What if Mum Has Been to Hospital and Needs Extra Care
It can be really worrying when your mum has been in the hospital, and you want to make sure she recovers fully and regains her independence. This is where Transition Care can help. It provides short-term, specialised care and support to help her get back on her feet and avoid the need for long-term care.
What is Transition Care?
Transition Care is designed to help your mum recover safely and confidently after a hospital stay. It offers a personalized plan to help her regain strength, independence, and confidence. This care can be provided:
- In her own home.
- In an aged care home.
- Out in the community.
- In a combination of these locations, depending on her needs.
What Support is Available?
1. Therapy Services
These therapies help your mum regain her physical and mental abilities, including:
- Physiotherapy: Exercises to rebuild strength and mobility.
- Occupational Therapy: Helps her manage daily tasks more easily.
- Podiatry: Foot care to maintain mobility and comfort.
- Dietetics: Nutritional advice to support recovery.
- Speech Pathology: Assistance with communication or swallowing issues.
- Counselling and Social Work: Emotional support and connections to community resources.
2. Nursing Support
Clinical care provided by registered nurses, such as:
- Pain Management
- Wound Care
- Medication Assistance
- Dementia Support
- Oxygen Therapy
3. Personal Care
Help with everyday tasks, including:
- Showering, Bathing, and Grooming
- Dressing and Toileting
- Eating and Using Eating Aids
- Mobility Assistance (walking, using a wheelchair, etc.)
How Does it Work?
- Hospital Assessment: While your mum is in the hospital, ask the staff to arrange a Transition Care Assessment or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.
- Eligibility: If she’s eligible, a transition care provider will help coordinate her care plan and assist with the transition out of the hospital.
- Care Plan: The provider will tailor her care to her recovery goals and ensure she gets the right support.
Where Can the Care Be Provided?
- At Home: If her care needs are manageable, services can be provided in her home or community.
- In an Aged Care Home: If she needs 24/7 support, a short stay in a residential care home may be best.
- A Mix of Locations: Her care can transition between home, community, and aged care facilities as her recovery progresses.
How Long Does Transition Care Last?
- Up to 12 Weeks (84 Days): Initial approval for care.
- Possible Extension: Up to an additional 6 weeks (42 days) if needed, with another assessment.
- Repeat Access: There’s no limit on how many times she can apply for transition care in a year if she needs it again.
How Much Will It Cost?
- At Home or in the Community: Maximum of $13.08 per day (17.5% of the single age pension).
- In a Residential Setting: Maximum of $63.57 per day (85% of the single age pension).
Note: Costs are based on ability to contribute, but your mum’s access to transition care won’t be affected if she can’t afford to pay.
Why Transition Care is Important
- Regains Independence: Helps your mum recover and return to her normal routine sooner.
- Personalized Care: Tailored to her specific recovery goals.
- Peace of Mind: Ensures she gets the right care in the right place during a vulnerable time.
Next Steps
If your mum is in the hospital and needs extra support, speak to the hospital staff about arranging a Transition Care Assessment or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. This can make all the difference in helping her recover and return home safely.
You’re doing a wonderful job by looking out for her — help is available, and you don’t have to do this alone.
