- Apply through My Aged Care; the government assessment is separate from selecting a provider.
- The assessor looks at the whole situation, including daily life, safety, health, supports and goals.
- Bring a trusted person if helpful and describe difficult days honestly.
- After the decision, use the support plan to discuss practical services with a suitable provider.
What an aged care assessment is
An aged care assessment is a structured conversation about a person’s care needs, strengths, circumstances and goals. It helps determine eligibility for government-funded aged care and the types of support that may be appropriate.
It is not a test that someone must ‘pass’. The purpose is to understand how the person manages at home and what support could help them remain safe and independent. A provider such as Heather Senior Care does not conduct the government eligibility assessment.
When to apply
Consider applying when everyday tasks are becoming harder, support from family is increasing, there has been a fall or hospital stay, mobility or memory has changed, or a carer is becoming exhausted. Applying early gives families more time to plan.
A person may still say they are managing while someone else is doing the shopping, meals, cleaning or driving. That informal care is part of the real picture and should be mentioned.
How to apply through My Aged Care
Register with My Aged Care online or call 1800 200 422. A family member, friend or carer can assist. My Aged Care can explain the application pathway and what information is needed.
After an application, an assessment organisation contacts the person to discuss their circumstances and arrange the assessment. It may occur at home or another suitable setting. Check current official guidance because processes and timing can change.
What the assessor may ask
Expect questions about mobility, personal care, meals, medication, health conditions, memory, emotional wellbeing, home safety, social connections and current support. The assessor will also ask about goals, such as staying in a familiar home, getting out safely or reducing pressure on a carer.
Answer in terms of a typical difficult day, not the best possible day. If a task is technically possible but unsafe, painful, exhausting or only possible because another person steps in, say so.
How to prepare
- Write down recent changes: falls, admissions, mobility, memory, personal care or household tasks.
- List current support: include help from family, friends and services.
- Prepare questions: ask how the decision and support plan will be provided.
- Invite a support person: a trusted family member or advocate can take notes.
- Focus on goals: explain what the person wants to continue doing at home.
After the assessment
The person receives a Notice of Decision and support plan. If eligible for Support at Home, the next stage is to consider how approved support can be used and which provider is the best fit. If needs change later, speak with My Aged Care or the provider about whether a review is appropriate.
Heather Senior Care can discuss its available Support at Home services once a person has an outcome, including how support may be organised around their routine and goals.