What should you ask if Mum or Dad needs to enter an aged care home?
Moving into residential aged care can be a challenging and emotional decision for the person moving as well as their family, friends and carers.
Living in an aged care home is all about making sure the loved one receives the care that they need, whether helping with day-to-day tasks, assistance with personal care, or 24-hour nursing care.
Before deciding on a home, here’s our advice on the questions that you should ask:
What type of aged care services do you offer?
Understanding the range of services provided is crucial. Some providers offer comprehensive care options, including residential aged care and respite care.
How personalised is your care?
Ask about the number of Registered Nurses, personal care assistants, specialists in dementia and palliative care, and agency staff. Who will be involved in creating the care plan for your loved one?
Are there any activities and programs?
All aged care homes offer activities and programs to support residents’ mental and emotional well-being, but these will vary between facilities. Find out how the staff plan to help your loved one to continue to set and meet their goals.
What is the food like?
Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of good health, particularly for older adults and is one of the top priorities for aged care satisfaction. Ask about the meal plans, how dietary needs are accommodated and where the food is actually cooked and prepared? Does your loved one, and the residents, have any input into the food being served?
Can I pop in and look around?
While the decision to place a loved one in residential aged care often comes after an accident or illness, always ask if you can tour an aged care home first. Visiting the facilities in person can provide valuable insights about the level of care provided and see firsthand the living conditions, meet the staff, and observe daily activities. This transparency helps build trust and ensures you are comfortable with your choice.
What are the costs and funding options?
It is often a misconception that the family home needs to be sold to fund a move onto aged care.
The reality is that the Australian Government pays for the bulk of aged care services. But, as with all taxpayer-funded services, it is expected that you will contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford to do so. You will never be denied the care you need because you cannot afford it.
When moving into an aged care home, you may be asked to pay towards your care, accommodation and daily living costs.
Everyone who moves into an aged care home negotiates a room price before moving in.
The Australian Government's MyAgedCare website states "seek independent financial advice to decide which payment option works best for you".
The decision to help Mum or Dad into care is never easy – but asking the right questions can make it less stressful for both you and your family.
This is not financial advice. Always do your own research and consult a professional before making financial decisions.
