 9 99999999 999 38046 Guardian Network Home Maintenance Services 1300 932 273 9 9 62822 Happy Living Home Care Packages 1300 911 728 9 999999 99 99 48202 Healing Through Arts 0423 748 060 9 39049 Home Caring 1300 875 377 9 99 9999 999 62079 Home Instead Hobart 6240 3323 9 99 9999 9 19818 Home Modifications Australia (MOD.A) 0412 921 221 9 Includes home modifications Andrew Stewart - Hearing Connections

0411 757 622

Note: 1. Nutrition, Natural Medicine, Life Coaching, Personal Training, Remedial Massage, Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Mental Health First Aid 2. Statewide service; includes access to assistive technology & mobility equipment, carer support & pet care 3. Services provided as daily telephone support through Telecross 4. Services supporting independence at home and in the community 5. Services also available to private clients in northern, north western and southern areas

6. Contact us directly if you need help finding an aged care worker 7. Home maintenance services are available statewide for people aged 64 & under; for people aged 65 & over, services are available in southern Tasmania only. Due to high demand for this services, there is sometimes a waitlist. 8. Spring cleaning and garden maintenance are an annual service. 9. Services available to DVA and private clients 10. Incontinence aids, diabetic aids, aids to daily living, general health aids, Prescription storage option, Medadvisor Store

ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse DVA Department of Veterans' Affairs LGBTIQ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse LGBTIQ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning NESB Non English Speaking Background NESB Non English Speaking Background VHC Veterans' Home Care IBC Inside Back Cover IFC Inside Front Cover OBC Outside Back49 Cover Ethnic/cultural notes should not imply exclusivity. All services are multicultural. IBC Inside Back Cover IFC Inside Front Cover OBC Outside Back Cover

AgedCareGuide.com.au

TASMANIA 2023/24

PHONE (03)

I Hate Cooking - In Home Cooking Support From Passionate Cooks. integratedliving Australia Tasmania

Notes

CHS

In Home Care Services

PF Priv unded ate Se DVA ly Fun rvices S e r d ed v VHC ices Servi ces Se Dem rvices ent i a Dom Ca re es Hea tic Ass ista lth S e Hom rvic nce e M es Mea ainte nan ls Med &/or S ce / Ga icat hopp rden ing Pall ion S ing upe iati Per ve Care rvision son Pha al Care rm Res aceuti pite cal D Soc Care elive ry ial Tran &/or R spo ecrea rt tion al

FINDING PROVIDERS

DPS Web Advert Page ID

53390 9 9 17529 Short Term Restorative Care available. 9999 999 99 38351 integratedliving Northern (TAS) 1300 782 896 9 Note 1 9 999 9 62081 Just Better Care Hobart 1300 930 239 9 99 99 99 999 62083 Just Better Care Tasmania 1300 930 239 9 99 99999 999 18094 KinCare TAS 1300 110 254 9 9 99999999 999 64308 Kingston Dry Cleaning 03 6229 5298 9 9 22191 KNC Home Care Packages 02 9988 4966 9 9 99 99999 999 24 49557 Lite n' Easy 13 15 12 Shopping excluded 9 9 45720 Lonvara 0411 952 410 9 49573 Lusio Rehab the home of LusioMATE 1300 158 746 9 22109 Mable 1300 736 573 9 999999999999 17542 May Shaw Home Care 6257 9100 9 99 99 99 9 999 22041 MCWA - Aged Care With A Difference 9318 1111 9 99 99 99999 999 CALD 45741 Mersey Community Care Association 6424 8883 9 99 9 99 999 17545 Migrant Resource Centre Home Care 6221 0999 9 9 Note 2 61859 mobility Aged Care 1300 438 227 9 9999 9 99 63109 National 360 Tasmania 7019 9306 9 53721 Nourish'd Meals 07 3132 3957 9 9 Shopping excluded 9 9 IFC 17523 OneCare Home Care Services Tasmania 1300 555 409 9 99999 999999999 55466 Pinky Community Support 0439 189 886 99 99 99 99 7 37938 Plena Healthcare 13 60 33 9 21889 Prompt Care TAS 1800 472 273 9 9 999999999999 40584 Quantum Reading Learning Vision 1300 883 853 9 99 45784 Radiance Hobart Counselling & Self-Development 0409 191 342 9 18679 Remedy Health Care 1300 734 224 9 999 99 9 99 22069 Right at Home RightCare 07 3054 1360 99999999999 9 9 43412 Safety and Mobility 02 9983 9520 9 4 17537 Salvos Home Care TAS 1300 111 227 9 9 99 999999999 40570 Seating Matters 1300 001 050 9 64309 Shoreline Dry Cleaning 03 6247 6323 9 9 60946 Simply Nutrition Dietitians 1300 380 694 9 South Eastern Community Care - Home and 19532 6269 1200 9 9 99999999 999 Community Care Services 54699 Suzanne Vandeleur 0408 059 395 9 19268 TabTimer - helping to keep people on time 1300 822 846 9 9 Medication reminder product 9 9 9 38183 The CareSide 1300 854 080 9 9 99 999999999 32-33 45667 The District Nurses 6208 0500 9 32-33 19502 The District Nurses Home Care Services 6208 0500 9 9 Includes end of life care 99999999 999 32-33 19510 The District Nurses Private Services 6208 0500 9 9 999999999999 40696 The INS Group 02 4254 6226 9 0410 526 477

1300 782 896 9

Note: 1. Veteran's Home Care is only available for nursing services.

2. CALD; counselling & social work services available

ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse DVA Department of Veterans' Affairs LGBTIQ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse LGBTIQ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning NESB Non English Speaking Background NESB Speaking Background VHC Veterans' Home Care IBC Inside Back Cover IFC Inside Front Cover OBC Outside Back Cover 50Non English Ethnic/cultural notes should not imply exclusivity. All services are multicultural. IBC Inside Back Cover IFC Inside Front Cover OBC Outside Back Cover

Aged Care Guide

TASMANIA 2023/24

PHONE (03)

Notes

CHS

In Home Care Services

PF Priv unded ate Se DVA ly Fun rvices S e r d ed VHC vices Servi ces Se Dem rvices ent Dom ia Ca re es Hea tic Ass ista lth S Hom ervic nce e M es Mea ainte nan ls Med &/or S ce / Ga icat hopp rden ing Pall ion S ing upe iati Per ve Care rvision son Pha al Care rm Res aceuti pite cal D Soc Care elive ry ial Tran &/or R spo ecrea rt tion al

FINDING PROVIDERS

The Parkside Foundation

6243 6044

The Parkside Foundation Respite Options

6243 6044

Therapeutic Pillow International

8585 6685

Therapy Alliance Group

1300 661 945

Toosey Community Home Support Program

6391 1202

Unique Care and Accommodation

0481 054 899

Uniting AgeWell Respite and Carer Support, Tas

1300 783 435 9

VisAbility Tasmania

6232 1222

West Tamar Physiotherapy

6394 4111

Wyndarra Centre In Home Care

6452 2722

99 99

Note: 1. Includes services for clients with dementia and/or challenging behaviours 2. Flexible respite available; Allied Health available

9 99 99

9 9

9 999 Note 1

DPS Web Advert Page ID 45835 19520 40712 44825

999 Note 2

9999 999 99999 9

9 9 99999

17561 40726 IBC 61763

Note 3

38326 45693

999

17565

3. In home services; orientation & mobility training

DPS PUBLICATIONS Empowering you to make informed choices with resources that guide and educate.

PUBLICATIONS

Our printed guides provide everything you need to know at your fingertips.

WEBSITES

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ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse DVA Department of Veterans' Affairs LGBTIQ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse LGBTIQ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning NESB Non English Speaking Background NESB Non English Speaking Background VHC Veterans' Home Care IBC Inside Back Cover IFC Inside Front Cover OBC Outside Back51 Cover Ethnic/cultural notes should not imply exclusivity. All services are multicultural. IBC Inside Back Cover IFC Inside Front Cover OBC Outside Back Cover

Aged Care Guide

TASMANIA 2023/24

FINDING PROVIDERS

How to read the HCP table

The table on the next few pages lists approved HCP providers in alphabetical order, detailing the HCP levels they offer and if they offer any package supplements. Ethnicity, country or cultural groups listed under ‘Notes’ applies to all package levels in that row. If service providers have an advertisement in this Guide, then the page number of the advert is listed in red under ‘Advert Page’. The ‘DPS Web ID’ number can be used as a unique identifier to find out more information on HomeSupportGuide.com.au . The same type of care and services are provided under each HCP level of care, and these may include transport, domestic assistance, social support, personal care, home maintenance, home modification, nursing care, food services and medication assistance. The hours of care are increased at each level of care, i.e. more hours of care and services are provided under HCP Level 4 and the least under HCP Level 1. Based on your care needs, an ACAT assessment will determine what level of care you are eligible for and if any supplements apply to you. These icons help you find the packages that are most suitable for you.

North Western Northern Southern

General packages suitable for all eligible clients

Packages for people with dementia

Packages for people with housing needs and at risk of homelessness

A – Z list of all approved providers who are eligible to deliver Home Care Packages in Tasmania SERVICE PROVIDER

n Anglicare TAS Home Care Packages North

Anglicare TAS Home Care Packages North West

n n Baldwin Living HomeServe Tasmania n Baptcare Home Help Orana nnn Better Living Home Care Packages (TAS) nnn Calvary Community Care Tasmania Home Care Packages n Care Forward Home Care Packages North n Care Forward Home Care Packages North West n Care Forward Home Care Packages South n Christian Homes Tasmania Home Care Services n Community Based Support Home Care Packages nnn Community Care TASMANIA nnn Continuity Care Australia Pty Ltd n Corumbene Community Services nnn Family Based Care Tasmania nn Feros Care/ At-home aged care in Tasmania nn Freedom Home Care (TAS) n Glenview Home Care nnn Guardian Network Home Care Services TAS nnn Guardian Network Home Maintenance Services nnn Guardian Network Nursing/Support Services n Happy Living Home Care Packages Anglicare TAS Home Care Packages South

Note: 1. Bhutanese, CALD, LGBTIQ, NESB, Nepalese

Packages for people who are financially or socially disadvantaged

Home Care Packages Levels

Packages for people who live in rural, remote or isolated areas

Packages for Veterans

Home Care Packages Supplement

PHONE (03)

Notes

Cultural Environment

DPS Web Advert Page ID

1800 466 300 1234 8ZetR

45 19157

1800 466 300 1234 8Zet

45 21856

1800 466 300 1234 8Zet

45 19156

1800 911 989 1234 8ZR

1234 8Zet 1300 307 344 1234 8ZetR 1800 527 272 1234 8ZeR 1300 364 876 1234 8ZetR 1300 364 876 1234 8ZetR 1300 364 876 1234 8ZetR 6239 3516 1234 8ZR 1300 227 827 1234 8ZetR 1300 722 400 1234 8ZetRg 1800 012 273 1234 8ZeYtR 6261 7330 1234 8et 1800 684 098 1234 8tg 1300 418 418 1234 8e 1300 480 771 1234 8ZtR 6277 8800 1234 8ZeYtg 1300 932 273 1234 8Z 1300 932 273 1234 8 1300 932 273 1234 8 1300 911 728 1234 8ZetR

22075

13 22 78

17562 22200 14693 54-55 20954 54-55 20955 54-55 20956 17534 OBC 21845 Note 1

17525 63349 17527

Note 2

19162 20732 18772

CALD, Filipino, LGBTIQ, Polish

17533 38352 38046 38048 62822

2. ATSI, CALD, Chinese, Filipino, Indonesian, Irish, LGBTIQ, Malaysian, Singaporean

ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically LGBTIQ Gay, Lesbian, Gay,Transgender, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning EnglishBackground Speaking Background ATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Diverse LGBTIQ Lesbian, Bisexual, Intersex andIntersex Questioning NESB NonNESB EnglishNon Speaking Ethnic/cultural notes not imply exclusivity. All services are multicultural. InsideBack BackCover Cover IFCIFCInside Inside Front Cover OBCOBCOutside Outside Ethnic/cultural notes should notshould imply exclusivity. All services are multicultural. IBCIBCInside Front Cover BackBack CoverCover

AgedCareGuide.com.au

TASMANIA 2023/24

North Western Northern Southern

FINDING PROVIDERS

A – Z list of all approved providers who are eligible to deliver Home Care Packages in Tasmania SERVICE PROVIDER

PHONE (03)

Home Care Packages Levels

Home Care Packages Supplement

6495 1570 1234 8ZtR n HealthWest Community Services Home Caring 1300 875 377 1234 8Zeg nn n 6264 7108 1234 8ZetR n Huon Regional Care Home Care 6228 3899 1234 8ZetR n Independent Health Care Service Hobart Independent Health Care Service Launceston 6228 3899 1234 8ZetR n Independent Health Care Service Southern Tasmania 6228 3899 1234 8ZetR n integratedliving Australia Tasmania 1300 782 896 1234 8ZetR nn n 1300 782 896 1234 8ZetR n integratedliving Northern (TAS) 1300 930 239 1234 8Z n Just Better Care Hobart Karadi Aboriginal Corporation Aged Care 6272 3511 1234 8tRg n KinCare TAS 1300 110 254 1234 8ZetR nn n 02 9988 4966 1234 8Z n KNC Home Care Packages 1300 497 442 1234 8ZeYtR nnn Let's Get Care (TAS) Lite n' Easy 13 15 12 1234 8 nn n May Shaw Home Care 6257 9100 1234 8ZetR nn 9318 1111 1234 8ZetRg nnn MCWA - Aged Care With A Difference 6376 1355 1234 8ZetR n Medea Park Residential Care Migrant Resource Centre Home Care 6221 0999 1234 8Zg n OneCare Home Care Services Tasmania 1300 555 409 1234 8ZetR nn n 1800 472 273 1234 8ZetR nnn Prompt Care TAS 6243 3100 1234 8e n Queen Victoria Home Community Care QVCare Home Care Package 6243 3100 1234 8Zeg n Regis Home Care Tasmania North 1300 188 740 1234 8Ze n Regis Home Care Tasmania South 1300 998 100 1234 8Ze n nnn Respect Home Care (formerly Masonic Care Tasmania Home Care) 1300 144 144 1234 8ZtR 07 3054 1360 1234 8ZR nnn Right at Home RightCare Salvos Home Care TAS 1300 111 227 1234 8Ze n n SETAC Community Care 6295 1125 1234 8ZetRg n 6269 1200 1234 8ZetRg n South Eastern Community Care - Home Care Packages 6185 0700 1234 8ZeYtR nnn Southern Cross Care Home & Community Services The CareSide 1300 854 080 1234 8ZetR nn n The District Nurses Home Care Packages 6208 0500 1234 8ZeYtR nn n 6243 6044 1234 8ZeRg n The Parkside Foundation Home Care Packages 6391 1202 1234 8Zt n Toosey Community Care Uniting AgeWell Tasmania North Home Care 6715 7000 1234 8Zet n Uniting AgeWell Tasmania North West Home Care 6715 7000 1234 8Zetg nn 6289 8800 1234 8ZeYtg n Uniting AgeWell Tasmania South Home Care nnn Vege2go(vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, low fodmap meal provider) 0450 876 088 1234 8 9376 1122 1234 8 n Wintringham Southern Tasmania Wynyard Care Centre 6442 1760 12 n 8Z

Note: 1. Arabic, Asian, Chinese, Greek, Hindi, Indian, Italian, Vietnamese 2. Includes packages for clients with challenging behaviours 3. Bosnian, CALD, Croatian, European, Former Yugoslavian, Italian, LGBTIQ, Macedonian, Maltese, Russian, Serbian, Slavic, Turkish, Ukrainian 4. Priority for clients with short term memory loss

Notes

Advert Page

DPS Web ID 17557 39049

Note 1

17540 14 22382 14 22383 14 17535 17529 38351 62081 ATSI

17559

Note 2

18094 22191 38288

Fee for service available

24 49557 17542 22041

Note 3

15453 CALD

17545 IFC 17523 21889 13 21842

ATSI, CALD, LGBTIQ

13 15507 17536

Note 4 Note 5

19153 21 17541

Note 7

22069 4 17537

ATSI

17550

CALD, Polish

17551

Note 6

17521 38183 32-33 21433 CALD

17547

DVA Community Nursing

17561 IBC 17522

ATSI

IBC 17554

CALD

IBC 17528 63754 22322 18084

5. Approved DVA Nursing Contractor, private fee-for-service available. 6. Oxygen and Enteral Feeding Supplement 7. Speak to us about our competitive private funding service rates as you wait for a Home Care Package.

ATSIATSI Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander andandLinguistically Non English English Speaking SpeakingBackground Background Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander CALD CALDCulturally Culturally LinguisticallyDiverse Diverse LGBTIQ LGBTIQ Lesbian, Lesbian,Gay, Gay,Bisexual, Bisexual,Transgender, Transgender,Intersex Intersexand andQuestioning Questioning NESB NESB Non Ethnic/cultural notes should are multicultural. multicultural. IBC Cover Inside Back IFC Cover Inside Front Cover Ethnic/cultural notes shouldnotnotimply implyexclusivity. exclusivity.All Allservices services are IBC Inside Back IFC Cover Inside Front OBCCover OutsideOBC Back Outside Cover Back53

Tasmanian, not-for-profit, statewide, since 1999. Home Care coordinated by nurses and health professionals to access a range of services, such as: • Allied health services • Nursing • Nutrition & diet • Personal care services • Assistance with household chores • Transport • Home & garden maintenance • And more

“I needed to know professionals were at the heart of Mum’s healthcare.” HOME CARE CLIENT’S DAUGHTER

Tasmanian, not-for-profit, statewide, since 1999. 55

FINDING PROVIDERS

BEFORE STARTING SERVICES Once you decide on a home care provider to deliver you services, they should document any arrangements made with you through a Care Agreement.

It can be a very important document in the future if there is an issue with the provider you chose or the care you are receiving.

The Care Agreement is a legal document between you and your provider that outlines what you should expect from the care they have agreed to deliver.

Your home care agreement should include everything you discussed as well as everything involved with receiving home care services.

Your home care agreement holds every bit of information about what your service provider will be providing to you in the way of care, as well as outlining what is expected of you when receiving this care. It will explain the ins and outs of the fees and charges that you need to pay, outlines all the services and care you will receive including who is providing the care, and will also state your responsibility as a recipient and the organisation’s responsibility as a provider.

What is in the agreement

Consumer advocate, COTA Australia, advises seniors to ensure the agreement covers the following: Y our name A representative on your behalf (if you have one) W ho the provider is D ate of when the services start T he date when you signed the agreement L evel of your Home Care Package Y our rights to advocacy assistance S upplements you are eligible for A n attached care plan around care and service H ow often your care plan should be reviewed W ho will be providing the care services to you, for example, company staff or other suppliers of care C ost of the services, it should be detailed by the cost per hour of care as well as any surcharges that might apply L ate fees or cancellation fees, for if you don’t pay for your services on time or cancel a service last minute E quipment that you may be hiring or purchasing through the service or within your package

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FINDING PROVIDERS

A ll additional charges or services outside of the Government contribution and the agreed-upon fees you would pay towards your package  I nformation about your rights and responsibilities C onditions of a suspension as well as the fees and charges involved with a suspension of services S ecurity of tenure, which guarantees all care and services will meet your in home care agreement as long as you also meet the conditions you have outlined A statement from the provider about providing services through a consumer-directed care approach  I nformation about the organisation’s complaint process T ermination of agreement information, process and ‘exit’ fees  I nformation about your responsibility providing a safe home environment, as part of workplace health and safety  I nformation about your right to confidentiality and privacy while receiving services and care from the provider It’s important to remember that this agreement is legally binding, so you should seek extra assistance with assessing your proposed home care agreement and make sure you understand it before signing on the dotted line. Negotiating your agreement When looking through your agreement, write down any queries or questions you have about any areas that confuse you or need clarification. All home care agreements should be provided in plain language so that they are easy to understand. The provider who you want to get services from is obligated to make sure you understand everything within your home care agreement.

It is completely acceptable for you to negotiate fees and prices with the provider. Once they provide the details of how much things may cost, you can do research into other providers and compare pricings. This means you can negotiate with your potential providers to get the best value for money for you. If your provider is not meeting all of your queries and questions, it may be a good idea to engage an advocate or advocacy group to assist you with this process. They can also help you with negotiating your home care agreement. Additionally, if English is not your first language, you can contact the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) for assistance with translating the home care agreement into your preferred language. Care Plan Your Care Agreement will include a care plan, which includes what types of services you will receive, who will provide these services and when, and where these services will be provided, as well as any care needs or individual goals you would like to achieve. The care plan is an important component of a home care agreement with a provider. Your service provider will work with you to create a care plan that best meets your needs and circumstances. During the process, you may wish to involve a friend, family member or carer to help you design a care plan that is tailored to your needs. What’s in the plan The provider delivering services to you will take into account support you already receive, whether that is from family, carers and local community services, and tailor the care plan to meet needs that are not yet being met. The main components of your care plan include: W hat your needs are for home care W hat services you can expect to receive at home and in the community www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

FINDING PROVIDERS

Y our goal, wishes and preferences for home care services T he cost of services and what you will need to pay W ho from the organisation will provide these services  I nformation on when they will provide these services It will also outline your agreed arrangements for the management of your care, your level of involvement and the expectations around any formal assessments. Consider your goals Before your meeting to discuss your care plan, you should think about your personal goals and wishes for the home care services you will receive. You should ask yourself a number of questions including what brings you joy and meaning in your life, what things are working at home and what isn’t, and what improvements can be made to make your daily life better. For instance, you may be wanting help with bigger jobs around the home such as cleaning the bathroom or mopping the kitchen floor, but not completely give up the day to day chores that make you feel independent such as doing the laundry or preparing meals. Reablement may be a goal that you want to work towards where your provider assists you in working on your current skills. Or, if you are keen on remaining connected with your community, you can outline your wishes to regularly visit places in your area and catch up with friends and family or social groups. Once you have an idea of how you want home care to improve your life, you can sit down with your provider and collaborate on your home care plan.

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Codesigning the care plan Your home care provider will refer to your aged care assessment results for services and supports you need while also taking into account your personal goals. When putting together your care plan, your provider will consider a number of things while sorting out what services you need to receive. For every service they put on your care plan, your provider will look at its suitability for your care needs, whether it finds within your current budget from the Government, if you have specific care workers you wish to work with, and what supports you are currently receiving from friends and family. Your provider will also talk you through all the costs of services and whether you have enough funds to cover all the services you need or want. Sometimes, you may need to prioritise the services that are most important to your health and wellbeing to fit within your budget. If you don’t have enough funds for the services you need, your provider can provide you with additional services if you agree to pay the cost. Additionally, if you are non-English speaking and require a worker who can talk with you in the same language but your provider can’t fulfil this need, your provider may discuss the option of having an interpreter included in the costs of your home care plan. There will also be a section explaining how the provider will measure your progress in meeting your goals in your home care plan. Once you have finalised your home care plan with your provider, they will provide you with a detailed copy within the first 14 days of your signing or entering a home care agreement with your provider.

STEP

MANAGING SERVICES

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW CAN YOU CHANGE PROVIDERS IF YOU WANT TO? Throughout your aged care journey, there may come a time where your needs change or your supports no longer suit you. Perhaps you would like to change providers, adjust your services, or require a higher level of support. For example, you have received Level 2 Home Care Package (HCP) supports for two years but your mobility has significantly decreased over that time and you would like to access higher level supports that can better assist you. Or perhaps you’ve decided you don’t need as much help with meal planning but would prefer some extra transport assistance to get out in the community and use your funding for that instead. Sometimes circumstances change and you need to change home care providers. This may be due to you moving to another area, or if you need to access services that are not offered through your current provider. Whatever your reasons, it’s good to know that you can change providers if you want to. Before changing providers you should check your Home Care Agreement on any conditions for terminating services with the provider, such as exit fees and notice periods. You must always let your service provider know in writing that you are ending your agreement with them including the date that you will be finishing any services.

How often should you review your needs Accessing support services at home, either from private home care providers or through Government funded home care services, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a Home Care Package (HCP), will help to make life easier and maintain your independence for longer. However, your needs may change over time — you may (re)gain some skills or strength so you need less support or your health could decline over time meaning you may need greater or different types of care. It is vital that you monitor your own needs and take stock of what assistance you really require at home. This is where a review of your care and services can really help. Your first step to revising your supports is to contact your provider and ask for a care plan and budget review meeting. Service providers have an ongoing responsibility to monitor and review the services they provide under your care plan to ensure your needs and goals are being met.

SCAN

to read more information about Managing Services www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

MANAGING SERVICES A review should take place at least every 12 months but can also be done at your request of if your circumstances change.

If you are accessing private home care services, any changes to your care will need to be negotiated with your private provider.

Personal goals are an important part of your care plan and should be taken into consideration during a review. Goals such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle or achieving independence in mobility, can guide your choice of care and services. These goals can change over time or once you achieve some goals you may want to add new ones to the list.

After the review, make sure your service provider gives you a copy of any agreed changes to the care plan for your records. Keep in mind that your care plan and budget allocation cannot be changed without your agreement.

If your health needs change, then you need to review your current services and adapt to these changes. This could mean the addition of new supports you require or removing services that no longer suit your needs. Reviewing your HCP or CHSP could even mean a change of providers if your current provider can’t meet your support needs. When do I need to be reassessed? If you were assessed as having low level care needs, but your needs have increased since then, you can request a reassessment by your local ACAT/ACAS to determine if you are eligible for high level care. You must be reassessed to move between different levels of Home Care Packages. If you are already receiving a Level 4 package, you may need to consider other options, including: reviewing your care plan to identify alternatives and priorities (for example, reducing higher cost services, such as support on weekends, and replacing with informal supports) purchasing additional private services the benefits of residential care, either as short term respite to complement your package or as a long-term option. You will receive a new referral code when you get reassessed which you need to give to your current provider, or your new service provider if you decide to change providers.

Support At Home Tasmania

Steps to choosing a new provider If, after reviewing your services against your needs and goals, your current provider cannot offer the services or changes you want, you can switch to a different provider who is able to meet your needs. Before changing providers you should: Take the time to research a new provider to make sure they can meet your needs. Go to page 46 to read more about How to choose a provider? Contact My Aged Care to get a new referral code to give to your new provider and agree to a date to switch your care package. Once you have agreed to a start date with your new provider, you need to notify your current provider, preferably in writing, to let them know when you are terminating your services with them. If you have any funds left in your home care budget, the balance moves with you to the new provider however they may deduct applicable exit fees from this amount to cover any administrative costs. Exit fees may vary between providers and the amount should be clearly indicated in the Care Agreement between you and the provider of your choice. If you no longer require your HCP, any unspent funds from your budget will be returned to the Government.

MANAGING SERVICES

WHO CAN HELP? EXPERT ADVICE Navigating home care options and costs can be confusing and overwhelming but it is important to know that you are not alone. As well as relying on family or friends as a support to help you make decisions like who should deliver your care, and how you will fund any assistance, it can also be handy to know that there are a number of professional services available who can give specialist advice. The fact that home care is becoming a popular option is great for you because it means that you get more choice and control over your care and who delivers that care, but this does mean that the options available to you can be hard to get your head around or know what works best for you. Some of the overwhelming and challenging choices you or your family may face when looking into care include:

Placement consultants There are many benefits to enlisting the support of an aged care consultant, including: S aving many hours of research and chasing providers R educing family stress S treamlining care provision through a central information source P roviding referral to financial and legal experts E nsuring the best possible care for your loved one S upporting the family with housing decisions P roviding backup in the event of a crisis F acilitating good communication between family, carers and health professionals D elivering an independent and impartial service

H ow to identify your care provider T he carer skill level required C osts associated C are philosophy and reputation of the provider C are supervision S treamlining multiple service providers If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure about who should provide your care, or how you will contribute financially to your care, it can be reassuring to know that you aren’t alone. The services best suited to help you when it comes to sorting out your home care are placement consultants and financial planners. While these services do come with a fee, they can be a lifesaver for some – helping to reduce stress, streamlining the process, doing all the running around for you and taking care of all of the paperwork and documentation.

www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

MANAGING SERVICES Placement consultants can support you and your family to navigate aged care decisions, and guide you through the process, the costs, their options and how to identify appropriate and good quality care.

Financial advisors are professionals in financial services who are required by law to have your best interest at heart. They understand the systems and rules and how to make them work for your individual circumstances.

Their aim is to ensure the best fit with the best care for you through a holistic client-centred approach to care, considering individual preference like medical, cultural, religious and family needs.

Your financial planner can give you financial advice on how to arrange your finances and cash flow so that they last your lifetime and cover your aged care fees, but they can also help with an Age Pension application and work on strategies to make sure your funds will last you as long as possible.

Consultants are not only able to help you connect with the right home care provider for you, they can also assist through other stages of the care journey such as through searching for respite options and, if it is required, supporting you in the transition to residential aged care.

Attorney, Wills & estates This is also the time to update important documents, such as your Will, Enduring Power of Attorney (POA) or Advance Care Directive. A legal Will can ensure your assets are distributed to your preferred beneficiaries in the manner you want, avoiding unnecessary costs and delays. Besides a standard Will, there are more options available if you have complex arrangements. For instance, Testamentary Trusts provide asset protection and tax planning opportunities, but do incur additional costs. A POA document gives a selected person the authority to manage your financial affairs on your behalf. A POA can become immediately effective from the time you sign it, until you formally revoke it, or in specific circumstances, like the loss of capacity due to dementia.

Financial consultants Finances can get a bit tricky at the best of times, let alone when trying to manage it around your care. Which is why, when it comes to figuring out your home care finances, it is important to know that if you need them, professionals are there ready and willing to lend a hand. A financial consultant will be able to help you know what costs you will need to cover and manage your home care funds, including the account that any Government funding will go into, and how that money is spent. 62

Support At Home Tasmania

Your POA file will allow your chosen Attorney to buy and sell assets on your behalf, enter loan agreements and action other legally binding tasks. These documents will ensure that your financial status and assets, such as your house, are managed and protected over time, in case the complexity of your home care changes over time. Reaching out and obtaining good advice or guidance from a professional on the costs of care may be able to help you save money when it comes to home care.

MANAGING SERVICES

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

YOU HAVE A VOICE No matter who you are, where you live, or the types of care you need, you have rights related to your home care services that should be respected by providers. Once you know what your rights are you can assess whether any services you are already receiving are respecting your rights or not, and then take steps to ensure you are receiving quality care. If you are yet to choose a provider to deliver your home care you can use your knowledge of these rights to choose the provider that will give you the best services. Charter of care The Health Department has a Charter of care recipients’ rights and responsibilities – home care which sets out exactly the rights you should expect to have while receiving home care. These rights apply to all services including everything from home health care, such as wound care or medication management, to gardening or meal delivery. According to the Charter, you have a right to: B e treated and accepted as an individual and to have your individual preferences respected B e treated with dignity, with your privacy respected R eceive care that is respectful of you, and your family and home

R eceive care without being obliged to feel grateful to those providing the care F ull and effective use of all human, legal and consumer rights, including the right to freedom of speech regarding your care H ave access to advocates and other avenues of redress B e treated without exploitation, abuse, discrimination, harassment or neglect Under the Consumer Directed Care principles, you also have the right to: S et your own goals for your supports D etermine the ongoing level of involvement and control you have over your home care M ake fully informed decisions in relation to your care M aintain your independence as much as possible C hoose the care and services that best meet your goals and assessed needs, within the limits of the resources available H ave choice and flexibility in the way the care and services are provided in your home P articipate in making decisions that affect you H ave your representative – family member or close friend – participate in decisions relating to your care if you request it or need support to make decisions

www.HomeSupportGuide.com.au

MANAGING SERVICES

An advocate can give information, advice, and support you to express your concerns or even speak on your behalf. They will aim to achieve the best possible outcome for you. An advocate can help you: U nderstand your rights and responsibilities L isten to your concerns D iscuss your options for addressing a concern R aise a concern with the service provider or speak on your behalf M ediate a resolution with your provider These rights mean you can live the life you want to live for as long as possible. If you think your rights are not being respected you should talk to your provider about your concern first, as some issues can be fixed simply by talking to your provider about your concerns.

How to find help

Your provider may be able to reorganise your services, fix a process they use or even help you to review your plan for care so that your services do respect your rights.

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) provide free and independent advocacy services in every State and Territory, including free telephone advice, community education, and other assistance for older persons throughout Australia.

If talking to your provider doesn’t help, you can contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and make a complaint about your care. Or engage the help of an advocate,

All advocacy services ensure the needs of people from culturally diverse backgrounds are met through culturally appropriate services and can organise interpreters where necessary.

Advocacy

If you receive Government funded home care or aged care services, you can access independent and free advocacy services through the National Aged Care Advocacy Program (NACAP), which is run by OPAN.

Most of the time aged care services work well and the people who use them are happy with the service they receive. However, sometimes there is a problem, and you may need help to speak up and have the problem resolved. Raising a complaint to your provider can sometimes be scary or you may find that your provider isn’t listening. Engaging an advocacy service can help to make the process easier so your voice is being heard.

Advice is generally provided on consumer rights, human rights, financial exploitation, substitute decision-making, and elder abuse.

Support At Home Tasmania

Contact the National Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600, or search for an aged care advocate or advocacy service near you on HomeSupportGuide.com.au.

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