Question 1

How do I know my loved one is safe with a Respect carer?

Accepted Answer

Our carers are screened through background checks and provided references. We hire people committed to the health, well-being and safety of those who need it most.Before we hire a carer, we test them for empathy. Being empathetic to a person’s needs ensures a compatible fit for compassionate assistance. A carer’s main priority is their client’s health and safety. There is great satisfaction in providing necessary services to those who cannot get around as they used to.Becoming a Respect carer is a noble profession and our name stands on our customers’ satisfaction. That’s why we check in frequently to make sure quality care is provided at all times. To speak to an Aged Care Representative and learn more, contact us. We look forward to assisting your needs.

Question 2

Besides providing a helping hand, what else can I get out of having support at home?

Accepted Answer

Most likely, you think of hiring a carer to take care of an individual’s health needs. But Respect care doesn’t stop there. Our carers treat people holistically—mind, body and spirit.Aside from health and safety needs, care recipients benefit from companionship and one-on-one conversation. Having someone to talk with is so important as we age. We can air our feelings, talk about our likes and dislikes—even share recipes or run off about the latest footy match. In time, a carer becomes an extension of the family.Here’s a real plus: the routine of having a friendly face show up every day is an absolute feel good. This is an especially important factor in combating depression. Medical issues, losses in life and loneliness are all catalysts for depression in people as they age. A carer not only listens to concerns, but sets up activities that can stimulate the mind and body, which in turn elevates mood. In short, a busy day is a purpose-filled day!Not surprisingly, the relationship between a carer and the person who is being looked after has a significant, positive impact on both. The time they spend with each other may be more than they spend with anyone else. An empathetic ear and sense of humour go a long way in developing trust and camaraderie. It’s a downright win-win.For people diagnosed with dementia, the psychological benefits of having a carer are quite remarkable. In fact, according to Alz.org, having support for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can improve quality of life. Our Respect carers have learned techniques and activities to keep people in the early stages of memory loss actively engaged.

Question 3

I would like to be a personal carer. Are you hiring?

Accepted Answer

Our team is growing, and we’re looking to hire people who are concerned about the well-being of others. If you’re interested, we’ll require a background check, screening and you’ll be asked to provide references. If you think being a carer is right for you, apply on our Careers page.Some things to consider prior to applying:Do you frequently put other people’s needs before your own? As a personal carer, people depend on you. To best serve our care recipients, being on site, on time is a requirement. At times, you may be required to be flexible with your assigned schedule.Do you live a healthy lifestyle? Chances are, if you care for your own health, you care about the health of others. Our team is dedicated to providing healthcare services, some of which may require strength and agility. Please consider this before applying as a carer.Are you considered a patient person? Like anyone, our care recipients have good days and not-so-good days. Feeling overly tired or unwell can affect one’s mood, thereby requiring patience on the carer’s part. Our goal is to provide a safe, comforting service, so maintaining a sense of calm and caring attitude is essential.Being a carer is a meaningful profession that offers many professional and personal rewards. Those in healthcare are widely respected in the communities they live in. There are professional networking associations you may want to join to foster camaraderie and support for your career. With Respect, you’ll develop friendships, get paid a fair wage and gain pride in your abilities.

Question 4

How can I prepare for my ACAT assessment?

Accepted Answer

During the assessment, it is really important that you provide as much detail as possible on how your health and independence would benefit from home care and services.

To prepare for you ACAT assessment, please have the below documents/information handy:

* Medicare card and one other form of identification, for example, driver licence, healthcare card, or passport.
* A copy of any referrals from your doctor.
* Information you already have about aged care services that you may want to discuss.
* Contact details for your GP or other health professionals.
* Information on any support you receive.
* A support person if required.
* Special assistance to communicate, such as a translator or Auslan interpreter, if required.

Got questions? Our Care Managers are ready to help. Contact us for assistance.

Question 5

Can someone join me during my ACAT assessment?

Accepted Answer

The ACAT assessment team will arrange a time to visit your home to discuss your support needs. You may choose to have family or support with you throughout the visit. A friendly Respect representative is available if you would like added support.Got questions? Our Care Managers are ready to help. Contact us for assistance.

Question 6

Is there a cost involved with the ACAT assessment?

Accepted Answer

ACAT assessments are free. In fact, if you think you might be eligible for a home care package, we recommend requesting an ACAT assessment today by calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. There are often lengthy wait times for an ACAT assessment, so we recommend you should contact them as early as possibleNeed help with registering for ACAT? Simply contact us and we’d be happy to assist!

Question 7

Will an income assessment be done?

Accepted Answer

The government may require you to pay an income tested care fee towards your care needs. The income tested fee is based on your financial assets. You are required to submit Form SA456 for assessment, which can be accessed here. You can estimate what this fee will be using the fee estimator tool on the My Aged Care website.Need help with the application process? Contact us for assistance. We’re happy to help!

Question 8

I can't wait for a Home Care Package. Can Respect assist me immediately?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely!We understand that navigating and waiting for a Home Care Package can be stressful, especially when you need support now. We can work with you to access community or private services while you wait providing you the peace of mind. To find out more give us a call on 1300 144 144 or simply contact us to get assistance. We’re happy to help!

Question 9

What can and can't I use Home Care Package funding for?

Accepted Answer

What can I use Home Package funding for?When it comes to your wellbeing and health, getting the right care at home is important to maintain independence and the ability to stay at home so you can live life, your way. Our services are extensive and we have the ability to personalise them to your needs.Some of the things you may wish to use your package funding on include:Independence at home: domestic assistance, laundry, changing bedding, meal preparation, light gardening, transportation, shoppingPersonal care: personal hygiene, grooming and dressing, medication prompt, continence care and consumablesHealth and wellbeing: individual and group social programs, stay connected with technology, carer respite, welfare checksBalance and mobility: falls prevention, exercise at home, mobility aids, allied health supports including occupational therapy and physiotherapyHome and garden maintenance: home maintenance, minor modifications, garden cleaning and maintenanceWhat’s not included in my Home Package funding?At Respect, we work in partnership to maximise funding on areas that align with your health and wellbeing needs.It’s worth noting that government-funded home care packages cannot fund items that would usually be paid for with general income. For example:Household bills and basic living expensesFood (unless part of enteral feeding needs)Permanent accommodationHome modifications or capital items that do not relate to care needsTravel or accommodation for holidaysEntertainment such as tickets to sporting eventsGamblingPayment for services and items covered by Medicare benefits Schedule or PBSPayment of fees or charges for other types of care or services funded or jointly funded by Australian governmentGot questions? Simply contact us to get assistance. We’re happy to help!

Question 10

How many hours of service am I entitled to?

Accepted Answer

We’re to help you choose when, where and how you need support based on your preferences and care needs. Your initial service budget is determined by the amount of government funding associated with your allocated Home Care Package level.With our low package fees, you can get the most out of your package. We have lower than average fees so your aged care funding goes towards your actual care.

Question 11

Does Respect have an exit fee?

Accepted Answer

Respect do not charge an exit fee.We are confident that we can work together to provide you the best home care experience. However, if you would prefer to transition to a new provider, we will support you through that process.Got questions? Simply contact us to get assistance. We’re happy to help!

Question 12

How can I switch to Respect from another provider?

Accepted Answer

Switching to Respect is as easy as 3 simple steps.If you’re not happy with your current provider, or hoping to get more out of your home care package, transitioning to Respect is an easy choice.We’re here to help you manage your transition smoothly to minimise disruptions to your continuity of care.Call Respect or My Aged Care: Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to let them know you would like to change providers. Write down the referral code you are given and contact Respect on 1300 144 144 to discuss your preferences.Agree on Your End Date: Decide and inform your current provider that you wish to cease services with them and transition your home care package to another provider.Organise Your Start Date with Respect. Let us know your end date with your current provider so that we can help minimise disruptions to your services.Got questions? Simply contact us to get assistance. We’re happy to help!

Question 13

Do Respect Home Care support workers have training and qualifications?

Accepted Answer

Respect home care support workers are suitably qualified and trained. They engage in regular mandatory skills training to ensure that they can effectively and safely support you. To ensure your safety, staff also undergo regular compliance checks during and prior to employment.Got questions? Simply contact us to get assistance. We’re happy to help!

Question 14

Can I choose my own Home Care support worker?

Accepted Answer

We match you with support staff who align with your needs and preferences. If you have a support worker that you prefer, let us know and we will do our best to schedule someone who exceeds your expectations.Got questions? We’re happy to help! Simply contact us to get assistance.

Question 15

How can I add or cancel a service?

Accepted Answer

You can absolutely add or cancel services as your needs change. Your Respect Care Manager will be able to assist you with this request.Your Care Manager will regularly meet with you to ensure that your care and services meet your needs and preferences. You may also suspend all or some of the care and services you receive under the package for a period for events such as hospital admission, transitional care, residential respite or a holiday.Got questions? Read our FAQ section to learn about the application process, services, benefits and more.

How can I prepare for my ACAT assessment?

Other Frequently Asked Questions