Research shows that older Australians are increasingly wanting to avoid residential aged care. Around 60% would prefer not to enter an aged care home, while 72% say they are willing to pay more to access care at home instead.

This shift reflects changing expectations around ageing, with many people placing greater value on independence, familiarity and control over their daily lives.

So, what are the reasons behind this trend?

What are the reasons for this trend?

One of the key benefits of aging at home is maintaining freedom and control over your life. Many older people prefer the autonomy that comes with living in their own home. For example, they can choose when they want to eat or what care they want to receive.

It also allows you to maintain your social connections. You can continue to have your friends come over and be involved in family and community activities.

Staying in familiar surroundings is also important for many people especially those whose memory is failing. It can help to enhance their emotional wellbeing.

Being able to keep your pets is also another key factor in people deciding to remain at home. Having pets can be key to combatting loneliness as you age.

The rise of private in-home care

Why more Australians are turning to private care

Increasingly, some Australians who can afford it are turning to private in-home aged care services. This is driven by a number of factors. Increasingly, people are frustrated by delays in getting assessed for government-funded packages and delays in funding actually coming through.

Currently, there are 120,000 people on the waiting list for a home care package. Even after you have been assessed many people have to wait nine to twelve months before they start accessing services.

There are also concerns about higher co-contributions that some people now need to pay for services.

Under changes introduced by the Federal Government, those who don’t qualify for a commonwealth health care card are required to make an 80 per cent contribution towards everyday living services.

Towards personal care services they are required to make a 50 per cent contribution. Many private aged care providers reported an uptick in inquiries when these changes were announced.

The pros and cons of private in-home care

Contrary to popular belief, private aged care isn’t just for those who require around-the-clock care.
A key benefit is that if your care needs change, you can be instantly assessed and receive care straightaway. However, under the support at home system if you require a reassessment this can take time.

However, private aged care services don’t come cheap. Two to four hours care a week can set you back $400 to $500. If you have high care needs the cost can be substantially greater. This means that it is certainly not a solution for everyone.

As more Australians choose to remain at home for longer, demand for aged care services delivered in the community is continuing to grow. This is creating increased opportunities for support workers, personal care assistants and other aged care professionals. However, with demand rising, competition for roles can also increase, making it important for jobseekers to present their skills and experience clearly when applying.

Are you looking for a new career? Aged Care Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer various services including our resume writing service and cover letter writing service.

Article References

Aged Care Online (21 August 2025) ‘Why More Seniors Are Choosing Home Care Over Residential Care’, Aged Care Online, accessed 27 March 2026.

Bowes, M (24 March 2026) ‘‘Darling, I’m not going anywhere’: The rise of at-home care’, Financial Review, accessed 27 March 2026.