Residential aged care
What’s the cost to enter a Baptcare aged care home?
All residents pay at the very minimum a daily fee called a ‘basic care fee’. This fee is set by the government and is currently around 84% of the aged care pension. Other fees and charges may apply and these depend entirely on a prospective resident’s assets. Further information regarding fees and charges can be sought from the Department of Health and Ageing on 1800 500 853 or www.health.gov.au.
What types of services are offered at a Baptcare aged care home?
Services at our aged care homes generally include everything that a person who is very frail may need to maintain their independence at the highest level they can. In order to be able to do this, Baptcare provides 24 hour nursing care in all of its aged care homes. Assistance is offered from the most basic supervision right through to the full provision of expert intensive care for every aspect of daily living. In addition to nursing care, in certain circumstances other paramedical services like physiotherapy are provided as needed. In some situations this kind of care is part of the regular provision, in others it can be arranged but is at the expense of the resident. All of Baptcare’s aged care homes offer social activities and these are arranged for each resident based entirely on what they may need and want.
Who is eligible for residential aged care?
Prospective residents must be assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Service. If the prospective resident is eligible for either high or low level residential aged care, the prospective resident or a member of their family is able to make contact with the aged care home that they think may suit their needs.
How long are Baptcare’s residential aged care waiting lists?
Waiting lists vary for each region. Admission into an aged care home is based primarily on need. The higher the need, the more likely a person will enter an aged care home as a priority. The Director of Nursing determines which prospective residents enter a Baptcare aged care home. Many factors are considered in this process such as: degree of need; a prospective resident’s readiness to enter an aged care home; and, the capacity of the staff to provide the kind of care needed to the prospective resident.
Can I have a tour of the Baptcare aged care home I’m interested in?
Yes. We welcome potential residents and families to view our aged care homes, although not all aged care homes have regular tours. Every Baptcare residential aged care home operates this service in a slightly different format. Some schedule monthly or fortnightly tours. It’s best to contact the Baptcare residential aged care home you’re interested in to discuss this opportunity.
How often do I have to contact the facility regarding my application?
Once an application is made, the respective administration at the aged care home will contact you. Prospective residents and their families are also welcome to ask for an update on their application.
What do I need to bring with me when I enter a Baptcare residential aged care home?
Very little, usually items to personalise a small room.
Are pets allowed?
Sometimes yes, with a trial period may have to be implemented. Generally pets will be considered and the individual circumstances will be taken into account
Are people reluctant to go into residential care?
Naturally, individuals feel most comfortable in their own home and the idea of entering a residential aged care home can be daunting. It can take a little time to adjust to a new homelike environment and in time, those feelings of anxiety often disappear. We receive plenty of positive feedback from our residents who are thrilled with the exceptional care standards, dedicated staff and social activity groups on offer at Baptcare.
In-home and centre-based aged care
What are the differences between low level and high level care at home?
The main difference between low and high level care is the level of support available to the recipient. For example, someone receiving high level care will have access to support associated with Dementia care. Each option is tailored to suit the needs of the recipient.
How do I arrange an Aged Care Assessment?
Referrals for an aged care assessment can be made by anyone. There are Aged Care Assessment Services (ACAS) all over Australia that are based in hospitals or in the local community. Information about the ACAS closest to you is available from Commonwealth Carelink Centres on 1800 052 222. You may wish to see your own doctor first and they will also be able to put you in contact with your local ACAS.
Do I have to get an ACAS assessment done to receive help with my care at home?
To be eligible to receive a care package such as a Community Aged Care Package or Extended Aged Care at Home package you must be assessed by ACAS. Alternative assistance at home can be arranged through the Home And Community Care (HACC) services without an ACAS assessment.
How long will my ACAS assessment last?
Your assessment remains valid for 12 months, unless the ACAS specifies a shorter time. If your care needs change significantly and the services you are receiving can no longer meet your needs, another assessment via ACAS may be requested.
What sorts of things do the ACAS team assess? What questions do they ask?
Someone from the team (eg a nurse or an occupational therapist) will talk to you about how well you are coping in your day-to-day life, things that are easy for you to do, and things that are not as easy as they used to be. For example, they will ask about how easy it is for you to have a shower, put on your shoes or to cook a meal. They will also ask about your health.
General questions
What forms might I need to fill out when entering aged care?