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Innovative Partnership Boosts Medication Safety for Older Australians and Those Facing complex Health Conditions For dedicated caregivers across Australia who are responsible for managing the medications of their loved ones, ensuring safety and effectiveness can be a...

Everyone should have access to quality care and support as they grow older, whether they choose to stay in their own home or transition to an aged care facility. The forthcoming reforms in aged care are designed to offer personalized, high-quality care that is easily...

The Department of Health and Aged Care has recently released Stage 3 of the Aged Care Rules 2025. This update includes draft Rules that outline provider obligations and reinforce Quality Standards within the aged care sector. On February 13, 2025, the Department of...

A restrictive practice refers to any action that limits the rights or freedom of movement of a care recipient. There are five main types of restrictive practices:  Chemical restraint Environmental restraint Mechanical restraint Physical restraint Seclusion  ...

New Aged Care Act The Australian Government has recently introduced the Aged Care Bill 2024 to Parliament, marking a significant milestone in the country's aged care sector. This bill was passed by Parliament on 25 November 2024 and is set to come into effect as the...

Introducing the Support at Home program, which allows for separate funding of assistive technology and home modifications through the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme (AT-HM). It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the revised list of inclusions...

For older Australians receiving in-home care, it is essential to be aware of the forthcoming adjustments to pricing arrangements in the Support at Home program, effective July 2025. This information is critical, and we will delineate the main points to ensure you...

The Australian Government has recently announced that price caps on services within the new Support at Home program will come into effect starting from 1 July 2026. This initiative marks a significant change in the way in-home aged care services will be regulated and...

Home Care Package (HCP) providers have the option to utilize third-party services to fulfill the needs of their care recipients if they are unable to provide them directly. However, it is important to note that providers are still accountable for ensuring that these...

Understanding Government Incentives for Downsizing Older Australians It’s no secret that we have both a housing shortage and an ageing population in Australia. These trends are combined to put pressure on governments to find practical and financial solutions. Read on...

Tailored care is increasingly recognized as the cornerstone of achieving true comfort and independence for individuals in their own homes. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, tailored care focuses on the unique needs and preferences of each individual, ensuring that...

Mirus Australia has partnered with StewardBrown to introduce the first-ever residential aged care Effectiveness Index, aimed at fostering growth and advancement within the residential aged care industry. This innovative initiative will greatly benefit from gathering...

What is respite care? Respite care is when someone else takes care of the person you usually care for so that you can take a break. Respite care provides an organised, temporary break both for the carer and the person they care for. Letting someone else do the caring...

Essential components of the new program Commencing on 1 July 2025, the innovative Support at Home program will supersede both the Home Care Packages Program (HCP) and the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme.  This groundbreaking initiative will offer a range...

Dementia is a term used to describe a range of symptoms associated with brain illnesses, rather than a specific disease itself. Common types of dementia include Alzheimer's disease / Better Health Channel and vascular dementia. Dementia leads to a gradual decline in a...

Financial hardship assistance is available to individuals who are unable to afford their aged care costs due to circumstances beyond their control. Each case is evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility. If deemed eligible, the Australian Government...

Caring for someone who is nearing the end of their life can be a deeply emotional experience, but it can also be incredibly fulfilling. It is natural to feel a range of emotions, including isolation, stress, resentment, and fatigue, as you provide this type of care....

If you are a senior veteran or a war widow/widower, there are a variety of aged care services available to you. Whether you require assistance at home, healthcare, counseling, or other forms of support, there are various types of care tailored to meet your specific...

The Strengthened Aged Care Standards have been developed to enhance the well-being of elderly Australians and establish precise guidelines for providers to ensure the delivery of high-quality aged care services.   About the Quality Standards The Aged Care Quality...

The unspent funds of a care recipient refer to the total amount remaining in their package as of the date when you, as your provider, ceased providing care. It is crucial to calculate the unspent funds when a care recipient exits your Home Care Package service. To...

After months of anticipation, the new Aged Care Act made a grand entrance on Thursday afternoon, leaving a lasting impact. Despite concerns raised by the Coalition party, the Act was successfully passed with bipartisan support after some last-minute adjustments were...

Caring for a loved one is a challenging task, and dealing with incontinence can be particularly difficult. It can be unpredictable, increase your responsibilities, and be costly. However, help is available. Seeking guidance and support from a health professional can...

In 2023, Australia introduced its inaugural guidelines aimed at promoting physical exercise as a means to mitigate cognitive decline and enhance mental health. Engaging in consistent physical exercise has been evidenced to lower anxiety and depression, as well as...

Each aged care organization offers unique services and pricing structures. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and compare providers before selecting one to receive services from. When evaluating aged care providers, there are three key factors to...

About the CHSP The CHSP is an introductory in-home aged care support program designed to assist older Australians in maintaining their independence within their homes and communities. Additionally, the CHSP offers respite services to provide caregivers with a...

What is temporary leave?  Temporary leave refers to the temporary suspension of home care services for some time. This break in services can be initiated by the individual receiving care for any reason. As a home care provider, it is important to refrain from...

Older Australians of various orientations and gender identities should have access to aged care services that are sensitive and respectful of their unique needs. These services need to take into account their personal history and any past experiences of discrimination...

Health Care Packages (HCPs) are currently held in a national pool. Once approved for a package, individuals are placed in a queue based on priority, personal needs, and length of time waiting for care. Support is allocated once individuals reach the front of the...

In certain circumstances, you may find it necessary or preferable to utilize a provider that is not subsidized by the Australian Government. This may occur after undergoing an assessment of your care requirements through My Aged Care, in which you: are deemed...

As our parents age, they may exhibit signs that they require additional assistance. This could manifest in a gradual decline in physical and mental abilities, necessitating support in their daily lives. Alternatively, a sudden event such as an accident, stroke, or...

Whether care is delivered in your home or within an aged care facility, the Aged Care Quality Standards specify the expectations for the provision of quality care.  Government-funded aged care providers are obligated to follow eight Aged Care Quality Standards, which...

As you begin your journey applying for a Home Care Package, you will probably encounter a range of unfamiliar challenges, with several potential mistakes that my not be immediately apparent.  The positive aspect is that many older Australians have previously navigated...

Your Home Care Package provider holds responsibility for delivering high-quality care and services to you.  Their primary obligations include: Respecting your rights, which encompass: being treated and accepted as an individual with your preferences respected...

Initiating the journey to obtain assistance within your home is often the most difficult.  The process may seem somewhat complicated.  However, the effect you invest in is undoubtedly worthwhile! You will gain the support necessary to maintain your activity and...

Switching home care providers may appear overwhelming, but it is a simple process. Whether you are unhappy with your current provider's services or seeking a more affordable option, changing providers can be advantageous. In this guide, we will outline the steps...

If you qualify for a Home Care Package, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the fees involved, the government's contribution, and how your budget will be allocated. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with this information before selecting a provider,...

The Home Equity Access Scheme offers older Australians who are of Age Pension age or older the opportunity to obtain a voluntary, non-taxable loan from us. This loan requires the use of equity in Australian real estate as security. To assist in making an informed...

A mental health condition refers to changes in a person's thinking, feelings, and behaviors that are typically accompanied by distress and difficulties in daily functioning. Caring for someone with a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, can be a...

Diabetes is a prevalent and serious health condition that primarily impacts older adults. It occurs when an individual's blood glucose levels, commonly referred to as sugar, are elevated. The good news is that there are proactive measures one can take to delay or even...

A chronic disease is a persistent condition that does not improve on its own and cannot be completely cured. Caring for someone with a chronic disease can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience. The progression of the disease and the resulting changes in...

Introducing the Integrated Assessment Tool designed to evaluate the eligibility of older individuals for Commonwealth-subsidized aged care services and programs. This innovative tool is set to launch on July 1, 2024. For those working in the aged care industry, it is...

The new financial year has officially begun, bringing with it a plethora of changes for Australians. As of July 1, new rules have come into effect that will impact nearly everyone, from individuals | / Australian Taxation Office individual taxpayers to families, and...

Prevalence of falls among older Australians In the 2018-19 fiscal year, falls were identified as the primary cause of injury-related hospitalizations, making up 75% of all hospital presentations. Nearly 53,000 emergency room visits and 44,000 hospitalizations were...

A recent report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has shed light on the relationship between hospital stays, residential aged care, and hospital readmissions for Australians living with dementia. The report found that individuals with...

A recent report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has shed light on the relationship between hospital stays, residential aged care, and hospital readmissions for Australians living with dementia. The report found that individuals with...

The Albanese government has recently unveiled its inaugural Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy 2024–2029. This initiative, spearheaded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, outlines a comprehensive five-year plan designed to establish a...

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) has announced an increase in audits following the latest report, which found that one in every three home care services fails to comply with all eight standards. Despite an improvement in home care compliance from...

Many older Australians are choosing to live at home for longer, supported by government-funded Home Care Packages. These packages provide valuable assistance for everyday tasks, but some individuals may require additional support beyond the standard services. An...

If you are 65 years or older and do not have an NDIS plan, The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care’s National Sign Language Program (NSLP) has expanded its services to include medical appointments, Starting July 1, 2024. Interpreting for medical...

The waiting list for older Australians in need of home care services has once again seen a significant increased. The number of individuals waiting for Home Care Packages has doubled compared to last year. With twice as many people now on the list. Home care packages...

As we age, it is important to remember that we do not have to give up the activities and passions that bring us joy.  By making conscious lifestyle choices now, we can pave the way for a more fulfilling and independent future.  With assistance from the Australian...

Navigating the world of aged care can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand the different services available. A crucial first step in accessing Commonwealth Government funded aged care services is understanding what is an aged care assessment. This...

You may be wondering "what is the $600 carer payment?" It's a government payment available to eligible individuals who provide care for people with disabilities. However, it's important to note that this payment is not directly related to aged care services. If you...

The new Support at Home program will roll out in two stages starting in July 2025. This initiative aims to enhance access to services, equipment, and home modifications for older adults, helping them stay healthy, active, and connected to their community. Existing...

Image source: ABC NewsAs Australia's population ages, many seniors are seeking ways to simplify their lives. Tiny house living has become an increasingly popular option. Here, we explore the benefits of this lifestyle for seniors in Australia.Financial IndependenceOne...