What Is a Level 4 Home Care Package?

As we age, it’s natural to find ourselves in need of a little extra support with day-to-day tasks. Fortunately, in Australia we have access to a range of home care packages designed to assist older adults in maintaining their independence, accessing support, and remaining in the comfort of their own homes.

In this blog, we explore what a Level 4 Home Care Package means and the benefits it can provide you or a loved one with complex care needs.

Understanding Home Care Packages

Before we learn more about level 4 home care packages, let’s take a moment to understand the basics. A home care package is a coordinated and flexible suite of services tailored to meet the unique needs of older adults looking to access care and support. These packages are funded by the Australian government and are designed to support people with a range of health conditions, enabling them to receive assistance in their own homes. For more on how you can get started, see our post on exploring home care.

To access a Level 4 Home Care Package, you will first need to undergo an assessment conducted by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). The ACAT assessment helps determine your eligibility for government funding and the level of care required: from basic care (level 1) to intermediate care (level 2 and 3) to complex care (level 4). To learn more about what to expect from an assessment, read our blog article on getting prepared.

Once approved for a level 4 package, you will have access to a higher level of support compared to the lower packages. One of the primary advantages of a level 4 home care package is the increased funds allocated to your care. These funds are divided into different levels/categories, allowing you to allocate them according to your specific needs. This ensures that you receive the most suitable care and support services tailored to your unique circumstances.

For more information, click through to read more about level 1, level 2 and level 3 home care packages and the support services they can include.

What is a Level 4 Home Care Package?

With a level 4 package, you will have access to a wide range of services. Personal care is an essential component, which includes assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility. This ensures that you can maintain your personal hygiene and physical wellbeing with the help of a trained care worker.

Additionally, domestic assistance can help with household chores such as cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation. By having someone assist you with these tasks, you can focus on other aspects of your life while ensuring that your living environment remains tidy and comfortable.

For individuals with complex nursing care needs, level 4 packages offer access to highly skilled healthcare professionals. These professionals can provide specialised services, including wound care, medication management, and assistance with medical equipment. If you require ongoing medical treatment or have specific health conditions that require professional attention, a level 4 home care package can ensure that you receive the necessary care in the comfort of your own home.

The package also covers other specialist services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology. These services aim to improve or maintain your overall wellbeing, enhance your mobility, and support you in maintaining your independence.

How much does a Level 4 Home Care Package cost?

The Australian government provides funding for a level 4 home care package, but it’s important to note that you may be required to contribute towards the cost of your care. This contribution is determined through an income assessment, and is known as the ‘income-tested care fee’. The income-tested care fee is paid directly to your chosen care provider and ensures that you receive the necessary support without placing undue financial strain on you or your family.

In addition to the income-tested care fee, recipients of level 4 home care packages may also be required to pay a basic daily fee. This fee is set by the Department of Health and Aging and covers the administrative costs of managing your care package (your chosen care package provider may ask you to pay this fee). However, it’s worth noting that there are financial hardship provisions in place to support people who may struggle to pay these fees.

For more on the potential fees to expect when accessing home care, read this blog post.

How to choose a Home Care Service Provider?

With a level 4 package, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred care provider. This means that you can select a reputable organisation like Respect, a trusted provider of home care services in Australia. Respect offers a comprehensive range of support options and is committed to delivering high-quality care that respects your individual needs and preferences.

It’s important to remember that while a level 4 home care package provides significant support, it is not the same as high-level residential aged care. However, with the right package level, you can still receive the necessary care and assistance in your own home, allowing you to maintain your independence and continue living in a familiar environment. This article is a great resource for you to understand the fundamental differences between in home care and residential aged care, to help you decide what would be best for you or a loved one.

Want to read more about how to choose a home care package provider that’s right for you? Check out our step-by-step guide.

How can a Level 4 Package benefit you?

One of the key benefits of a level 4 Home Care Package is the provision of complex nursing care. This level of care is essential for individuals with advanced health conditions or those who require specialised medical attention. Complex nursing care services can include wound management, catheter care, medication administration, and monitoring of vital signs. These services are delivered by trained and experienced healthcare professionals who ensure that your medical needs are met in a safe and effective manner.

A level 4 package can also provide support for individuals with cognitive impairments or dementia. For example, dementia-specific care aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals living with memory loss and cognitive decline. This can include assistance with daily routines, memory aids, cognitive stimulation activities, and strategies to promote independence and engagement.

In addition to personal and nursing care, a level 4 home care package covers a range of other services to support your overall wellbeing. This can include access to allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. These specialists can assist with mobility, rehabilitation, falls prevention, communication, and swallowing difficulties, ensuring that you maintain or improve your functional abilities.

Furthermore, the package allows for the provision of respite care services. Respite care offers temporary relief for caregivers, providing them with a break from their caregiving responsibilities. This can be particularly beneficial for family members who may need time for self-care or to attend to other personal commitments. Respite care can be arranged either in your own home or through short-term stays in respite care facilities, giving you peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are in capable hands.

How can you access a Level 4 Home Care Package?

It’s important to note that accessing a level 4 home care package involves a partnership between you and your chosen care provider, supported by the Australian government. Together, you will create a personalised care plan that reflects your goals, preferences, and specific needs. This person-centered approach ensures that the care and support you receive align with your unique circumstances and needs.

To make the most of your level 4 home care package, it’s essential to actively participate in the decision-making process. Regular communication with your care provider is crucial to address any concerns, make adjustments to your care plan as needed, and ensure that your evolving needs are met. The aim is to promote a collaborative and empowering environment where your voice is heard, and your choices are respected.

For more on maximising the potential benefits of your home care package, read our guide on how Respect can support you today.

Summary

A level 4 home care package offers comprehensive support for individuals with complex care needs. It provides access to a wide range of services, including personal care, domestic assistance, complex nursing care, specialised therapies, and respite care. With government funding and the flexibility to choose your care provider, you can receive the assistance you need to remain living in your own home while maintaining your independence.

By partnering with a trusted provider like Respect, you can rest assured that your care will be delivered with professionalism and commitment, with a focus on your personal wellbeing. Embrace the opportunities provided by a level 4 home care package, and enjoy the benefits of aging at home with the right support and care by your side.

We’re here to support you

At Respect, we’re passionate about supporting older Australians to ensure the next phase of their lives are filled with purpose and possibilities.

Whether it’s through our network or aged care homes or our home care support options, we are here for you and your family whenever you need us. Your future should shine with meaning, comfort and conveniences — and with our support, you’re backed by over a century of care and consideration for the way you want to live.

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.