One in six Australians are aged 65 years and over, and the number of older Australians is expected to grow[1]. While many people may prefer to live independently, their ability to live a high quality of life can depend on how they manage day-to-day activities, their physical health and any long-term health conditions.
My Aged Care is designed to be the entry point for older Australians to access government-funded aged care. This service aims to make it easier for older people, their families and carers to find information on ageing and aged care in Australia. It provides online information and trained call centre staff to get an older person’s needs assessed and to find and access the right services in their unique situation.
Health professionals can support patients to access services by referring them to My Aged Care for an assessment. Depending on their needs, health care professionals can refer patients to a:
- Home Support Assessment to determine their eligibility to receive entry-level Commonwealth Home Support services, which allows an older person to remain living at home. These assessments are usually conducted face-to-face in the patient’s place of residence by a Regional Assessment Service assessor
- Comprehensive Assessment to determine their eligibility for a Home Care Package, or for residential, respite, short-term restorative and transition care. Patients may also be referred to the Commonwealth Home Support Programme where appropriate. Comprehensive assessments are undertaken by an Aged Care Assessment Team assessor, usually face-to-face at the patient’s usual place of residence
My Aged Care offers services that range from helping with daily tasks to end-of-life care, support for carers, respite care and access to residential aged care. There are three levels of services offered:
- At-home Care involves improving their social health, temporary help, such as transition care after leaving the hospital, personal care services, and home maintenance
- Short-term Care provides care and support services for a set period of time, aiming to help with day-to-day tasks and either restore or maintain their independence
- Aged Care Homes are available for older people who can no longer live at home and need ongoing help with everyday tasks or health care
You can refer a patient or visit the My Aged Care webpage for health professionals webpage to find out more information. GPs may also use e-Referrals from within their practice management system.
Patients, carers and health professionals can access all My Aged Care services through the My Aged Care website or by calling 1800 200 422.
[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2021), Older Australians, Available on: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/older-people/older-australians/contents/demographic-profile