Exploring Home Care: What is a Home Care Package?

We all know ageing is a natural part of life, so it makes sense that as we get older, our health needs will change too. Fortunately, home care is helping more and more older Australians access the support and care services they need, while also continuing to feel empowered and independent as they continue to live at home as they age.  

In this blog, let’s take a look on the basics, to help you or your loved one begin your home care journey today. 

Understanding home care packages

Home Care Packages are a government-subsidised program allowing older Australians to access required care services so they can continue living independently at home. If you are 65 years of age or older and eligible for this funding, you can connect with a range of personal services to keep you connected with the community, while remaining independent. 

Once assessed, you will be assigned one of four levels, ranging from Level 1 (basic care needs) to Level 4 (high-level care needs). The level assigned determines the amount of funding allocated to your care package, which can then be utilised to access specific care services. 

Types of home care package services

Home care packages cover a wide range of services, allowing you to receive personalised care and support in your own home. These services can include: 

• Personal care: Assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility support.
• Allied health services: Access to various health professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and dieticians, to address specific health needs and improve your overall wellbeing.
• Meal preparation: Assistance with meal planning, preparation, and nutritional support.
• Domestic assistance: Help with household tasks like cleaning, laundry, and shopping.
• Transport: Support for transportation to medical appointments, social activities, and community engagements.
• Social support: Companionship and assistance with participating in social activities and hobbies.
• Respite care: Temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to take breaks and recharge.
• Home and lifestyle modifications: Adaptations to the home environment, such as grab rails or ramps, and the provision of assistive devices to enhance independence and safety.
• Nursing support: Access to skilled nursing care for complex medical needs.
• Medication management: Assistance with organising and administering medications.

The benefits of home care packages 

Home care packages offer numerous benefits for you and your loved ones, including: 

• Access to care services in your own home. For many people, continuing to live independently contributes to their overall wellbeing and happiness.
• Services that can be tailored to your specific needs, requirements, and preferences.
• Ongoing support which adapts to your changing circumstances. As your requirements evolve, the package can be adjusted to accommodate additional services or higher levels of care.
• Access to allied health services, social support, and personal care assistance.
• Peace of mind and reassurance for your family members, knowing their loved one is receiving the care and support they need as they age.
• The freedom to choose your care providers, the types of services you receive, and when they are delivered. 
• Holistic care that supports your overall wellbeing – from your physical needs to your emotional, social, and mental health. 

Getting assessed

To access a home care package, you must first undergo an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) in Victoria. These assessments evaluate the level of care and support you need and the corresponding, and appropriate, home care package level. For more on this assessment process, read our comprehensive aged care assessment guide. 

The process involves a face-to-face assessment with an ACAT/ACAS assessor, where your health, mobility, and overall wellbeing are evaluated. The assessor considers factors such as your ability to perform daily tasks, your medical conditions, and any support you may require. It also considers any specific health preferences and future goals you may have regarding your wellbeing and care. 

Waiting for a home care package

After assessment, if you are approved for a home care package, you may need to wait for your allocated package to become available. This waiting time can vary depending on the demand and availability of packages in your area. 

During this period, you may be eligible for interim support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or other government-funded services. These programs offer basic care and support while you wait for your home care package. Services provided under the CHSP may include assistance with personal care, meals, transport, and home maintenance. 

Funding and budgeting 

Once you’re assessed and approved for a home care package, you will receive government funding to cover the cost of your approved services. The level of funding is determined based on the assigned care package level and your assessed care and service needs. 

Home care package funding consists of two main components: the basic daily fee and the package funding. The basic daily fee is the individual’s contribution towards the cost of their care and is calculated based on their income and assets. The package funding is the government-funded amount allocated to the individual’s care package and is used to pay for the approved services. 

Understanding more about costs and fees

While the government provides funding for home care packages, you may be required to contribute towards the cost of your care, depending on your financial circumstances. 

The income-tested care fee is a fee based on individuals’ income and is determined by the Department of Human Services. However, there are annual and lifetime caps to ensure that individuals are not financially burdened. 

Managing home care package funds

Once you receive your home care package funding, you have control over how those funds are allocated and which services you choose to engage. 

An easy way to manage this process is to choose a home care package provider to manage the funds and organise and oversee services on your behalf. Your chosen provider takes care of administrative tasks, such as managing staff, coordinating services, and ensuring compliance with government regulations.  

In summary

Home care is growing in popularity amongst older Australians to help them continue to enjoy living at home while also receiving the care they need. The level of assistance provided by home care packages is tailored to meet individual needs, and encompasses a wide range of care services, including personal and nursing care, home maintenance and mobility and transport support.  

Our service to you

Ready to receive hassle-free in-home care support? Grab our free report for a step-by-step guide to accessing a Home Care Package (HCP), understanding costs, and a must-have handy home care checklist. Take the first step toward care at home — download now for free.      

Got questions or like to receive more support? Please reach our care at home advisors or call us on 1300 144 144 and choose “home care” as a service option. We provide home care services across Sydney and Tasmanian home care for seniors in our local communities.  

For more information about how to access a home care package and get started with home care support, including the available opportunities and our range of services, download our digital brochure. Got questions or like to receive more support? We’re here to help. Please reach us via our contact page or call us on 1300 144 144.