How To Start a Conversation Around Aged Care These Holidays

This festive season, many families will have the opportunity to see their elderly loved ones. In some cases, a get-together may not have occurred for some time due to covid disruptions the past few years. As such, at this time, families may be faced with the need to look at the aged care needs of their loved ones.

So how is it best to start a conversation around aged care?

Firstly, make sure there is plenty of time for a lengthy chat and that a conversation is started when everyone is in a good mood and willing to talk. Ask questions to gauge your loved one’s feelings and thoughts about aged care. Listen and respect those ideas and any wishes and fears that may be expressed.

Often, talking about aged care before it is actually needed gives a family and their loved ones time to adjust to the idea of, for example, the downsizing of the home or receiving care whether in the home or in Residential Aged Care. This can often reduce stress when it is actually necessary to make a transition.

Care may just involve initially accessing care services in the home which may assist in maintaining an individual’s independence to stay at home longer. In-home care not only provides support but can also provide some often much-needed social connection. Or if a greater level of care is needed, consideration of Residential Aged Care options or just initially accessing some short-term Respite may be appropriate.

With a plan in place, a family can ensure that an ACAT assessment is conducted. This is important as to access any government-funded aged care services this will be required. Additionally, in relation to receiving funding under a Home Care Package, this can typically take anywhere between 3 and 12 months. It may also be necessary to waitlist for some time in terms of accessing an ideal Independent Living option or a Residential Aged Care facility of choice.

Engaging an external aged care consultant can make broaching the subject of aged care less daunting and potentially facilitate greater communication. Having a plan in place ultimately reduces the stress associated with transitioning to or accessing care, allows input from loved ones as well as time to find the options that best suit preferences, budget, and importantly, care needs. 

Kerrie O’Brien established North Shore Retirement and Aged Care Consulting to provide guidance and support to individuals and their families in planning for aged care and to assist them in identifying the most appropriate retirement and aged care options available on Sydney’s North Shore, Northern Beaches and surrounds. Offering a personalised and independent service, she is able to offer her extensive knowledge regarding all existing and upcoming aged care and retirement facilities as well as Home Care Package providers. 

www.nsracc.com.au