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Where to start

All common questions

  ACAT assessments
  1. Are the ACAT assessment results explained to me straight away?
  2. Are the ACAT assessments always done at home, or can I go somewhere else if I would prefer?
  3. Are there services that give care at home without me going to the Aged Care Assessment Team first?
  4. Can I choose what aged care home I go into or does the ACAT decide this for me?
  5. Can I have someone with me while I'm having my ACAT assessment?
  6. Can the ACAT recommend a good aged care home?
  7. Do I have to get an Aged Care Assessment done to receive help with my care at home?
  8. Do I need an assessment for all types of home care?
  9. Do I need an assessment?
  10. Do I need to consider residential aged care?
  11. How do I arrange for an ACAT assessment?
  12. How long does the ACAT appeal process take?
  13. How long will my ACAT assessment last?
  14. How many people will visit me to do the ACAT assessment?
  15. I am needing more help at home. I am even thinking that I might need to move to an aged care home. Will Commonwealth Carelink arrange this for me?
  16. I do not agree with the ACAT assessment of my relative. What can I do?
  17. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  18. I don't know whether my father can get help to stay at home or if he would be better cared for if he moved to an aged care home. How is the decision made?
  19. I don't want to talk to anyone about the things I can't do. Why do I have to have an ACAT assessment?
  20. I haven't had an Aged Care Assessment Team assessment yet. Can I still get help?
  21. Is there a cost associated with appealing against the ACAT assessment or their recommendations?
  22. My aunt was taken to hospital with a minor infection. They say at her age she should be in a home, although she has been managing quite well with a bit of help from us. She does not want to go into a home. What can we do?
  23. What do I have to do to get ready for an ACAT assessment?
  24. What happens if I don't feel well on the day of my ACAT assessment, or if I change my mind and don't want them to come?
  25. What happens if my doctor does not agree with the ACAT assessment?
  26. What if I'm not sure whether I need to move to an aged care home?
  27. What is an ACAT Assessment and why do I need one?
  28. What sorts of things do the ACAT people assess? What questions do they ask?

Access and eligibility
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Can I just move into an aged care home when I feel I'm ready?
  3. Do I need to consider residential aged care?
  4. How can I be sure the information I have is up to date?
  5. How can I find out about programs to help me care for someone?
  6. How can I find out if there are volunteers who can help me look after Dad?
  7. How do I find a Day Therapy Centre?
  8. How do I find my local Community Health Centre?
  9. How do I find out more about residential care?
  10. How do I know if I 'm eligible for any of these programs?
  11. I am not ready to go into care but I would like to find out more about what is involved in entering into aged care for future reference. Where would be the best place to obtain this sort of information?
  12. I love gardening but it's getting too much for me. Can I get help?
  13. My aunt was taken to hospital with a minor infection. They say at her age she should be in a home, although she has been managing quite well. She does not want to go into a home. What can we do?
  14. What assistance is available as people get older?
  15. What happens if I suddenly get sick?
  16. What if I'm not sure whether I need to move to an aged care home?
  17. Who makes the decision whether I could receive community care at home or need to go into an aged care home?

Accessing care
  1. Are the ACAT assessments always done at home, or can I go somewhere else if I would prefer?
  2. Can I choose what aged care home I go into or does the ACAT decide this for me?
  3. Can I just move into an aged care home when I feel I'm ready?
  4. Can the ACAT recommend a good aged care home?
  5. Do I need to consider residential aged care?
  6. Do I need to have another ACAT assessment to move to a different home?
  7. How can I find out about a home's financial security?
  8. How do I apply for an asset assessment?
  9. How do I arrange for an ACAT assessment?
  10. How do I find an aged care home that meets my needs?
  11. How long will my ACAT assessment last?
  12. I am a veteran. Do I need an ACAT assessment to receive residential aged care?
  13. I don't have many assets or a high level of income. Will I still be able to enter residential aged care?
  14. I need high-level care but I don't know how to track down Nursing Homes in my area. Is there a list of them anywhere?
  15. My family are suggesting that I need to go into an aged care home. Do I have to?
  16. My grandmother can't speak English. How can I find a home where she can be understood?
  17. My mother has gone into an aged care home. Now my father has been assessed as needing care. How can I ensure they can stay together?
  18. My parents are thinking of moving into an aged care home. Will they be able to share a room?
  19. What if I'm not sure whether I need to move to an aged care home?
  20. What is an ACAT Assessment and why do I need one?
  21. What sorts of things do the ACAT people assess? What questions do they ask?
  22. Who makes the decision whether I could receive community care at home or need to go into an aged care home?
  23. Why should I have an assets assessment?

Active ageing
  1. Are some foods better for me than others?
  2. As I get older I don't want to eat as much as I used to - what foods should I eat to be sure I stay healthy?
  3. At my age what does it matter if I have a healthy lifestyle or not?
  4. Because of my work I have moved around the country quite a bit, so I don't have a lot of friends in any one location, which limits my social life now.
  5. How can being active and eating well help me as I get older?
  6. How do I know how much exercise is good for me at my age?
  7. How would I know if the person I care for would benefit from allied health support?
  8. I'd like to learn about the internet; where do I go?
  9. I'm fit enough physically, but now that I have retired the days seem to drag on and I feel I am getting mentally sluggish.
  10. I know I should get more exercise but I can't afford to join a fitness club.
  11. Where can I find out how to self-manage my chronic condition?
  12. Why should I have an influenza vaccination every year?

Aged care homes
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Can I get allied health services for mum if she is in an aged care home?
  3. Can I just move into an aged care home when I feel I'm ready?
  4. Do I need to consider residential aged care?
  5. How can I find out if the home I am considering has a good record of providing quality care?
  6. How do I find out more about residential care?
  7. How many residents should be located in one room?
  8. I am needing more help at home. I am even thinking that I might need to move to an aged care home. Will Commonwealth Carelink arrange this for me?
  9. I am not ready to go into care but I would like to find out more about what is involved in entering into aged care for future reference. Where would be the best place to obtain this sort of information?
  10. My aunt was taken to hospital with a minor infection. They say at her age she should be in a home, although she has been managing quite well. She does not want to go into a home. What can we do?
  11. My mother's dementia has become much worse recently and my father, who is her main carer, can no longer look after her. She has been assessed as needing high-level care in a home with facilities for people with dementia. But I don't know where to start and the situation is urgent. What can I do?
  12. My mother is now a war widow and is already in an aged care home. Do her entitlements change and who does she need to tell? Will DVA contact her?
  13. What assistance is available as people get older?
  14. What happens if I can't afford to pay my fees once I'm in an Aged Care home?
  15. What if I'm not sure whether I need to move to an aged care home?
  16. What information am I entitled to receive about my bond?
  17. What is a hospice?
  18. What types of care are available?
  19. Who makes the decision whether I could receive community care at home or need to go into an aged care home?
  20. Will dad lose his cultural ties to his community when he goes into an aged care home?

Aids and equipment
  1. How can I get talking books for Mum?
  2. I have a teletypewriter but my sister does not. How can I ring her if I need to?
  3. Mum has had a walking frame for a few years now. It needs to have the brakes adjusted. How can I find out where to get the walking frame 'serviced'?
  4. Mum uses a walking frame now. Is there help that I can get to make changes at home so she can move around more easily?
  5. We would like to get a special desk that can be adjusted to accommodate a wheelchair. Where can I find out about these?
  6. Where can I get information about equipment to help Mum manage at home now she is getting frail?

Allied health care, aids and equipment
  1. Are there additional costs if I swap to Telstra from my phone company to receive equipment from the Disability Equipment Program?
  2. Dad turns his hearing aid off because it 'annoys him' and has missed collecting his Meals on Wheels because he didn't hear the doorbell or the 'phone. Is there anything we can do?
  3. How can I get talking books for Mum?
  4. How would I know if the person I care for would benefit from allied health support?
  5. I don't have Telstra phones, but have a disability that affects how I use the phone. Can I still get equipment to help me, or must I change over to Telstra to receive help?
  6. I have a teletypewriter but my sister does not. How can I ring her if I need to?
  7. I live alone and am getting older. My stove is worn out and I need a new one, but I need help to understand the technology they talk about in the shops. Is there someone who can help me?
  8. Mum has had a walking frame for a few years now. It needs to have the brakes adjusted. How can I find out where to get the walking frame 'serviced'?
  9. Mum uses a walking frame now. Is there help that I can get to make changes at home so she can move around more easily?
  10. We would like to get a special desk that can be adjusted to accommodate a wheelchair. Where can I find out about these?
  11. What do I do if my phone stops working and I need to arrange Priority Assistance?
  12. Where can I get continence management equipment free or cheap?
  13. Where can I get financial assistance for continence management equipment?
  14. Where can I get information about equipment to help Mum manage at home now she is getting frail?
  15. Will DVA help me get safety equipment for my home?

Care options
  1. Dad has always made decisions about his care, but lately I've been worried that he is not considering all the options. What can we do?

Care planning
  1. How can I start to talk to mum about preplanning for her care needs?

Carer support
  1. Because I am the only one who doesn't have a partner my brothers and sister have expected me to give up work to look after Mum now she needs a full-time carer. They don't give me much help with Mum and sometimes criticise what I am doing. This is quite difficult for me.
  2. How can I get in touch with other young people who are carers?
  3. How do I get in touch with other carers?
  4. I'm finding it hard to cope with seeing Mum so frail and helpless. Is there someone I can talk to?
  5. I've heard of carer support groups - what can they actually do for me?
  6. I am currently looking after my mother and am finding it a real handful on top of a full working week. Will I ever get a break!?
  7. I can't give Dad all the care he needs. Am I being selfish in suggesting he move to an aged care home?
  8. I only get a few minutes to myself each day - how can I best use this time to maintain my health?
  9. I really need a break but Dad refuses to go into an aged care home or community house for respite care. What can I do?
  10. I want to join a group that meets once a week and have arranged alternative care for Mum, but she says I am being selfish. Should I continue?
  11. If I am caring for someone, is it possible for me to go on a holiday without them? Will they still be cared for?
  12. Is there anyone I can talk to about caring for somebody with dementia?
  13. Is there only one carer support group in each state/territory or is there one near me?
  14. My aunt is living at home, but only managing because I help her a lot. I have my elderly mother and my own family to care for as well and am finding it increasingly difficult to cope. Is there someone I can talk to about what I can do?
  15. The rest of the family don't seem understand the problems I have looking after Dad. Is there anyone I can talk to?
  16. What can a Carer Resource Centre do for me?
  17. What help is there for carers?
  18. What if I can no longer cope with being a carer?
  19. What is the National Respite for Carers program?

Carers
  1. How can I find out about programs to help me care for someone?
  2. I'm tired all the time looking after my uncle. What can I do?
  3. If I have to take long-term leave without pay to help my mother who is getting very frail, how will I manage financially?
  4. Is there a counselling service for carers in my area?
  5. My elderly mother has come to live with me on my farm. She needs help with showering, dressing and other personal care. I am away from the house most of the day - can we get help with these things even though we are a few hours drive from the nearest town?
  6. The person I care for sometimes gets angry and violent. What can I do about this?
  7. What if I can no longer cope with being a carer?
  8. What is a Carer Allowance?
  9. What is a Carer Payment?
  10. What is the difference between Carer Allowance and Carer Payment?
  11. What payments are available for carers?
  12. What programs are available to help carers?

Caring for someone at home
  1. Dad has trouble eating. Is there someone who can help him?
  2. I can't give Dad all the care he needs. Am I being selfish in suggesting he move to an aged care home?
  3. I don't have time to do all the housework at dad's as well as my own. I can't afford a commercial cleaning service. Can I get help?
  4. I need some help to shower and shave Dad - can I get it?
  5. I really need a break but Dad refuses to go into an aged care home or community house for respite care. What can I do?
  6. Mum lives alone and has some help from the local Council. She is supposed to have a case manager, but never hears from her and now the cleaner hasn't been for 6 weeks. What can we do?
  7. My elderly mother has come to live with me on my farm. She needs help with showering, dressing and other personal care. I am away from the house most of the day - can we get help with these things even though we are a few hours drive from the nearest town?
  8. My grandpa is looking scruffy as he gets older because he isn't showering very often or shaving. Is there someone who can help him? How do we arrange it?
  9. Who can I speak with to get more information about Dementia?

Caring for someone in care
  1. How many residents should be located in one room?
  2. I've found a home I like but they say they can't look after me as I'm over 110kg. Can they do this?
  3. I've looked after Dad since Mum died, but now he is going to an aged care home. Will they do everything for him?
  4. Mum is in an aged care home and in the terminal stages of cancer. The home says they cannot look after her and that she has to go to hospital for treatment, but mum doesn't want to go. Can they insist?
  5. My mother is going into high-level dementia care and as a her main carer I would like to be an active participant in her care. How do I go about doing this?
  6. The home has rung to say I need to buy a helmet for mum to wear as she is continually having falls. I don't know whether this is good practice or not - how can I get more information and find out if the home is doing the right thing?

Community care
  1. Are there services that give care at home without me going to the Aged Care Assessment Team first?
  2. Do I have to let providers into my home if I don't want their service on the day they arrive?
  3. Do we have to pay for Home and Community Care services?
  4. Do you have to have an ongoing illness/problem to go to a Day Therapy Centre or can you just go to one occasionally?
  5. How can I tell which of these programs are best suited to my needs? Is there someone who can help me?
  6. How do I find a Day Therapy Centre?
  7. How do I find my local Community Health Centre?
  8. How long do Extended Aged Care at Home services go for?
  9. How long do the people providing these Extended Aged Care at Home Dementia services stay in my home?
  10. I'm finding it quite expensive driving my mother to medical appointments. Can I get any help?
  11. I'm not sure that I will be able to afford any form of care to assist me in my home. What can I do?
  12. I've had a bit of a spill recently and hurt my wrist. The doctor says it will be right as rain in a couple of months but in the meantime I'm having trouble with my laundry and gardening. Is there anyone who can help in the short term?
  13. I am a Torres Strait Islander person and I have recently moved to a regional town in Queensland. Can I still get help through HACC or is it only for regional and remote areas?
  14. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  15. I have complex chronic health problems. Most of the time I am reasonably well and manage at home. How can I get looked after at home at the times I am unwell?
  16. I live alone and am getting older. My stove is worn out and I need a new one, but I need help to understand the technology they talk about in the shops. Is there someone who can help me?
  17. I love gardening but it's getting too much for me. Can I get help?
  18. I think that I need more help to be able to stay at home than the Home and Community Care program seems to offer. Is there more help?
  19. I would like to get out and about a bit more like I used to, but I don't drive now and its too hard to get on the buses. Is there someone who can help?
  20. If the person I care for can't travel, are there services that come to us?
  21. Is there any help available for my sight impaired father?
  22. Mum is a War Widow. How do I find out what services are available to her?
  23. Mum is a war widow. She can't get on buses any more, and I live 600 kms away. How is she going to get to her medical appointments?
  24. Mum lives in a rural area. How can I get a podiatrist for her?
  25. My elderly mother has come to live with me on my farm. She needs help with showering, dressing and other personal care. I am away from the house most of the day - can we get help with these things even though we are a few hours drive from the nearest town?
  26. What are community care services?
  27. What assistance is available as people get older?
  28. What food services can I get through Home and Community Care?
  29. What sort of help can I expect to receive to help me stay at home?
  30. What types of care are available?
  31. Who arranges in-home respite? How can I get it?
  32. Who makes the decision whether I could receive community care at home or need to go into an aged care home?

Complaints
  1. How can I complain about a publicly-funded aged care service?
  2. I'm not confident of talking with people when it might be a difficult or complex conversation. Is there anyone who can support me if I have a concern about an aged care home?
  3. I feel like the home doesn't respect my rights. What can I do?
  4. I have talked to the home about my concerns and nothing has changed. What can I do?
  5. If I am not happy with the Australian Government-subsidised aged care services I receive, who do I notify?
  6. What can you complain to the Aged Care Complaints Investigations Scheme about?
  7. What do I do if I'm not happy with the care I'm receiving in an aged care home?
  8. What is the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme?
  9. Who can complain to the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme?

Complementary therapy
  1. Can I get allied health services for mum if she is in an aged care home?
  2. How would I know if the person I care for would benefit from allied health support?
  3. Mum lives in a rural area. How can I get a podiatrist for her?
  4. My father sees a lot of medical and allied health professionals who visit him at the home. I don't know why he needs to see so many people, and I don't know what they do for him. Dad doesn't seem to know either. I'm pleased dad is receiving care, but is there a way I can find out what it is all for?
  5. What is an 'alternative therapy'?

Continence management
  1. I am OK now, but how can I stop myself becoming incontinent later?
  2. Many people believe that drinking water will cause them to wet themselves and refuse to drink it to avoid the risks.
  3. Where can I get financial assistance for continence management equipment?

Cultural and identified needs
  1. Are there counselling services for veterans?
  2. Are there special services for veterans?
  3. Can I search for aged care homes that are run by Veterans' organisations such as the RSL?
  4. I'm an Aboriginal person - is there a palliative care program that would suit me?
  5. I am a Torres Strait Islander person and I have recently moved to a regional town in Queensland. Can I still get help through HACC or is it only for regional and remote areas?
  6. I am a veteran and would like to live in an aged care home with other veterans.
  7. I am a veteran. Do I need an ACAT assessment to receive residential aged care?
  8. I am a war veteran from another country but now an Australian citizen. Should I go to DVA or Centrelink for my income assessment?
  9. Is end-of-life care available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  10. Mum is a War Widow. How do I find out what services are available to her?
  11. Mum is a war widow. She can't get on buses any more, and I live 600 kms away. How is she going to get to her medical appointments?
  12. Mum is a war widow. Shecan't get on buses any more, and I live 600 kms away. How is she going to get to her medical appointments?
  13. Mum lives in a rural area. How can I get a podiatrist for her?
  14. My mother is now a war widow and is already in an age care home. Do her entitlements change and who does she need to tell? Will DVA contact her?
  15. My mother is now a war widow and is already in an aged care home. Do her entitlements change and who does she need to tell? Will DVA contact her?
  16. We live in the country - is residential care available locally or will grandma have to go away from her family and friends?
  17. What aged care support is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  18. What happens if I am a full pensioner or someone else who cannot afford an extra-service place?
  19. What help is there for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  20. What help is there if I have particular needs?
  21. What is the meaning of a war widow or widower?
  22. What services are available for older people from culturally diverse backgrounds who are in need of aged care?
  23. Will dad lose his cultural ties to his community when he goes into an aged care home?
  24. Will DVA help me get safety equipment for my home?

Culturally and linguistically diverse
  1. Do aged care homes provide care for specific cultural or linguistic groups?
  2. Granddad needs to go into a high-level care home. He requires meals in line with our religion. Will we have to pay extra for these meals?
  3. How do I find an aged care home with residents and staff who speak my language so I can communicate with them?
  4. My grandmother can't speak English and I have to go to hospital for an operation. Is there somewhere that she can have respite care where she can be understood? How can I find it?
  5. My grandmother can't speak English. How can I find a home where she can be understood?
  6. My mother is of a non-English speaking background and is having trouble getting the staff at the home to understand her needs and preferences. How can I help her?
  7. Will dad lose his cultural ties to his community when he goes into an aged care home?

Dementia
  1. Dad has dementia. Is there any help we can get to look after him?
  2. Who can I speak with to get more information about Dementia?

Eligibility and standards
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Some of my friends gifted their assets to their family before they had an assets test for aged care. Is this still allowed and how much can I gift?
  3. Can I participate in the Quality Reporting process so I can provide feedback on the services I receive?
  4. How can I find out if the home I am considering has a good record of providing quality care?
  5. How do I know if I 'm eligible for any of these programs?
  6. How do I know if Mum is being treated properly by the care provider?
  7. I have lived perfectly well at home on my own since my wife died, but people now are saying I should think about getting some help. How do I find out about it?
  8. My parents live together in an independent living unit in an aged care complex. Dad is quite frail and relies on my mum a lot. We think that he should go into an aged care home for respite to give mum a break from her caring role, but he refuses to go. What can we do?
  9. What do I do if I'm not happy with the care I'm receiving in an aged care home?
  10. What happens if my doctor does not agree with the ACAT assessment?
  11. Where can I find the Australian Government standards for community care?

End-of-life care
  1. I'm an Aboriginal person - is there a palliative care program that would suit me?
  2. Palliative care - if Mum is in pain, can it be eased?

Entering an aged care home
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Once I go into an aged care home, do I have to stay there?

Falls prevention
  1. Mum lives alone. She manages well, but I'm worried that she might fall and need help. What can I do?
  2. Where can I get more information about Falls Prevention?

Fees and costs
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Some of my friends gifted their assets to their family before they had an assets test for aged care. Is this still allowed and how much can I gift?
  3. Are there additional costs if I swap to Telstra from my phone company to receive equipment from the Disability Equipment Program?
  4. But I'm just a pensioner and can't afford all these costs?
  5. Do timeframes apply to the refund of my bond balance if I leave a service?
  6. Do we have to pay for Home and Community Care services?
  7. Do you pay fees before you move into an aged care home?
  8. Does the provider have to pay interest to me on my bond balance?
  9. Grandad's foreign pension does not cover his care fees. What can he do?
  10. How much does residential aged care cost?
  11. How will my bond be protected?
  12. I'm finding it quite expensive driving my mother to medical appointments. Can I get any help?
  13. I'm not sure that I will be able to afford any form of care to assist me in my home. What can I do?
  14. I'm not sure that I will be able to afford any form of care. What can I do?
  15. I am a self-funded retiree, currently live in my own home and need to enter an aged care home to receive low (hostel) level care. How much could I be asked to pay?
  16. I don't have time to do all the housework at dad's as well as my own. I can't afford a commercial cleaning service. Can I get help?
  17. I know I should get more exercise but I can't afford to join a fitness club.
  18. I often receive letters for my father who is a resident in an aged care home saying that his daily income-tested care fees have increased, but I don't know if I am supposed to do anything?
  19. I receive a pension from Centrelink, currently live in my own home and need to enter an aged care home to receive high-level (nursing home) care. How much can I be asked to pay?
  20. I would prefer to rent out my home rather than sell it, but the home won't accept periodic payments. They want a lump sum. What can I do?
  21. If I'm receiving transition care will I have to contribute to the daily cost?
  22. If I am receiving compensation payments, how do I know I am being charged the correct fees?
  23. If I go to hospital, will I have to pay hospital fees as well as fees to the aged care home?
  24. If I just need to move to high-level care in another part of the same home what happens to my bond?
  25. If I leave will I get my bond back?
  26. In high care, who is responsible for buying continence aids?
  27. Is there a cost associated with appealing against the ACAT assessment or their recommendations?
  28. Mum has a War Widow's pension but the home says she is not a pensioner and must pay higher fees. Is this right?
  29. My dad is having real trouble meeting the cost of his care. Where can I get a copy of the Financial Hardship Assistance form so I can take it to him?
  30. My dad needs to attend a dental surgery for treatment. Does the home pay for this and arrange the visit?
  31. My fee advice letter mentioned Class C hardship supplement - what does that mean?
  32. My mum has dementia and I am her representative for dealing with the Department about her fees. The Department has sent letters on the maximum fee mum can be charged, but I don't know how much the home charges.
  33. My Mum is a low-level care resident and gets her medication given to her from a special 'Webster' pack. She is charged by the home for this. Is this right?
  34. My older brother (87) is getting deaf. He is a pensioner and can't afford to go to specialists.
  35. The home Dad is in has just been given extra-service status. We can't afford any extra fees. Will Dad have to move?
  36. What additional costs can I expect to pay for an extra-service place?
  37. What are accommodation charges?
  38. What are assisted residents?
  39. What does the home use accommodation bonds for when they are already getting all those fees from residents?
  40. What fees and charges apply if the person is married or in a de facto relationship?
  41. What happens if I can't afford to pay my fees once I'm in an Aged Care home?
  42. What happens to my bond if I change homes?
  43. What happens to my bond if I die?
  44. What if I am asked to pay a high accommodation bond which is over the pensioner allowable limit?
  45. What if I require residential aged care due to an accident?
  46. What is the interest rate providers have to pay to me on the refund of my bond balance?
  47. Who has to pay for mum's Webster packs?
  48. Why do I have to use my compensation payments for care and why won't the government pay a subsidy like they do for other residents?
  49. Why do I pay the daily care fees?
  50. Will I have to pay for a Home and Community Care service?
  51. Will my fees be affected by my classification scale?

Financial and legal
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Some of my friends gifted their assets to their family before they had an assets test for aged care. Is this still allowed and how much can I gift?
  3. Aunty is in low level care. After she has paid for her fees, medicine and continence aids she has no money left for clothes, laundry or personal items. Is there anything that can be done about this?
  4. Dad is paying for extra services and that was OK to start with, but now we can't afford it. What can we do?
  5. Do I still need to do a tax return if I am a resident in an aged care home?
  6. Grandad's foreign pension does not cover his care fees. What can he do?
  7. How do I find out about a home's financial status?
  8. How will the home know about my will and funeral arrangements?
  9. I'm going to have to give up work to look after Dad, but I'm not old enough to get an Age Pension. How are we going to manage on his pension?
  10. I'm Mum's legal representative but I wasn't involved in her care planning. I would like to be involved - how should I go about it?
  11. I am a war veteran from another country but now an Australian citizen. Should I go to DVA or Centrelink for my income assessment?
  12. I don't have many assets or a high level of income. Will I still be able to enter residential aged care?
  13. I have been assessed as needing aged care and will need to rent out my house as I haven't finished paying off my mortgage. Will this be taken into account? I don't think I can afford to make any extra payments.
  14. I know from arranging my husband's funeral that there are papers and things you have to have after someone dies. I want to get these ready for when I die. Where can I find a list of what I need?
  15. I need financial advice to sort out my affairs. Is there someone who can help me?
  16. I no longer have a partner but my son still lives at home. Will the home be counted as a asset for pension purposes?
  17. I often receive letters for my father who is a resident in an aged care home saying that his daily income-tested care fees have increased, but I don't know if I am supposed to do anything?
  18. I receive a pension from DVA but don't know if it is means tested.
  19. I think I need to get financial advice before looking into aged care. Is there someone who could help with that?
  20. I would prefer to rent out my home rather than sell it, but the home won't accept periodic payments. They want a lump sum. What can I do?
  21. If I am receiving compensation payments, how do I know I am being charged the correct fees?
  22. If I have to give up work to help my mother who is getting very frail, how will I manage financially?
  23. If I leave will I get my bond back?
  24. In what circumstances can I be asked to leave an aged care home?
  25. My husband and I are in different aged care homes some distance apart. Can I get any extra financial support to help us visit each other?
  26. My mum has dementia and I am her representative for dealing with the Department about her fees. The Department has sent letters on the maximum fee mum can be charged, but I don't know how much the home charges.
  27. The aged care home where mum lives, is closing, Where will she go? What happens to her bond?
  28. What are assisted residents?
  29. What are concessional residents?
  30. What are considered to be 'assets' when working out finances for payment purposes?
  31. What can an advocate do for me when I'm totally dependent on the home?
  32. What happens if I am a full pensioner or someone else who cannot afford an extra-service place?
  33. What happens if I don't sign a Resident Agreement?
  34. What happens to my bond if I die?
  35. What help does the government provide?
  36. What if I don't want a Resident Agreement?
  37. What if I require residential aged care due to an accident?
  38. What is a 'Resident Agreement'?
  39. What is Australian Government-susbidised aged care?
  40. What is the difference between the Aged Blind Pension and the Age Pension?
  41. What will happen to my bond if I am asked to move into high care?
  42. Why do I have to use my compensation payments for care and why won't the government pay a subsidy like they do for other residents?
  43. Will I have to sell my home?

Financial assistance
  1. What benefits are available to me as a carer?

For carers
  1. Because I am the only one who doesn't have a partner my brothers and sister have expected me to give up work to look after Mum now she needs a full-time carer. They don't give me much help with Mum and sometimes criticise what I am doing. This is quite difficult for me.
  2. How can I get in touch with other young people who are carers?
  3. How do I find out about services for carers?
  4. How do I get in touch with other carers?
  5. I've heard of carer support groups - what can they actually do for me?
  6. I am currently looking after my mother and am finding it a real handful on top of a full working week. Will I ever get a break!?
  7. I can't give Dad all the care he needs. Am I being selfish in suggesting he move to an aged care home?
  8. I don't drive. The Home and Community Care people will take Dad to his medical appointments, but I need to go with him as he never remembers what the doctor says. Will they take me too?
  9. I don't have time to do all the housework at dad's as well as my own. I can't afford a commercial cleaning service. Can I get help?
  10. I need some help to shower and shave Dad - can I get it?
  11. I really need a break but Dad refuses to go into an aged care home or community house for respite care. What can I do?
  12. Is there only one carer support group in each state/territory or is there one near me?
  13. What benefits are available to me as a carer?
  14. What if my carer or I need a break?
  15. What payments are available for carers?
  16. Where can I get more information about caring for someone with dementia?

Health and well-being
  1. Are some foods better for me than others?
  2. As I get older I don't want to eat as much as I used to - what foods should I eat to be sure I stay healthy?
  3. How do I know how much exercise is good for me at my age?
  4. I'm fit enough physically, but now that I have retired the days seem to drag on and I feel I am getting mentally sluggish.
  5. I have arthritis in my legs and am often tired. How can exercise help me feel better?
  6. I know I should get more exercise but I can't afford to join a fitness club.
  7. I thought vaccinations were for children.
  8. I want to stay healthy as I get older. What are some of the things I should look out for?
  9. Why should I have an influenza vaccination every year?

Health conditions
  1. Dad has dementia. Is there any help we can get to look after him?
  2. Dad has Pick's disease (a type of dementia) and lately he's been quite physically violent to a few other residents. Can he be asked to leave the home?
  3. Even though I have a disability I have coped pretty well at home but now I am having trouble keeping the house clean and doing the laundry. I know other people get help with these things. How can I find out about it?
  4. How can we manage Dad's arthritis?
  5. How do I find services to help me look after someone with dementia?
  6. I'm an Aboriginal person - is there a palliative care program that would suit me?
  7. I'm worried about Mum. She is losing her sense of perspective and fretting excessively about things she can't influence, like international events. What can I do?
  8. I have arthritis in my legs and am often tired. How can exercise help me feel better?
  9. I have been assessed as needing low-level care and I am incontinent. How will the home care for me and will I have to buy my own pads? How do I do this if I am in an aged care home?
  10. I have complex chronic health problems. Most of the time I am reasonably well and manage at home. How can I get looked after at home at the times I am unwell?
  11. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. I am coping reasonably well otherwise, but keep getting my medication muddled up. I am thinking I might need to move to an aged care home. Is that right?
  12. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. My medication is in a Webster pack, but I often drop pills or leave them in the pack by accident. What help can I get with this?
  13. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. My medication is in a Webster pack, but I often drop pills or leave them in the pack by accident. What help can I get with this?
  14. I need more information about diabetes, where can I get it?
  15. Is end-of-life care available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  16. Is incontinence more common in women or men?
  17. Is there any help available for my sight impaired father?
  18. Is there anyone I can talk to about caring for somebody with dementia?
  19. Mum has had a walking frame for a few years now. It needs to have the brakes adjusted. How can I find out where to get the walking frame 'serviced'?
  20. Mum lives alone. She manages well, but I'm worried that she might fall and need help. What can I do?
  21. My mother's dementia has become much worse recently and my father, who is her main carer, can no longer look after her. She has been assessed as needing high-level care in a home with facilities for people with dementia. But I don't know where to start and the situation is urgent. What can I do?
  22. My mother is going into high-level dementia care and as a her main carer I would like to be an active participant in her care. How do I go about doing this?
  23. My mum has dementia and I am her representative for dealing with the Department about her fees. The Department has sent letters on the maximum fee mum can be charged, but I don't know how much the home charges.
  24. My mum is in the early stages of Alzheimer's and is quite forgetful, especially about her handbag. But she always wants her bag and always checks that her purse is in it. It takes a lot of my time finding the bag and reassuring her about her purse. Will the home do this?
  25. Now that Dad is getting older he is having trouble with his bladder - leaking a bit day or night. Can anything be done about this?
  26. Palliative care - if Mum is in pain, can it be eased?
  27. Some homes advertise 'dementia specific' care. What does this mean?
  28. Sometimes Mum is really low then a bit later she is quite happy, but I can't work out what causes the change.
  29. What is a chronic disease?
  30. Where can I find out how to self-manage my chronic condition?
  31. Where can I get continence management equipment free or cheap?
  32. Where can I get financial assistance for continence management equipment?
  33. Where can I get information about services for the visually impaired?
  34. Where can I get more information about caring for someone with dementia?
  35. Where can I get more information about Falls Prevention?
  36. Who can I speak with to get more information about Dementia?
  37. Who should I call about continence management?
  38. Why do people with dementia experience bladder control problems?

High-level care
  1. Granddad needs to go into a high-level care home. He requires meals in line with our religion. Will we have to pay extra for these meals?
  2. I need high-level care but I don't know how to track down Nursing Homes in my area. Is there a list of them anywhere?
  3. I receive a pension from Centrelink, currently live in my own home and need to enter an aged care home to receive high-level (nursing home) care. How much can I be asked to pay?
  4. My mother's dementia has become much worse recently and my father, who is her main carer, can no longer look after her. She has been assessed as needing high-level care in a home with facilities for people with dementia. But I don't know where to start and the situation is urgent. What can I do?

Home modifications and maintenance
  1. Mum uses a walking frame now. Is there help that I can get to make changes at home so she can move around more easily?

Home safety
  1. I think Mum and Dad need to upgrade their home security. Is there someone who can check it for us?
  2. Mum keeps forgetting that she has turned electrical appliances on - I'm scared that something will catch fire one day. What can I do?
  3. Mum lives alone. She manages well, but I'm worried that she might fall and need help. What can I do?
  4. Mum uses a walking frame now. Is there help that I can get to make changes at home so she can move around more easily?
  5. What sort of changes to the home can make life safer for older people?

How to access help
  1. Even though I have a disability I have coped pretty well at home but now I am having trouble keeping the house clean and doing the laundry. I know other people get help with these things. How can I find out about it?
  2. How do I get care while I am staying at home?
  3. How do I get help with depression?
  4. How do I know if I 'm eligible for any of these programs?
  5. I am starting to need a little help with everyday things at home. I know there is all of this help available but how do I find it?
  6. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  7. I have lived perfectly well at home on my own since my wife died, but people now are saying I should think about getting some help. How do I find out about it?
  8. I live at home and can do most things for myself. My family give me lots of help, but I feel very guilty and depressed about taking up their time. I've always helped them. What can I do?
  9. Mum is a war widow. Shecan't get on buses any more, and I live 600 kms away. How is she going to get to her medical appointments?
  10. My husband needs help as well. Do we both qualify, or is the help only available to one of us?
  11. My parents live together in an independent living unit in an aged care complex. Dad is quite frail and relies on my mum a lot. We think that he should go into an aged care home for respite to give mum a break from her caring role, but he refuses to go. What can we do?

Independent living
  1. I live alone and am getting older. My stove is worn out and I need a new one, but I need help to understand the technology they talk about in the shops. Is there someone who can help me?
  2. Where can I get information about equipment to help Mum manage at home now she is getting frail?

Information services
  1. I have an excellent doctor who has looked after me for many years. I would be comfortable talking with her about the help that I need at home. Does my doctor know about these services or should I talk to Commonwealth Carelink?
  2. It looks like Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres give information about all sorts of things. Do they book the people to come and provide the services for me in my home?
  3. What are community care services?
  4. What can a Carer Resource Centre do for me?
  5. What does a Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre do?
  6. What is the National Respite for Carers program?
  7. Where can I get information about day therapy programs?

Legal issues
  1. I know from arranging my husband's funeral that there are papers and things you have to have after someone dies. I want to get these ready for when I die. Where can I find a list of what I need?
  2. What information am I entitled to receive about my bond?

Living in an aged care home
  1. At home I have my routine of things I do each day. What will I do all day when I move to a home?
  2. Can I get allied health services for mum if she is in an aged care home?
  3. Can I have my own doctor?
  4. Can I leave the home to stay with my family sometimes?
  5. Can I still maintain a sexual relationship when I move into an aged care home?
  6. Can I take my furniture and pet with me?
  7. Dad is paying for extra services and that was OK to start with, but now we can't afford it. What can we do?
  8. Dad loves a bath at night, but in the home he mostly has a shower, and at 7.00am every second day when the staff are able to help him. But he would prefer to have a bath. Is there anything we can we do?
  9. Do I need to have another ACAT assessment to move to a different home?
  10. Do I need to let the home staff know whenever I go out for the day or can I just go?
  11. Granddad needs to go into a high-level care home. He requires meals in line with our religion. Will we have to pay extra for these meals?
  12. How can I let the aged care home know about my end-of-life care wishes?
  13. How do I know I will be safe if there's a fire in my aged care home?
  14. How long can I stay?
  15. How often will a Community Visitor come to see me?
  16. How private are rooms in aged care homes? Will staff just come in like they do in hospital?
  17. How will my privacy be protected?
  18. I've always smoked. Can I smoke in an aged care home?
  19. I've just gone into care and I want to know if there are any restrictions on what I am allowed to do in Aged Care. Where can I find this sort of information?
  20. I've never been keen on party games, spectator sports or group activities. Now I'm in the aged care home they are asking me join in the regular social activities like Bingo or watching football, but I am quite happy with my books and music. I have a couple of good friends and get on OK with the others at meals and when I go on some of the bus trips. Do I have to join in the activities?
  21. I am in a low-level care home and have coeliac disease. Should I be paying extra for gluten-free foods?
  22. I am in a relationship with someone and would like them to be able to stay overnight with me when we feel like it - does an aged care home cater for this?
  23. I don't have any family who visit me and haven't made friends in the home. I've heard that there are people who might visit me?
  24. I enjoy a beer before dinner and a glass or two of wine with dinner - can I have this in an aged care home? Would I pay extra for alcohol?
  25. I have been assessed as needing low-level care and I am incontinent. How will the home care for me and will I have to buy my own pads? How do I do this if I am in an aged care home?
  26. I need an insulin injection twice daily and the home says I have to pay for the nurse to come and do this. Is that right?
  27. I only came to this home until a room in the one closer to my daughter becomes available, but I don't know if I'll even be considered now - what can I do?
  28. I visit my mum regularly in her aged care home, but notice that many residents don't seem to have visitors. How can I help them?
  29. If I go to hospital, will I have to pay hospital fees as well as fees to the aged care home?
  30. If I just need to move to high-level care in another part of the same home what happens to my bond?
  31. In what circumstances can I be asked to leave an aged care home?
  32. Mum has had her own room since she went into the home two years ago. Now she is being asked to move permanently to a shared room and she doesn't want to. What can we do?
  33. My children live interstate. While I was at home I had plenty of social contact each day. Now I'm in the home my friends visit occasionally, but I miss the conversation and company I used to have. What can I do?
  34. My dad needs to attend a dental surgery for treatment. Does the home pay for this and arrange the visit?
  35. My doctor has recommended that I need a pressure-relieving air mattress. Does the home have to provide this or do I have to pay for it?
  36. My father is sharing a room with three other men. It is like a hospital ward. Aren't aged care homes supposed to be different?
  37. My mother has gone into an aged care home. Now my father has been assessed as needing care. How can I ensure they can stay together?
  38. My Mum is a low-level care resident and gets her medication given to her from a special 'Webster' pack. She is charged by the home for this. Is this right?
  39. My mum is in an aged care home and is getting a bit confused. The home has a hairdresser and nail care times each week, but mum's hair and nails need cutting. Shouldn't someone remind her to use these services?
  40. My mum is in the early stages of Alzheimer's and is quite forgetful, especially about her handbag. But she always wants her bag and always checks that her purse is in it. It takes a lot of my time finding the bag and reassuring her about her purse. Will the home do this?
  41. My mum is very physically dependent and also has depression. She has lived in a low-level care aged care home for three months. Mostly the staff are wonderful but a new staff member tells mum that she is just lazy and should walk more. This is very upsetting for mum - how can I stop this behaviour?
  42. My parents are thinking of moving into an aged care home. Will they be able to share a room?
  43. Once I enter into care can I still have holidays with my family and friends?
  44. Recently I took mum some moussaka I made to her recipe. The home said the food I brought mightn't be safe for mum. Its one of her favourite meals. Is there anything I can do?
  45. The aged care home where mum lives, is closing, Where will she go? What happens to her bond?
  46. The home Dad is in has just been given extra-service status. We can't afford any extra fees. Will Dad have to move?
  47. The home has switched to pre-packaged meals and mum complains that she never gets any fresh vegetables or salad any more. Can they do this?
  48. What are the nutritional requirements for meals in aged care homes
  49. What happens if I move from one aged care home to another?
  50. What happens if I move from one low-level (hostel) care to another low-level aged care home?
  51. What will happen to my bond if I am asked to move into high care?
  52. What will the food be like?
  53. When can my carer visit me in the aged care home?
  54. Who will take me to hospital if I need to go and will my place at the home be kept for me?
  55. Will all my care needs and preferences be documented somewhere?
  56. Will I be able to continue to see my own doctor?
  57. Will I be able to use the internet to continue to chat with friends and family?
  58. Will I receive nursing care if required in a retirement village?
  59. Will the home arrange transport for outside medical appointments?

Low-level care
  1. Aunty is in low level care. After she has paid for her fees, medicine and continence aids she has no money left for clothes, laundry or personal items. Is there anything that can be done about this?
  2. I am a self-funded retiree, currently live in my own home and need to enter an aged care home to receive low (hostel) level care. How much could I be asked to pay?
  3. I am in a low-level care home and have coeliac disease. Should I be paying extra for gluten-free foods?
  4. What happens if I move from one low-level (hostel) care to another low-level aged care home?

Medications
  1. Can I give medications to the person I care for?
  2. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. I am coping reasonably well otherwise, but keep getting my medication muddled up. I am thinking I might need to move to an aged care home. Is that right?
  3. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. My medication is in a Webster pack, but I often drop pills or leave them in the pack by accident. What help can I get with this?
  4. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. My medication is in a Webster pack, but I often drop pills or leave them in the pack by accident. What help can I get with this?
  5. If I am concerned about the effect medication is having on the person I care for, who can I talk to for advice?
  6. My regular medicines are in a Webster pack, but those I use only occasionally are still in the original packaging. I'm having trouble opening the bottle or the foil packet. Who can help me with this?
  7. My regular medicines are in a Webster pack, but those I use only occasionally are still in the original packaging. I'm having trouble opening the bottle or the foil packet. Can anyone help me with this?
  8. Where can I find out how to self-manage my chronic condition?

Mental health
  1. Are mental illnesses a form of intellectual disability or brain damage?
  2. Are mental illnesses incurable and lifelong?
  3. Are people with a mental illness usually dangerous?
  4. Can anyone develop a mental illness?
  5. Depression. If it happened once, will it happen again?
  6. How do I get help with depression?
  7. I'm fit enough physically, but now that I have retired the days seem to drag on and I feel I am getting mentally sluggish.
  8. I'm worried about Mum. She is losing her sense of perspective and fretting excessively about things she can't influence, like international events. What can I do?
  9. My husband is already getting help through a Community Aged Care Package (CACP) but he's having a tough time and I think he could do with some counselling. How can we arrange this?
  10. My mum is very physically dependent and also has depression. She has lived in a low-level care aged care home for three months. Mostly the staff are wonderful but a new staff member tells mum that she is just lazy and should walk more. This is very upsetting for mum - how can I stop this behaviour?
  11. The person I care for sometimes gets angry and violent. What can I do about this?
  12. What causes anxiety disorders and is treatment available?
  13. Where can I find more information about depression?

Particular health conditions
  1. I'm an Aboriginal person - is there a palliative care program that would suit me?
  2. Is end-of-life care available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  3. My mother's dementia has become much worse recently and my father, who is her main carer, can no longer look after her. She has been assessed as needing high-level care in a home with facilities for people with dementia. But I don't know where to start and the situation is urgent. What can I do?

Planning for the future
  1. I have an allocated pension which does not allow me to get access to the capital. How is this counted in my assets test?
  2. Some of my friends gifted their assets to their family before they had an assets test for aged care. Is this still allowed and how much can I gift?
  3. How do I raise the need for care in the future with someone who is still healthy?

Programs and services
  1. Are there additional costs if I swap to Telstra from my phone company to receive equipment from the Disability Equipment Program?
  2. Can I find out more about what each of these services that Home and Community Care offers actually do? Meal preparation - do they come to my house to cook my dinner? And do my laundry in my washing machine?
  3. Can I get allied health services for mum if she is in an aged care home?
  4. Can I get palliative care at home?
  5. Dad turns his hearing aid off because it 'annoys him' and has missed collecting his Meals on Wheels because he didn't hear the doorbell or the 'phone. Is there anything we can do?
  6. Do I have to be a certain age to qualify for Community Aged Care Package services? How old is it?
  7. Do we have to pay for Home and Community Care services?
  8. Even though I have a disability I have coped pretty well at home but now I am having trouble keeping the house clean and doing the laundry. I know other people get help with these things. How can I find out about it?
  9. How can I find out about programs to help me care for someone?
  10. How can I find out if there are volunteers who can help me look after Dad?
  11. How can I obtain a Home and Community Care service?
  12. How can I tell which of these programs are best suited to my needs? Is there someone who can help me?
  13. How can we manage Dad's arthritis?
  14. How do I arrange for the care and support to be delivered at times that suit me? Will they come on time?
  15. How do I find out about respite care services?
  16. How do I find out about services for carers?
  17. How do I find services to help me look after someone with dementia?
  18. How do I know if I 'm eligible for any of these programs?
  19. How do I know if I am eligible for a Home and Community Care service?
  20. How does the Day Therapy Centre decide what therapy I need?
  21. How will I get to and from the Day Therapy Centre?
  22. I'm finding it difficult to do the washing and ironing. I hate my clothes looking untidy. Is there any way I can get help?
  23. I am a Torres Strait Islander person and I have recently moved to a regional town in Queensland. Can I still get help through HACC or is it only for regional and remote areas?
  24. I do have people come in to help me, and they are very good. But sometimes it just seems that I need more help, that everything is getting too difficult. What should I do?
  25. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  26. I don't have Telstra phones, but have a disability that affects how I use the phone. Can I still get equipment to help me, or must I change over to Telstra to receive help?
  27. I don't have time to do all the housework at dad's as well as my own. I can't afford a commercial cleaning service. Can I get help?
  28. I find it hard to do the shopping. What can I do?
  29. I have an excellent doctor who has looked after me for many years. I would be comfortable talking with her about the help that I need at home. Does my doctor know about these services or should I talk to Commonwealth Carelink?
  30. I know of Day Therapy Centres, but what is Centre-based Day Care?
  31. I live at home and can do most things for myself. My family give me lots of help, but I feel very guilty and depressed about taking up their time. I've always helped them. What can I do?
  32. I need some help to shower and shave Dad - can I get it?
  33. If there are no Extended Aged Care at Home services available, or it doesn't suit me, what else can I do?
  34. Mum lives in a rural area. How can I get a podiatrist for her?
  35. Mum uses a walking frame now. Is there help that I can get to make changes at home so she can move around more easily?
  36. My elderly mother has come to live with me on my farm. She needs help with showering, dressing and other personal care. I am away from the house most of the day - can we get help with these things even though we are a few hours drive from the nearest town?
  37. My husband is already getting help through a Community Aged Care Package (CACP) but he's having a tough time and I think he could do with some counselling. How can we arrange this?
  38. There are lots of little things need doing around the house but I can't quite manage to do them now. I can't afford to pay tradesmen. Is there someone who can help me?
  39. What aged care support is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  40. What are Community Aged Care Packages?
  41. What are Extended Aged Care at Home Dementia packages?
  42. What are Extended Aged Care at Home Packages?
  43. What do I do if my phone stops working and I need to arrange Priority Assistance?
  44. What if these programs don't suit my needs? Where can I go for help?
  45. What is the Home and Community Care program?
  46. What sort of help can I expect to receive to help me stay at home?
  47. Where can I get an application form for Telstra Priority Assistance?
  48. Where can I get information about day therapy programs?
  49. Who provides Extended Aged Care at Home services?
  50. Will I have a choice about the activities that I would do at a Day Therapy Centre?

Rights and responsibilities
  1. How do I know if Mum is being treated properly by the care provider?
  2. How private are rooms in aged care homes? Will staff just come in like they do in hospital?
  3. How will my privacy be protected?
  4. I've just gone into care and I want to know if there are any restrictions on what I am allowed to do in Aged Care. Where can I find this sort of information?
  5. I've never been keen on party games, spectator sports or group activities. Now I'm in the aged care home they are asking me join in the regular social activities like Bingo or watching football, but I am quite happy with my books and music. I have a couple of good friends and get on OK with the others at meals and when I go on some of the bus trips. Do I have to join in the activities?
  6. I feel like the home doesn't respect my rights. What can I do?
  7. If I am not happy with the Australian Government-subsidised aged care services I receive, who do I notify?
  8. Mum has had her own room since she went into the home two years ago. Now she is being asked to move permanently to a shared room and she doesn't want to. What can we do?
  9. Mum is in an aged care home and in the terminal stages of cancer. The home says they cannot look after her and that she has to go to hospital for treatment, but mum doesn't want to go. Can they insist?
  10. My father sees a lot of medical and allied health professionals who visit him at the home. I don't know why he needs to see so many people, and I don't know what they do for him. Dad doesn't seem to know either. I'm pleased dad is receiving care, but is there a way I can find out what it is all for?
  11. Once I go into an aged care home, do I have to stay there?
  12. What happens if I move from one aged care home to another?
  13. What happens if I move from one low-level (hostel) care to another low-level aged care home?

Services for carers
  1. How do I find out about services for carers?

Short-term care
  1. Am I eligible for Transition Care?
  2. How do I find out about respite care services?
  3. How long does Transition Care last?
  4. I'm tired all the time looking after my uncle. What can I do?
  5. I am about to be discharged from hospital and need some additional support to fully recover. Who can help?
  6. I am currently looking after my mother and am finding it a real handful on top of a full working week. Will I ever get a break!?
  7. I need to arrange respite care for Dad. Who can help me?
  8. I really need a break but Dad refuses to go into an aged care home or community house for respite care. What can I do?
  9. If I'm receiving transition care will I have to contribute to the daily cost?
  10. Is respite care available in extra-service homes?
  11. My aunt was taken to hospital with a minor infection. They say at her age she should be in a home, although she has been managing quite well. She does not want to go into a home. What can we do?
  12. My grandmother can't speak English and I have to go to hospital for an operation. Is there somewhere that she can have respite care where she can be understood? How can I find it?
  13. My parents live together in an independent living unit in an aged care complex. Dad is quite frail and relies on my mum a lot. We think that he should go into an aged care home for respite to give mum a break from her caring role, but he refuses to go. What can we do?
  14. The doctor says I am ready to leave hospital, but I'm not sure I'll be able cope at home immediately. What can I do?
  15. What does a Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre do?
  16. What happens if I suddenly get sick?
  17. What if my carer or I need a break?
  18. What is the National Respite for Carers program?
  19. What short-term care is available through Home and Community Care?
  20. What sort of services will be provided under Transition Care?
  21. Where will the transition care be provided?
  22. Who arranges in-home respite? How can I get it?
  23. Why do I need an ACAT assessment for respite in an aged care home, but not for respite in the community?

Standards and complaints
  1. Are families consulted on whether we think the standard of care in a particular aged care home is good or not?
  2. Are some residential aged care homes better at providing palliative care? How can I find them?
  3. Aunty is in low level care. After she has paid for her fees, medicine and continence aids she has no money left for clothes, laundry or personal items. Is there anything that can be done about this?
  4. Can I make a complaint about any type of aged care service to the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme?
  5. Can I participate in the Quality Reporting process so I can provide feedback on the services I receive?
  6. Can my care level change after I have been in the home for a while? Would a home ask me to leave?
  7. Dad has Pick's disease (a type of dementia) and lately he's been quite physically violent to a few other residents. Can he be asked to leave the home?
  8. Dad loves a bath at night, but in the home he mostly has a shower, and at 7.00am every second day when the staff are able to help him. But he would prefer to have a bath. Is there anything we can we do?
  9. Do I need to let the home staff know whenever I go out for the day or can I just go?
  10. How can I access accreditation reports for specific homes?
  11. How can I complain about a publicly-funded aged care service?
  12. How can I find all the homes that are run by a particular provider?
  13. How can I find out about the organisation that owns a home and whether they are 'for profit' or 'not-for-profit' or what their philosophy of care might be?
  14. How can I let the aged care home know about my end-of-life care wishes?
  15. How can the government be sure that homes meet the required physical standards?
  16. How do I find out about a home's financial status?
  17. How do I know I will be safe if there's a fire in my aged care home?
  18. How do I know if I am receiving quality care?
  19. How do I know if the aged care home provides quality care?
  20. How does the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme work?
  21. I'm frightened to complain in case the care staff get upset with me.
  22. I'm not confident of talking with people when it might be a difficult or complex conversation. Is there anyone who can support me if I have a concern about an aged care home?
  23. I've found a home I like but they say they can't look after me as I'm over 110kg. Can they do this?
  24. I bought Dad some beautiful woollen jumpers but when they needed washing, the care staff at the home forgot they needed special care and put them in the dryer - now they are ruined. Is there anything I can do?
  25. I do not agree with the ACAT assessment of my relative. What can I do?
  26. I feel like the home doesn't respect my rights. What can I do?
  27. I have asked the home to restrain my mother as she is continually falling over but they have said that they have a restraint free policy? What are my rights to have my mother protected?
  28. I have talked to the home about my concerns and nothing has changed. What can I do?
  29. I live in a hostel and one of the women who lives near my room sometimes comes into my room during the day. What can I do?
  30. I need an insulin injection twice daily and the home says I have to pay for the nurse to come and do this. Is that right?
  31. I would like someone to talk to the home for me about things I need help with. Is there someone who can help with this?
  32. If I am concerned about the effect medication is having on the person I care for, who can I talk to for advice?
  33. If I have a complaint and the aged care service provider won't assist, who can help me?
  34. If mum was hurt by another resident, what rights would I have in asking for action to be taken?
  35. Is it possible to tell if someone is being abused?
  36. Is there a cost associated with appealing against the ACAT assessment or their recommendations?
  37. Mum is in an aged care home and in the terminal stages of cancer. The home says they cannot look after her and that she has to go to hospital for treatment, but mum doesn't want to go. Can they insist?
  38. Mum lives alone and has some help from the local Council. She is supposed to have a case manager, but never hears from her and now the cleaner hasn't been for 6 weeks. What can we do?
  39. My father is sharing a room with three other men. It is like a hospital ward. Aren't aged care homes supposed to be different?
  40. My father sees a lot of medical and allied health professionals who visit him at the home. I don't know why he needs to see so many people, and I don't know what they do for him. Dad doesn't seem to know either. I'm pleased dad is receiving care, but is there a way I can find out what it is all for?
  41. My mother is receiving excellent service in her aged care home. I would like to provide feedback about that - is there a way I can provide positive feedback?
  42. My mum is in an aged care home and is getting a bit confused. The home has a hairdresser and nail care times each week, but mum's hair and nails need cutting. Shouldn't someone remind her to use these services?
  43. My mum is very physically dependent and also has depression. She has lived in a low-level care aged care home for three months. Mostly the staff are wonderful but a new staff member tells mum that she is just lazy and should walk more. This is very upsetting for mum - how can I stop this behaviour?
  44. Once I send an application form to a home, how long will they keep it on their records?
  45. One of the reasons Mum and Dad chose the retirement village they are in was that there is also a nice residential aged care home there. Now Dad needs to move to residential care, but the home says they can't take him as they have no vacancies. Can they do this?
  46. Recently I took mum some moussaka I made to her recipe. The home said the food I brought mightn't be safe for mum. Its one of her favourite meals. Is there anything I can do?
  47. The aged care home where mum lives, is closing, Where will she go? What happens to her bond?
  48. The home has rung to say I need to buy a helmet for mum to wear as she is continually having falls. I don't know whether this is good practice or not - how can I get more information and find out if the home is doing the right thing?
  49. The home has switched to pre-packaged meals and mum complains that she never gets any fresh vegetables or salad any more. Can they do this?
  50. What are the nutritional requirements for meals in aged care homes
  51. What can you complain about?
  52. What care and services should all homes provide at no cost to residents?
  53. What do I do if I'm not happy with the care I'm receiving in an aged care home?
  54. What happens when a home does not comply with the accreditation standards?
  55. What if an extra-service home does not provide the extras they say they do?
  56. What if I am not happy with the response from the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme?
  57. What information am I entitled to receive about my bond?
  58. What is the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme?
  59. When I first visited the home I was impressed by the way it looked, but now that I have moved in I am not really happy with the care services provided. Is there anything I can do?
  60. Where can I find out more information on how the standards work?
  61. Where can I find the Australian Government standards for community care?
  62. Who can complain to the Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme?
  63. Who checks homes in between accreditation?
  64. Will all my care needs and preferences be documented somewhere?

Transport
  1. How will I get to and from the Day Therapy Centre?
  2. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  3. I don't drive. The Home and Community Care people will take Dad to his medical appointments, but I need to go with him as he never remembers what the doctor says. Will they take me too?
  4. Mum is a war widow. She can't get on buses any more, and I live 600 kms away. How is she going to get to her medical appointments?

Types of care and services
  1. Apart from Independent Living Units and retirement villages, what other types of accommodation might be suitable for older people who are fairly independent?
  2. Are some residential aged care homes better at providing palliative care? How can I find them?
  3. At home I have my routine of things I do each day. What will I do all day when I move to a home?
  4. Can I find a home that will cater for all of my care needs as I get older or need more assistance, so I don't need to move around?
  5. Can I get allied health services for mum if she is in an aged care home?
  6. Can my care level change after I have been in the home for a while? Would a home ask me to leave?
  7. Dad is paying for extra services and that was OK to start with, but now we can't afford it. What can we do?
  8. Do I have to be living in a extra-service home to be able to get additional services?
  9. Do many homes offer extra service?
  10. Granddad needs to go into a high-level care home. He requires meals in line with our religion. Will we have to pay extra for these meals?
  11. How do I find out if a home has extra service status?
  12. I am in a low-level care home and have coeliac disease. Should I be paying extra for gluten-free foods?
  13. Is nursing care provided in low-level care if needed?
  14. My doctor has recommended that I need a pressure-relieving air mattress. Does the home have to provide this or do I have to pay for it?
  15. My mother's dementia has become much worse recently and my father, who is her main carer, can no longer look after her. She has been assessed as needing high-level care in a home with facilities for people with dementia. But I don't know where to start and the situation is urgent. What can I do?
  16. My parents live together in an independent living unit in an aged care complex. Dad is quite frail and relies on my mum a lot. We think that he should go into an aged care home for respite to give mum a break from her caring role, but he refuses to go. What can we do?
  17. Palliative care - if Mum is in pain, can it be eased?
  18. Some homes advertise 'dementia specific' care. What does this mean?
  19. The home Dad is in has just been given extra-service status. We can't afford any extra fees. Will Dad have to move?
  20. What additional costs can I expect to pay for an extra-service place?
  21. What are 'Specified Care and Services'?
  22. What if I improve in high care and can move to a low-level care home? Do I have to pay a bond?
  23. What is 'ageing in place'?
  24. What is a hospice?
  25. What is extra service?
  26. What is the difference between HACC and the home care program for veterans?
  27. What services do aged care homes provide?
  28. What sort of accommodation and care is available in residential aged care homes?
  29. What sort of accommodation and care is available in residential aged care homes?
  30. What sort of services do Independent Living Units offer and who are they for? How much do they cost?
  31. What types of care are available?
  32. Will I receive nursing care if required in a retirement village?

What help is available?
  1. Dad has trouble eating. Is there someone who can help him?
  2. Even though I have a disability I have coped pretty well at home but now I am having trouble keeping the house clean and doing the laundry. I know other people get help with these things. How can I find out about it?
  3. How would I know if the person I care for would benefit from allied health support?
  4. I'm finding it difficult to do the washing and ironing. I hate my clothes looking untidy. Is there any way I can get help?
  5. I am starting to need a little help with everyday things at home. I know there is all of this help available but how do I find it?
  6. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  7. I don't drive and I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get on the bus. How will I be able to do my banking and shopping, especially for clothing and larger items, not just groceries?
  8. I don't know whether my father can get help to stay at home or if he would be better cared for if he moved to an aged care home. How is the decision made?
  9. I find it hard to do the shopping. What can I do?
  10. I have complex chronic health problems. Most of the time I am reasonably well and manage at home. How can I get looked after at home at the times I am unwell?
  11. I have lived perfectly well at home on my own since my wife died, but people now are saying I should think about getting some help. How do I find out about it?
  12. I have several chronic health problems, with quite complex medication. My medication is in a Webster pack, but I often drop pills or leave them in the pack by accident. What help can I get with this?
  13. I live alone and am getting older. My stove is worn out and I need a new one, but I need help to understand the technology they talk about in the shops. Is there someone who can help me?
  14. I live at home and can do most things for myself. My family give me lots of help, but I feel very guilty and depressed about taking up their time. I've always helped them. What can I do?
  15. I really can't manage at home any more. What can I do?
  16. My elderly mother has come to live with me on my farm. She needs help with showering, dressing and other personal care. I am away from the house most of the day - can we get help with these things even though we are a few hours drive from the nearest town?
  17. My grandpa is looking scruffy as he gets older because he isn't showering very often or shaving. Is there someone who can help him? How do we arrange it?
  18. There are lots of little things need doing around the house but I can't quite manage to do them now. I can't afford to pay tradesmen. Is there someone who can help me?
  19. What assistance is available as people get older?
  20. What help is there for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?
  21. What if I'm not sure whether I need to move to an aged care home?
  22. What sort of help can I expect to receive to help me stay at home?

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