Ensuring that your care needs are consistently met is crucial for maintaining quality of life, especially for individuals receiving government-funded home or aged care services in Australia. Reassessing care needs periodically helps to adapt care plans to any changes in health, living conditions, or financial circumstances.

What is a reassessment of Aged Care needs?

A reassessment of care needs is a thorough review of an individual’s current aged care plan to determine if it still aligns with their evolving needs. This process ensures that the support services provided continue to be appropriate and effective.

The Reassessment process:

• Reassessments are typically conducted by professionals such as the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).
• If you experience significant changes in your circumstances, you may need to request a reassessment of your care needs through My Aged Care.
• The process includes evaluating health status, living conditions, and personal circumstances to update the care plan accordingly.

When to get your Aged Care needs reassessed?

Ensuring that your care plan evolves with your changing needs is essential for maintaining your well-being and quality of life. Regular care plan reviews for aged care are crucial in ensuring it aligns with your current needs and preferences. Knowing when to seek a reassessment can significantly impact the effectiveness of your care and there are certain situations where reassessment becomes crucial:

Change in health status

Health changes are a primary reason for reassessment. These can include new diagnoses, increased need for assistance, hospitalisations, or alterations in medication. Timely reassessment is vital for adjusting care plans to address these changes effectively. Communicating these changes to care providers ensures that evolving needs are met promptly.

Example scenario:

A client with declining cognitive function (i.e., memory loss) or reduced dexterity who needs ongoing assistance with medication management and daily personal care.

Change in living situation

Changes in living arrangements, such as moving to a new home or transitioning to a different care setting, can significantly impact care needs. It’s essential to reassess care plans to address new challenges and ensure continuity of care. Resources and support services are available to help individuals navigate these transitions smoothly.

Example scenario:

Moving from a one-storey to a two-storey home may increase the need for further support or modifications to improve home accessibility.

Change in financial circumstances

Financial changes, such as a loss of income, receiving an inheritance, or changes in eligibility for government subsidies, can affect access to care services. Reassessment helps align care plans with the individual’s current financial situation, ensuring continued access to necessary services. Guidance on financial support resources is also available to assist in these transitions.

Example scenario:

If you were previously self-funding your care and support services or using another means (such as private health insurance) but are no longer able to facilitate this, the support plan may require a review.

Change in personal circumstances

Personal factors, like changes in family support or caregiver arrangements, can influence care needs. Managing these changes effectively is crucial for maintaining continuity of care. Open communication with care providers and support networks is essential in addressing personal changes and advocating for individual needs.

Example scenario:

If a primary caregiver can no longer provide support, reassessment might identify the need for additional professional care services.

Events or incidents

Significant events or incidents, such as falls or emergencies, may necessitate a new assessment of care needs to ensure continued quality care. Recognising when a reassessment is needed following such events helps prevent future issues and ensures appropriate adjustments to care plans.

Example scenario:

After a fall, reassessment could result in increased safety measures being implemented in the home.

How HomeMade can help with Aged Care reassessment

HomeMade is dedicated to supporting individuals through the reassessment of care needs and the adjustment of care plans, ensuring that aged care plans are reviewed regularly to align with evolving personal circumstances. Our services include:

Reassessment of care needs

HomeMade assists with reviewing current support plans and ensuring that care needs are continually met. Our personalised, client-centred approach emphasises individual choice and autonomy in care decisions.

• Initial consultation to understand changes in needs and budget.
• Assistance with documentation and form completion to submit request.
• Follow-up support to implement new care plans.

Package upgrades

If necessary, HomeMade can help individuals apply for package upgrades to receive a higher level of care. This process ensures that care services align with evolving needs, providing access to additional support and services.

Examples of when you may need to upgrade your package:

• Increased mobility support following a fall.
• Additional in-home care services due to a progressive condition.

Find out more on reassessment of Aged Care needs

You can find out more on when to get reassessed by visiting the My Aged Care website.

Take control of your care needs today

Routine reassessment of aged care needs is essential for maintaining high-quality care and adapting to changing circumstances. HomeMade supports individuals through this process, ensuring that care plans remain relevant and effective. By proactively re-assessing care needs, individuals can enjoy a greater sense of empowerment and autonomy in their aged care decisions.

Experiencing changes in health, living arrangements, finances, or personal circumstances? Don’t wait—review your aged care plan today to ensure you receive the right support. Get in touch to schedule your reassessment today.