What does aged care involve

Because older Australians have given the world so much of their time, knowledge, and experience, we owe it to them to provide them with the care that they deserve when they get older and their level of dependence increases.

This extends to any physical requirements such as personal care and transporting them to doctor’s appointments or other obligations. It also involves mental, spiritual and emotional support. Older people may become sad or depressed when they find themselves in the position of relinquishing some or all of their independence. This is often exacerbated by the onset of illnesses or diseases like dementia.

Whether you hope to care for your loved one yourself or are exploring the possibility of placing them in a home, it is important to understand what aged care entails.

Physical Assistance

Depending on the level of care required, older people may need help with personal grooming tasks such as showering or bathing, getting dressed and going to the bathroom.

Household chores such as cleaning and cooking are also provided in aged care.

Subject to their level of dependence, assistance may be required if the client is using a wheelchair or other form of mobility aid.

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Emotional Assistance

Depending on the circumstances, this may be a difficult time for the older person who are used to living on their own and being self-sufficient. Because of this, they may have negative feelings about these changes in their life.

While physical care is important, offering emotional support is an essential part of providing aged care. This is because carers tend to become companions and develop close relationships with their residents.

Mental Stimulation

It is imperative that older people, whether in a care facility or at home, are given enough mental and creative stimulation.

Carers should look into providing activities or exercises that will keep their minds sharp. This includes crafts, puzzles, and word games.

Not only will this help their cognitive abilities, but it will also give them a chance to have fun and enjoy themselves. If they are living in an aged care facility, they will also be able to interact and socialise with other residents.

Providing a Safe Environment

This is especially important for people living with dementia and those with limited or aided mobility. It includes removing potential accident risks and making sure that they can move around easily.

These are some of the responsibilities required from the carer or aged care centre, but the older person themselves also need to complete some steps before entering an aged care facility.

Firstly, they need to undergo an assessment undertaken by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). They would then need to obtain certain documents and application forms depending on the centre that they are applying at.

Costs Involved

Instead of paying for care at home, older people could opt to enter full-time residential care, such as provided by Christadelphian Aged Care. Here, residents will have access to 24-hour support provided by trained professionals.

Aged care costs will vary depending on the type of care needed as well as which facility is chosen. Potential residents may have to pay for care and accommodation costs as well as any extra services that they may desire.

The Australian government may also subsidise some or all of these costs depending on the financial situation of the individual.

If you are unsure about our processes or requirements, please give us a call, and we will gladly assist.

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