Only a few days have passed since the Support at Home program was officially launched by the Australian Government. Reforms recommended by the Royal Commission for aged care are welcomed as they aim to enhance care for older Australians. Aside from delivering high-quality and consistent care, older Australians are given more options on how they want to live.
With change comes questions and a bit of confusion. Participants and their families, as well as providers, need to take note of the reforms that can affect them. For starters, the fee structure has changed, but this is to allow funds to go towards services instead of administrative costs. Self-funded retirees will contribute more, while full pensioners will pay little. Meanwhile, speech therapy, exercise programs, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and other clinical services will continue to be free.
The focus of the reforms is to support older Australians to continue being independent, be more able and capable in their own homes. Read more about this topic at catholicweekly.com.au