There is a common misconception that accessing aged care services means someone is no longer capable of looking after themselves, but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes people simply need assistance with the day-to-day tasks that have become a little difficult over time.

With the latest reform changes to Consumer Directed Care Home Care Packages coming into effect earlier this year, older Australians have more choice and control over the types of services they access. The flexibility of the consumer-driven model means people can stay in their own homes for longer and continue to enjoy their lives as normal.

As people get older, they can feel like their choices are being limited or taken away, but the Consumer Directed Care model ensures they can maintain their independence. Being able to select a provider that truly reflects what a consumer needs is a key element of Consumer Directed Care. Every individual is an expert in their own life and they should have the opportunity to make decisions about their own support services.

For some people, assistance with shopping and meal preparation a few times each week might be adequate, while other people may have more complex needs. The types and frequency of services will be dependent on the individual’s goals and Home Care Package level.

A Home Care Package is government-subsidised funding that covers the cost of care services for older people. Each package level has a different amount of funding that is paid to the individual’s provider of choice by the Australian Government to deliver their care and services.

All Home Care Packages in Australia are provided under the Consumer Directed Care model. The care program was piloted in 2010-11 with great success, which led to the national implementation for all packages from 1 July, 2015.

There are four levels of funding for Home Care Packages and an individual’s level will be determined by the amount of support they require. Levels range from one, a low level of care, to four, high level care.

The contact centre at My Aged Care can provide information about the types of services available, service costs and how to access them. My Aged Care will create a personalised client record which will hold up-to-date information on the individual’s needs, the results of any assessments and any services they receive.