There has been a noticeable increase in the number of people waiting for Home Care Packages. There are currently 68,000 older Australians waiting for a Home Care Package, more than double the 28,666 that were waiting at this time last year. The government concedes it is becoming harder to access the scheme.
So what is behind this trend and what can be done about it?
What is a Home Care Package?
A Home Care Package is a vital resource, enabling older Australians to access essential services in the comfort of their own home, rather than relying on residential aged care.
These services can include nursing, food preparation, assistance with personal hygiene and cleaning.
There are four different levels of packages available, based on the level of care a person requires.
Level one provides up to $10,000 a year for basic needs, such as allied health, transport and social support, with limited assistance for housework and meals. Level Two packages are designed for people with low levels of care needs, while level three packages are designed for people with intermediate care needs. Level four packages are designed for people with high care needs and can provide up to $60,000 a year. They provide personal, social and health support for people with complex health, personal and social needs.
It can take nine to twelve months to receive a level three package, compared to six to nine months last year. Level four packages are currently experiencing a wait of six to nine months compared to one to three months last year. To be eligible for a Home Care Package you must undertake an aged care assessment. Home Care Packages are also means-tested
Why is the demand for Home Care Packages increasing?
Australia has a population that is ageing rapidly. In the 1970s, 8 percent of the population was aged over 65. By 2026, this will be 22 percent. Older people’s preference to receive care at home is also driving this increase. Statistics show that most older Australians choose to receive care in their home. More than one million Australians have care in their own home compared to 250,000 in residential aged care.
What are the consequences of long waits?
The extensive wait for Home Care Packages has serious consequences for some older Australians. If people have to wait too long for their Home Care Package, this increases the chance they will end up in residential aged care. In 2020-21, 11,000 people entered residential aged care while waiting for a Home Care Package. In the same period, 8,000 people died while waiting for a Home Care Package. It can also place increased strain on family and friends who may have to provide additional care while they wait. In addition, the long wait time can result in deteriorating health and increased hospital admissions.
What is the government’s response?
The Federal Government says it is committed to addressing this issue. Earlier this year, they announced the provision of an additional 24,100 Home Care Packages by 2024/25, with the goal of reducing wait times for all home care packages to six months.
Home Care Packages help to alleviate stress on the aged care system, while providing the flexibility and choice older Australians desire. Therefore, it is essential that they are available to all those that need them, in a timely manner.
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References
Borys, S (12 June 2024) ‘The number of older Australians waiting for a home care package has increased to over 68,000’, ABC News, accessed 10 September 2024.
Swerissen, H (7 June 2024) ‘Too many Australians are waiting for a home care package. Here’s how to fix the delays’, The Conversation, accessed 10 September 2024.