Deciding to move into an aged care home is often a time of stress, high emotion, a longing for the past and uncertainty about the future. It is a challenging and emotional decision for the person moving and their family, friends and carers.

To help you when consideration the move, here is a list of the Do’s and Don’ts when considering care.

Do’s

• Use the My Aged Care Aged Care Homes Finder to look for homes in the area you would like to live and contact them to arrange a time to visit.
• Visit several homes. Each home is different, so visiting them will help you to find out what you can expect. You’ll also be able to see what the accommodation is like, and what types of care, services and activities they offer.
• Consider updating or preparing legal documents such as Enduring Powers of Attorney, Enduring Powers of Guardianship, Advance Health Directives and Wills. It’s important to understand what these are and there implications.

Dont’s

• Try to avoid choosing a home at the last minute. Many people are forced to make a decision to enter aged care through circumstance, such as after a hospital visit, a fall or illness. Having a few facilities in mind, you’ll give yourself the best chance possible to get the best care outcome for yourself.
• Don’t assume that all services once in the home are free. There are fees for extra or additional services. Your aged care provider can give you details of these services and the fees that apply.
• Don’t forget to get an income and assets assessment through The Department of Human Services or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to see if you are eligible for any Australian Government assistance towards your aged care home costs. Additionally, you may need to get financial advice about the best way to fund your aged care.
• Don’t forget that before you move into a home, you will need to have an ACAT assessment to see whether you are eligible to move into a home. This service is free.

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