What Is The Support At Home Program? Changes To Aged Care Explained
At Whiddon, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional aged care services that adapt to the evolving needs of our community. The Australian Government’s new Support at Home program, set to commence on 1 July 2025, is a significant change aimed at improving in-home support for older Australians. In this blog, we’ll explain what these changes entail and how they will enhance support to live independently at home.
Overview of The Support at Home Program
The Support at Home program is being implemented as part of the government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. It aims to simplify and combine existing in-home aged care services, providing a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for older adults. This new program will replace the Home Care Packages Program and the Short-Term Restorative Care Programme from 1 July 2025, with the Commonwealth Home Support Programme transitioning no earlier than 1 July 2027.
Key Features of the Support at Home Program
While the final features of this program are still subject to change by the government, some of the key elements that it will provide include:
- Personalised Care Plans: Central to the program are personalised care plans that cater to the individual needs of each person, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of care and support.
- Flexible Service Delivery: The program offers a range of services, including personal care, domestic assistance, social support, and specialised health services, which can be adjusted as the individual’s needs change over time.
- Integrated Support Services: By integrating services from various existing programs, the Support at Home program provides a more cohesive and comprehensive care system.
- Focus on Independence: The program is designed to support older Australians in maintaining their independence and quality of life through aids, equipment, home modifications, and technology that assist with daily living activities.
Other Changes to Aged Care Services
In addition to home care, the assessment process for all government-subsidised aged care services is currently undergoing reform. Known as the Single Assessment System, it aims to provide a single assessment pathway that can quickly adapt to an individual’s changing needs. When fully implemented, it will simplify and improve access to aged care services for older people.
The first stage, beginning from 1 July 2024, will see the introduction of the new Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT). Aged Care Assessment Teams (ACAT) and the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) will now use this singular tool for assessing older people’s eligibility to access all government-subsidised aged care.
Finding Support Through These Changes
Whiddon is committed to supporting our aged care community as the transition to the Support at Home program begins. We will ensure that clients are kept up to date with any changes that may occur so that we can continue delivering the high-quality care and support that you rely on. Feel free to talk with our friendly team if you have any concerns or questions.
