If you, or someone you care for, is starting to explore support at home options, the first step is an aged care assessment. This free assessment is how My Aged Care decides what level of help you’re eligible for through the new Support at Home program.
Many people feel nervous before their assessment, but it’s really just a friendly conversation about your day-to-day life and what would make things a little easier. Here’s what to expect, how to prepare, and a few ways to make the process simpler.
Understanding the Aged Care Assessment
To receive a Home Care Package, you’ll need what’s called an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment (in Victoria, it’s known as ACAS). This is organised through My Aged Care.
An ACAT assessor is a trained health or community professional who will meet with you to understand your situation. The goal is to make sure you receive the right level of support to stay safe, comfortable and independent at home.
What to expect during your assessment
An assessor will arrange a time to visit you at home, or in some cases, speak with you by phone or online video. You’re welcome to have a family member, friend or support person with you.
They’ll ask questions about things like:
- how you manage daily activities such as cooking, cleaning and showering.
- your health, mobility and any medical conditions.
- your safety at home, including whether you’ve had any falls or close calls.
- what kind of support or equipment might make life easier for you.
The assessment is not a test or inspection. It’s a genuine conversation about how you’re managing and what kind of support would help you live well at home.
You can read more about what happens during an assessment on the My Aged Care website.
How to prepare for your assessment
A little preparation can make a big difference. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Make a list of what’s becoming difficult
Think about the tasks that take more effort than they used to – things like vacuuming, cooking, showering, or managing medications. Writing them down helps you remember everything when you’re speaking with the assessor.
2. Be honest about your needs
It’s common to downplay things, but being honest and open ensures you get the right level of support. The goal is to make life easier and safer, not to take away your independence.
3. Have your information ready
You’ll need your Medicare card, your GP’s details, and a list of medications or medical conditions. Having these ready helps the process go smoothly.
4. Think about what matters most to you
Would you like help with housework, meals, or personal care? Or are you looking for social support or transport to appointments? Knowing your priorities helps shape your care plan.
5. Have someone with you
It can be comforting to have a trusted person there — they might remember details you forget or help you feel more relaxed during the conversation.
After Your Aged Care Assessment
Once your assessment is complete, the assessor will make a recommendation, and you’ll receive a letter explaining what you’re eligible for, including which level of Support at Home you’ve been approved for.
There may be a short wait before your funding becomes available, but you can choose a provider such as For Care in the meantime, so you’re ready to begin as soon as your package is assigned.
We can help you understand your assessment results, explain what happens next, and prepare everything so your services can start without delay once your funding comes through.
Need help getting started?
If you haven’t had your aged care assessment yet, we can help you feel confident and ready. Our friendly team can explain what to expect, help you register with My Aged Care, and guide you through every step of the process.
Get in touch with us today. We’re here to make it easier to get the support you need to live independently and comfortably at home.
