Growing older should be a time to relax and enjoy a slower, more contemplative way of life. Whether seniors choose to fill their days tending their gardens, spending time on old hobbies or mastering new ones, the ability to be productive and to remain independent is of paramount importance.
Whilst aging comes with a number of changes, our minds and interests remain intact and for this reason Community Care can be the perfect solution to allow the elderly to enjoy life in the comfort of their own surroundings.
Even if the elderly resident currently has a carer, community care allows this friend or family member to step back and recharge their batteries – take a little time for themselves.
What is Community Care?
For those who are growing older but not yet ready to transition to full-time residential care, community care can provide just that little extra assistance they need to remain independent and content in the familiar surroundings of their own home.
In line with the changing expectations of older Australians, there has been a shift in the provision of services to the elderly community. More people are choosing to stay in their own homes and remain independent, either with the help of a live-in carer or with regular outside visits from a community care worker.
This external support service can also provide temporary or supplementary assistance to those who have recently undergone surgery or to recuperate from an accident or illness.
What does Community Care offer?
The advantages of Community Care are numerous. It offers the ability for older people to remain in their home whilst taking advantage of a number of convenient services, on a regular or an ‘as needed’ basis.
These services may include:
- Assisting with shopping and meal preparation
- Helping with chores around the house such as cleaning, laundry and washing dishes
- Offering transport for doctors appointments and social engagements
- Providing assistance with personal care including showering, shaving and dressing
- Monitoring and assisting with medication
- Feeding pets
- Rehabilitation and physiotherapy services
How much does Community Care cost?
The fees for community care can vary depending on your situation, and may be means-tested. The government is committed to encouraging people to remain in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible, and they offer subsidised Home Care Packages to promote this independence.
If you are eligible for a Home Care Package, fees can be estimated through the My Aged Care calculator. Alternatively, community care fees can be paid privately or you can supplement your package to access additional services as required.
How does it work?
If you are interested in finding out more about community care, call My Aged Care on 1800 200422. They can guide you through the process and procedures involved and arrange an assessment for either in-house or residential respite services.
Alternatively, go online and visit myagedcare.gov.au to access a range of information about aged care services. Remember to have your Medicare details and Australian Government Pension number on hand. If you are calling on behalf of an elderly relative, they will need to be present to give their consent to you being provided information regarding their case.
Community Care can also provide in-home services overnight or across the weekend. A caring, experienced and professional service provider will come to your home and lend a helping hand with chores or take you on a day trip to a planned event or social outing.
