You’re on the hunt for an aged care support provider. There are plenty of options. It can be overwhelming. Who do you choose? And, how do you choose? There are a few key criteria to look for.
We know looking for the right care support team can be confusing. There is a lot to consider! But, with this list in hand, you’re off to a good start. Compare service providers against this list to find a great support team.
Local
The first thing to ask is: where is this provider? You need a care support team who is close by. There are many advantages to choosing a local provider. When your support team is just around the corner, you can access help quickly and easily. Local carers also know the area and are part of your community.Experienced
How long has this provider been around? A well established aged care support team is more likely to provide efficient services. Experience counts. Find an aged care provider who has a good reputation and plenty of happy customers.Operating hours
We advise against choosing an aged care provider that is only open during regular business hours. That’s not how care works! You may need support overnight or on the weekend. Find a support team who are flexible and available.Multilingual
Do you speak a language other than English? You should find a support team who can speak your language. It’s important that you can communicate well with your carer. So, if you need a multilingual carer, don’t be afraid to ask.Safety first
All carers should be subject to criminal checks and other relevant screening. When it comes to in-home care, your safety is paramount. Make sure your chosen provider is careful about the quality and character of their carers.Qualified carers
Similarly, your care support team should be appropriately qualified. At a minimum, every carer should have either a diploma or a Certificate III/IV in Individual Support, Aged Care, Disability or Community Service. If your support team provides medical care, they should have nursing qualifications.Quality care
The Australian Government has outlined eight standards which aged care providers must meet. You can read those standards here. When searching for a care support team, find out whether they meet these standards. You can ask your provider about these standards.COVID-19 Safe
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential that your care team understands infection control and hygiene. The Australian Government has developed training for aged care providers which specifically equips them to mitigate the risk of COVID-19. Ask your service provider whether their carers have undergone this training. Ask them what protective measures they have in place to keep you safe from COVID-19.Services
Finally, you should look for a care support team who can provide the services you’re looking for. Sometimes, small providers only offer a select number of services. It’s best to find a team who offer a range of services. That way, as your needs change, you can readily access different services.We know looking for the right care support team can be confusing. There is a lot to consider! But, with this list in hand, you’re off to a good start. Compare service providers against this list to find a great support team.
