As we age, it’s natural for our needs, and the kind of support we require, to evolve. For some, this may mean bringing more help into the home; for others, it could involve considering a move to a retirement village or residential aged care accommodation. Understanding the different pathways and how they interconnect is an important part of planning for this next stage of life.
- Staying at Home – With Support
Many people wish to remain in their own home for as long as possible, surrounded by familiar comforts and community connections. This is where in-home care comes in. Through either government-funded Support at Home, or privately funded services, individuals can receive help with daily activities such as cleaning, cooking, transport, and personal care.
In-home care can be tailored to suit changing needs – from a few hours a week to more comprehensive support as time goes on. - Retirement Living – Independence With Connection
For those who value independence but would like the reassurance of nearby support, retirement villages offer a middle ground. These communities are designed to help older Australians enjoy an active lifestyle while providing access to shared facilities, social activities, and sometimes low-level care or emergency assistance.
It’s important to understand that retirement villages are not the same as aged care homes – they are primarily lifestyle-focused, with residents often living independently and paying separate fees for any additional care services they require. - Residential Aged Care – When Greater Support Is Needed
Residential aged care (nursing home accommodation) provides ongoing care for those who can no longer safely live at home. Entry into residential care isn’t automatic – it requires an aged care needs assessment (often referred to as an ACAT) to confirm that a person’s needs meet the eligibility criteria for higher levels of care.
At present, there is a significant backlog of these assessments across Australia, and availability of residential accommodation is not meeting current demand. This shortage has been a growing concern for both families and care providers. In response, the Federal Government is introducing new funding arrangements effective 1 November, aimed at improving access, equity, and sustainability within the aged care system.
While these reforms are designed to strengthen the sector, navigating the changes – and understanding what they mean for your personal circumstances – can be complex.
How We Can Help
At HPH Solutions, we have an aged care adviser on our team, Emma Cork, who works closely with clients and their families to help them understand the financial implications, eligibility processes, and funding options available for different forms of care. Your dedicated adviser can connect you with Emma for personalised support and guidance.
In addition, Emma works in close partnership with an Aged Care Placement specialist who has been assisting many of our clients with accommodation planning and placement – helping them and their families find the right care setting and manage the transition with confidence and compassion.
If you or someone you love is beginning to think about needing more support, we encourage you to get in touch with your adviser here at HPH. Together, we can help you plan with clarity and care – so that comfort, dignity, and peace of mind are all part of your later years.