I’m helping manage my parent’s aged care services. How can we make changes if their needs or circumstances change?
It’s completely normal for your parent’s needs and situation to change over time. Whether they need a temporary adjustment or a bigger shift in their care arrangements, it’s possible to manage and modify aged care services to ensure they continue to meet their needs. Here’s a guide on how to navigate these changes with confidence and support.
What Changes Can Be Made?
You can make adjustments to the following aspects of your parent’s aged care services:
- When Services Are Delivered:
- If your parent is going on holiday or needs a temporary pause in care, you can arrange to change the timing of their services.
- What Services Are Received:
- If your parent’s care needs change, you can update the type or level of services they receive to ensure they get the appropriate support.
- The Service Provider:
- If you need to change providers due to service quality, location, or other reasons, you can explore different options and make the switch.
Steps to Manage or Change Services
The process depends on the type of care your parent is currently receiving:
- Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP):
- For entry-level care, contact the current service provider to discuss changes or pauses in services.
- Home Care Package (HCP):
- For more complex and coordinated care, work with the current provider to update the care plan. If changing providers, you’ll need to give notice and ensure funds are transferred to the new provider.
- Residential Respite Care:
- If your parent’s short-term stay needs to change, speak to the aged care home to adjust the dates or services.
- Transition Care:
- For post-hospital recovery services, coordinate with the transition care provider to modify the care plan if needed.
- Short-Term Restorative Care:
- Work with the care team to review and adjust goals, care needs, and services during the program.
- Aged Care Home:
- If your parent is in permanent residential care and their needs change, discuss care adjustments or the possibility of moving rooms with the aged care home.
Accessing the My Aged Care Online Account
You can view details of your parent’s current services, providers, and assessments through the My Aged Care Online Account. This allows you to:
- Check what services are being provided.
- Review assessment results and care plans.
- Manage provider details and updates.
Learn how to access the My Aged Care Online Account.
What If You Have Concerns About Services?
Your parent has the right to receive quality care and be treated with respect. If you’re concerned about their services, follow these steps:
- Speak to the Provider First:
- Many issues can be resolved by discussing concerns directly with the provider.
- Escalate the Concern:
- If you’re not satisfied with the provider’s response, you can escalate the issue.
- Make a Complaint:
- Contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission for support and to lodge a formal complaint if necessary.
Learn more about raising concerns and making a complaint.
Final Thoughts
Managing your parent’s aged care services can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. There are systems in place to help you adapt services as needs change. By staying informed, accessing the right resources, and knowing where to seek help, you can ensure your parent receives the care and support they deserve.
