What is private home care?
Many elderly Australians secure the healthcare support they need through government subsidies from a Home Care Package (HCP) or the Commonwealth Home Support Programme.
However, some older individuals require additional aged care services.
Home Care Package funds enable you to avoid the life changes and transitions involved in moving to a residential care facility. With an HCP, you can live in your own home, follow your schedule and enjoy independence as you age.
You may not qualify for subsidies due to your income or specific health needs, yet still desire additional assistance at home. Alternatively, you might be eligible for a subsidy but face a waiting period for the approved Home Care Package you are set to receive.
In those cases, you might opt to purchase private home care instead of (or in addition to) government-funded care.
Private in-home care is home health support that you pay for privately out of your own income. You can choose any private home care provider, including government-approved providers, private charities or uncertified individual agencies. You have the autonomy to choose exactly the services you want, with no need for approval and no waiting period.
However, it’s important to note that you are responsible for covering the entire cost of the in-home care services.