What happens in an Aged Care Assessment?
What to expect in an aged care assessment? How do assessors understand your needs and goals, and how does the process leads to a personalised Support at Home plan?
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If you are thinking about getting some extra help at home, one of the first steps is an aged care assessment. It might sound formal or a little daunting, but in reality it is simply a conversation that helps you get the right support at the right time. The assessment is designed to understand how you are managing day to day and what would make life easier, safer and more comfortable for you.
Why you need an aged care assessment
Your assessment is arranged through My Aged Care and it is required before you can access government funded services under programs like Support at Home. The purpose is to understand your needs so you receive support that actually fits your situation. It is not a test and it is not something you can fail. It is simply a way for trained assessors to learn about you and recommend the most suitable options.
What happens on the day
Your assessor will visit you at home or meet you through a phone or video call. Most people prefer a home visit because it gives the assessor a full picture of how you live and what support might be helpful. You can have a family member, friend or carer with you if that makes you feel more comfortable.
During the visit your assessor will talk with you about:
- how you are managing daily tasks such as showering, dressing and preparing meals
- your general health and mobility
- how you move around the house and whether anything feels unsafe
- any recent changes in your condition
- your home environment
- the support you already receive and whether it is enough
They may also ask about your goals. For example, you might want to stay active, keep social, improve balance, manage a health condition, feel safer at home or maintain your independence for as long as possible. Your goals help shape a support plan that is meaningful to you rather than one that is simply based on a list of services.
After the aged care assessment
Once your assessment is complete you will receive a letter outlining the outcome and your personalised support plan. This document explains what you are eligible for under Support at Home, including ongoing services, short term pathways or both. You will also be given a priority level that helps determine how quickly your funding will be allocated once it becomes available.
When your funding is released you will receive referral codes that allow you to choose your preferred provider. You do not have to rush the decision but there is a timeframe for accepting your place, so it helps to start exploring providers early. Once you choose a provider you can create a support agreement and begin services.
What this means for you
Your aged care assessment is the gateway to services that help you stay safe, supported and independent at home. The process is friendly and collaborative and you are always in control of your choices. Many people find that once the assessment is done they feel relieved because they finally have a clear plan and understand what help is available.
At Leora Healthcare we guide you through every step, from preparing for your assessment to starting your services. If you ever feel unsure about the process we are here to make it simple and reassuring for you.