As they get older many people will suffer a fall or another sudden illness or injury.This is often the catalyst for moving into residential aged care.If you require ongoing care, this can be seen as a safe and easy choice.

However, for many people moving into residential aged care is not their preferred option. The good news is there are other choices available.

So, what are the other options available?

Alternative aged care options

Increased home care support

For many people, staying at home is their preferred option. That’s why demand for home care services has increased significantly in recent years. The type of support you are eligible for depends on the services that you need.

The Commonwealth Home support program is designed for those who need assistance to stay independent. It is recommended for those who need assistance with a few tasks. Meanwhile, home care packages are designed for those with more complex care needs. From July 1, Home Care Packages will transition into a new Support At Home program. As part of these changes, the yearly funding cap for home care services has increased from $61,440 to $78,000.

Services offered include meal and food preparation, nursing, therapy, home and garden maintenance, cleaning and laundry and transport.

Transition care

Transition care is designed specifically for those recovering from a hospital stay. It offers short term specialised care for up to 12 weeks. This type of care is intended to help you regain your functioning and confidence. Transition care is tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences. It can be delivered in the home, at an aged care facility or out in the community. It can include various services including:
• Therapy services: This may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, dietetics, speech pathology, counselling, social work and social activities.
• Nursing support: This involves clinical care carried out by a registered nurse. It could include pain management, wound care, oxygen therapy, medication assistance, dementia care, and catheter care.
• Personal care: Personal care involves providing support with everyday tasks. This could include: bathing showering and dressing, eating, maintaining continence, mobility and communication

Residential respite care

Residential respite care involves a short stay in an aged care facility. This could be for a few days or a few weeks. People who receive residential respite care are entitled to use the same services and facilities as residents of the aged care home. Each eligible individual is entitled to up to 63 days a year of residential respite care.

Short term restorative care

Short term restorative care is designed to help reverse or slow the difficulties individuals may face in performing everyday tasks. This support is tailored to each person but may include:

• Activities and exercises to help improve strength and balance
• Installing minor modifications like bathroom rails in the home
• Support from a dietician to help you prepare nutritious meals

How do I know which type of care is right for me?

Before you are eligible to receive any form of care, it is likely you will need an aged care assessment. If you are in hospital, this will be organised during your stay. An assessment will help determine how much care you need and the type of care that would be most beneficial.

An Aged care advocate can also help you establish support services following your stay in hospital. Advocacy services are available free of charge across Australia by calling the Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600

Are you looking to make a difference? Aged care offers a rewarding career with endless opportunities available.

If you’re considering a career in aged care, aged care resumes can help. We are pleased to offer various services including our aged care resume and selection criteria writing service.

Article References

Department Of Health And Aged Care (n.d) ‘Support at home program handbook‘, Department Of Health And Aged Care, accessed 25 March 2025.

Jacobs, A (12 March 2025) ‘Is residential care the right choice after hospital?’, Hellocare, accessed 25 March 2025.

My Aged Care (n.d) ‘Help at home’, My Aged Care, accessed 25 March 2025.

My Aged Care (n.d) ‘Respite care’, My Aged Care, accessed 25 March 2025.

My Aged Care (n.d) ‘Transition Care’, My Aged Care, accessed 25 March 2025.