Getting set up for aged care services can feel overwhelming and confusing. If you feel like you need help accessing aged care services and you're not sure where to start I recommended listening in to episode 3 of The Truth About Ageing podcast where I break it down into five simple steps.
1. Conversation - ask your loved one/friend, 'how are you?', 'how are you coping with ageing?', 'what can I do to support you?', 'how would you like to be supported as you age?'
2. Plan - questions My Aged Care will ask:
Age - are you 65+? or if you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Straight Islander, are you over 50?
What do you need help with? - think washing, dressing, medications, transport, cleaning, gardening, managing bills, preparing meals, food shopping? Write a list.
What current supports do you have? e.g. family that visit, neighbours that help, community buses
Recent events - any hospitalisations, falls, illnesses or new diagnoses or significant weight change
3. Cards - have your Medicare card ready
4. Buddy - a family member or friend that can be with you for support during the assessment
5. Be honest - as hard as it is, explain the things you're struggling with or what you don't feel as safe with anymore - this isn't saying you can't do it, it's identifying what may be challenging
If you're still feeling a little confused or would like some help, please send through an enquiry through my contact page and I'll be in touch to discuss how I can assist you to access aged care services.
Comments