Aged Care Essentials
November 9, 2021
The Greenhill Guide
Feeling daunted about Aged Care? Rest assured—you’re not alone. At Greenhill Aged Care, Figtree, we’re available to answer your questions and explain your options clearly. From learning the industry lingo to knowing the difference between government funded Aged Care and retirement living communities, our handy guide will help streamline the process of arranging care to suit your needs.
What is an Aged Care home?
When older people can no longer live independently and need help staying on top of their health and everyday tasks, Aged Care homes offer a holistic solution. Also known as nursing homes, these communities assume responsibility for the health and wellbeing of residents. Every resident in an Aged Care home receives professional care, regardless of their status as a full-time or temporary (respite) resident.
What type of care is offered?
Aged Care homes must provide the necessary care and services to meet your needs. While every Aged Care home is unique, the Australian Government defines the care they provide across three main categories: Accommodation (your individual room and the essential furniture in it), Hotel-type services (your personal needs like meals, and facilities management costs like utilities and maintenance) and care & support services (from personal hygiene to nursing support, therapy services and mobility goods).
Does Dementia Care fall under Aged Care?
Yes. Our specialty memory care unit, Greenhill Lodge is an important part of Greenhill Aged Care. An exceptional team of memory care specialists and highly experienced nurses work tirelessly to reinforce the identity, self-esteem, and confidence of memory care every resident. Greenhill Lodge also features many unobtrusive dementia-friendly features to assist with day-to-day living, including industry-leading specialty bedding and a safe, sensory environment for residents and their families to enjoy. For more information, please contact us.
How much does Aged Care cost?
The Government subsidises a range of Aged Care homes across Australia, including Greenhill Manor & Hillside. While a variety of Accommodation options is offered, Aged Care is generally comprised of the following costs. Amounts correct 20 September 2021. Find out more about our Care Costs.
| GREENHILL MANOR | HILLSIDE | |
| DAILY CARE FEE | $53.56 | $53.56 |
| This fee covers a range of costs including accommodation, laundry, meals, care services and activities. | ||
| MEANS TESTED CARE FEE | $50 | $50 |
| Initial charge of $50 per day upon permanent entry. Amount may be adjusted upon completion of Centrelink’s Assets and Income Assessment. | ||
| EXTRA/ADDITIONAL SERVICE FEE | $20 (Hallmark Service) | $20.90 (Extra Service) |
| Highlights include Foxtel, daily newspapers, quality dining including wine and beer, and wireless Internet. A complete list of services is available upon request. | ||
Any other fees to mention?
A Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is a lump-sum accommodation payment which is fully refundable when you leave. Each Aged Care room in Australia has its own RAD price which can be paid in full, or in smaller amounts combined with a Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP). A higher upfront RAD payment will lower your DAP. Any amount paid as a RAD is Government-guaranteed to the resident, as per your Resident Agreement.
Great, what’s next?
To find the right Aged Care home for you, the first step is to visit My Aged Care to request an assessment of your care needs and the required process following your assessment. At any stage of the process, please don’t hesitate to contact Greenhill Aged Care for yourself, or on behalf of a loved one. We’d love the opportunity to highlight our exceptional Aged Care approach at Hillside and Greenhill Manor, and the wonderful lifestyle you can enjoy!
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors.
Please consult your own legal or financial advisors before making any decisions.