An aged care assessment helps determine what government-funded support may be appropriate for an older person. Knowing what happens before, during and after the assessment can make the process less daunting for both the person and their family.
Key takeaways
- Apply through My Aged Care; the government assessment is separate from selecting a provider.
- The assessor looks at the whole situation, including daily life, safety, health, supports and goals.
- Bring a trusted person if helpful and describe difficult days honestly.
- After the decision, use the support plan to discuss practical services with a suitable provider.
What an aged care assessment is
An aged care assessment is a structured conversation about a person’s care needs, strengths, circumstances and goals. It helps determine eligibility for government-funded aged care and the types of support that may be appropriate.
It is not a test that someone must ‘pass’. The purpose is to understand how the person manages at home and what support could help them remain safe and independent. A provider such as Heather Senior Care does not conduct the government eligibility assessment.
When to apply
Consider applying when everyday tasks are becoming harder, support from family is increasing, there has been a fall or hospital stay, mobility or memory has changed, or a carer is becoming exhausted. Applying early gives families more time to plan.
A person may still say they are managing while someone else is doing the shopping, meals, cleaning or driving. That informal care is part of the real picture and should be mentioned.
How to apply through My Aged Care
Register with My Aged Care online or call 1800 200 422. A family member, friend or carer can assist. My Aged Care can explain the application pathway and what information is needed.
After an application, an assessment organisation contacts the person to discuss their circumstances and arrange the assessment. It may occur at home or another suitable setting. Check current official guidance because processes and timing can change.
What the assessor may ask
Expect questions about mobility, personal care, meals, medication, health conditions, memory, emotional wellbeing, home safety, social connections and current support. The assessor will also ask about goals, such as staying in a familiar home, getting out safely or reducing pressure on a carer.
Answer in terms of a typical difficult day, not the best possible day. If a task is technically possible but unsafe, painful, exhausting or only possible because another person steps in, say so.
How to prepare
- Write down recent changes: falls, hospital admissions, mobility, memory, personal care or household tasks.
- List current support: include help from family, friends and services.
- Prepare questions: ask how the decision and support plan will be provided.
- Invite a support person: a trusted family member or advocate can take notes.
- Focus on goals: explain what the person wants to continue doing at home.
After the assessment
A client receives a Notice of Decision and support plan. The package will be Approved and placed onto the waiting list, the clients funds only become available when the package has been Assigned.
Heather Senior Care can discuss its available Support at Home services once a person has an assigned package, including how support may be organised around the directions given in their Notice of Decision from their Assessment.
Government clearly specifies how much funding is available in each of the three category’s, Independence, Lifestyle and Clinical Care. Also if AT&HM has been allocated.
If a client has an Approved package, Heather Senior Care can provide private care if requested while the client waits for their Support at Home package to be assigned.
Frequently asked questions
Is an aged care assessment free?
The government assessment process is free. Ask My Aged Care about current arrangements for your circumstances.
Can a family member attend?
Yes. A family member, carer, friend or other trusted supporter can help with the application and attend the assessment. Heather highly recommends a family member attends.
What should I tell an aged care assessor?
Describe changes in daily life, safety concerns, informal help, health impacts and goals. Be honest about difficult days.
What happens after an aged care assessment?
You receive a decision and support plan. If support is approved, you can discuss service options with providers.
What if needs change after the assessment?
Contact My Aged Care or speak with the provider about a review or reassessment pathway. The appropriate action depends on the situation.
Ready to discuss care at home?
If you have received an assessment outcome and would like to discuss available support, explore Support at Home in Brisbane or contact Heather Senior Care.
