How to Find and
Compare Aged Care Options

Finding and Comparing Aged Care Homes

Finding and Comparing Aged Care Homes

Ageing Population

As Australia's population continues to age, the need for quality residential aged care homes, or nursing homes, has never been greater. Finding and comparing these homes can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the process. However, with a little research and some careful consideration, you can find the right home for your loved one.

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Determine Your Loved One's Needs

Before you begin your search for a residential aged care home, it's important to determine your loved one's needs. Some things to consider include their level of mobility, any medical conditions they have, and any cognitive impairment they may be experiencing. You should also consider their social and emotional needs, as well as their preferences for things like location and amenities.

Once you have a good understanding of your loved one's needs, you can begin your search for a residential aged care home that can meet those needs

Research Homes in Your Preferred Suburbs

The next step is to research residential aged care homes in your local or preferred suburbs. You can do this by using the Australian Government's My Aged Care website, which provides a searchable directory of aged care homes across Australia.

To use the My Aged Care website, you'll need to create an account and complete an assessment of your loved one's needs. Once you've completed the assessment, you can use the directory to search for aged care homes that meet your loved one's needs.

In addition to using the My Aged Care website, you can also ask for recommendations from healthcare professionals, friends, and family members who have experience with residential aged care homes.

Visit the Homes You're Interested In

Once you've identified a few residential aged care homes that you're interested in, it's important to visit each one in person. This will give you a chance to see the home's facilities, meet the staff, and get a sense of the atmosphere.

During your visit, you should ask questions about the home's policies, services, and amenities. You should also ask about the staff-to-resident ratio, the qualifications of the staff, and any special programs or activities that the home offers.

Consider the Costs

Residential aged care homes can be expensive, so it's important to consider the costs when comparing homes. The cost of care will vary depending on a number of factors, including the location of the home, the level of care required, and the services and amenities offered.

To get an idea of the costs involved, you should ask each home for a detailed breakdown of their fees and charges. You should also ask about any additional costs that may be incurred, such as fees for extra services or for personal items.

Check the Accreditation and Ratings Status

Before making a decision, it's important to check the accreditation and ratings of the residential aged care homes you're considering. In Australia, aged care homes are regulated by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, which is responsible for ensuring that homes meet certain standards of care.

The Commission rates aged care homes on a number of factors, including the quality of care, the safety and wellbeing of residents, and the standard of living. You can check the ratings of aged care homes on the Commission's website.

Consider the Location and Accessibility

Finally, you should consider the location and accessibility of the residential aged care homes you're considering. Ideally, you should choose a home that is located close to family and friends, as this can make it easier for your loved one to stay connected with their community. You should also consider the accessibility of the home from your loved one's perspective, particularly if your loved one has mobility issues.