Residential aged care: An overview
For older Australians who need ongoing care, moving into a residential facility is a common option. The term 'residential aged care' covers a range of services designed for those who can no longer live safely or comfortably in their own homes. This differs from 'home care', where support is provided within the person's own house. The transition to residential care is often significant, marking a point where an individual's needs require 24/7 access to medical and personal support.
Historical context and evolving terminology
Historically, older adults in Australia who needed residential care would typically enter either a 'nursing home' for high-level medical needs or a 'hostel' for lower-level personal care and support. The Aged Care Act 1997 consolidated these different levels of care under the single banner of 'residential aged care' to simplify the system and focus on a more person-centred approach. While the terms 'nursing home' and 'hostel' are now outdated, they may still be used colloquially. For official purposes, 'residential aged care home' or 'residential aged care facility' (often abbreviated as RACF) are the correct terms.
Services provided within a residential aged care home
An Australian residential aged care home offers a comprehensive suite of services that go beyond just medical care. These facilities provide a secure and supportive environment to ensure residents' safety and overall wellbeing. The services typically include:
- Accommodation: A private room, sometimes shared, with furnishings.
- Personal Care: Assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility.
- 24-hour Medical Care: Access to healthcare professionals for regular health monitoring, medication management, and ongoing clinical treatment.
- Hotel-type Services: Meals tailored to dietary requirements, laundry services, and cleaning.
- Social and Recreational Activities: A range of programs to promote social engagement and combat isolation.
The Australian aged care landscape
Understanding the various aged care options is essential for making an informed decision. While residential aged care is for those with higher needs, other services exist to support older Australians at different stages of their aging journey. For more detailed information on navigating the system, the Australian government's My Aged Care website is the primary resource.
Comparing aged care options in Australia
| Feature | Residential Aged Care (RAC) | Home Care Packages (HCP) | Retirement Villages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Older people with complex, ongoing needs requiring 24/7 care. | Individuals who need coordinated support to continue living independently at home. | Active, independent seniors who want to downsize and enjoy a community lifestyle with amenities. |
| Services | Accommodation, personal care, meals, 24-hour nursing, and social activities. | Personal care, domestic help, transport, and clinical care delivered in the home. | Accommodation (unit or villa) with social and recreational facilities; limited or no personal care included. |
| Funding | Government subsidised, with means-tested fees based on income and assets. | Government subsidised, with four levels of support based on assessed needs. | Often self-funded through property purchase; not a government-subsidised care option. |
| Assessment | Requires an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment for eligibility. | Requires an ACAT assessment for eligibility for a Home Care Package. | No government assessment is needed; entry is determined by the village operator. |
How to access residential aged care
Accessing a residential aged care home involves several steps, starting with an official assessment to determine eligibility and level of need. This process ensures that individuals receive the appropriate level of care and that costs are managed fairly.
Step 1: The ACAT assessment
Before moving into a residential aged care home, a person must undergo an assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). This team, made up of health professionals, determines whether the individual requires residential care or could be supported by a Home Care Package. The assessment is a crucial step in the journey, as it unlocks access to government-funded services.
Step 2: Financial assessment
After the ACAT assessment, a financial assessment is conducted to determine the individual's contribution to the cost of care. This is based on their income and assets. Fees generally include a basic daily fee and potentially a means-tested care fee.
Step 3: Finding and choosing a provider
Once approved, the individual and their family can search for a suitable aged care home using the My Aged Care website's service finder. It is recommended to compare different providers based on factors like quality ratings, services offered, location, and the facility's overall environment. Visiting potential homes is a critical part of this process to ensure the right fit.
A focus on quality and dignity
Over time, the focus of Australian aged care has shifted from institutional settings towards creating a more home-like environment that prioritises residents' emotional, spiritual, and physical needs. Facilities are required to meet certain standards to ensure the safety, dignity, and quality of life for residents. When choosing a home, it's always important to prioritise the quality of care and the feeling of community over just the amenities.
Conclusion: Making the right choice
In Australia, what you might call a 'care home' is most accurately referred to as a 'residential aged care home' or 'residential aged care facility'. This clarification is the first step in a larger process of finding the best support for a loved one. By understanding the terminology and the steps involved, families can confidently navigate the system to secure high-quality care that meets their specific needs. Choosing a residential aged care home is a significant decision, but with the right information, it can be a positive step toward ensuring a loved one's health, happiness, and wellbeing in their later years.
