7 Steps: Applying for My Aged Care
- 6 min read
A Quick Snapshot
The process is simple:
1. Check eligibility
2. Talk to My Guardian first
3. Apply for an assessment
4. Have your assessment
5. Understand your outcome
6. Choose a provider
7. Start your support
You don't have to know all about Aged Care before you ask for help.
If things are getting a little more difficult at home, you may be wondering how My Aged Care and Support at Home might help. Am I eligible? How do I apply? What will I receive? What will it cost? And who will provide the help?
For more than 11 years, My Guardian has helped thousands of Australians get through the government aged care processes.
We can help you prepare for your My Aged Care assessment and, when you’re ready, (if you like) join you on a three-way call with My Aged Care.
Depending on your needs and circumstances, My Aged Care may help you access:
Here's how the process works.
Check whether you may be eligible
Generally, you may be eligible if you’re 65 or older and need help with things you can no longer manage as easily yourself. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the age is generally 50 or older.
You don’t need to work out exactly what support you need. Just think about what’s becoming harder and how it’s affecting your everyday life.
Talk to My Guardian first
Things to reflect on:
- What has changed recently?
- What can you still manage?
- What are you relying on others to do?
- What would you like to keep doing for yourself?
We’ll help you prepare.
Apply for a My Aged Care assessment
You don’t actually apply for a “package”. You apply to My Aged Care for an assessment. The Australian Government uses this assessment to determine what aged care support you may be eligible for.
My Aged Care makes the decisions about your eligibility and government funding. Our role is to help you work through the process.
Have your My Aged Care assessment
Your assessment looks at your circumstances, needs and goals.
It’s not an exam. There are no right answers. Be honest about what’s becoming difficult and what you want to keep doing. Can you manage safely at home? What are you relying on others to do? What would make life easier?
And remember, you can have a family member, friend or other supporter involved in your assessment. The more clearly you explain your circumstances, the better your needs can be understood.
Understand your outcome
After your assessment, My Aged Care will tell you whether you’re eligible for support and, if so, what level of Support at Home you’ve been approved for.
You’ll receive information about your support plan, funding and any contributions that may apply.
If you’re unsure what your outcome means, My Guardian can help explain it.
Choose your Support at Home provider
Don’t just ask what services they offer. Also ask:
- How quickly can support start?
- Who will coordinate my care?
- Who do I contact if something isn’t working?
- What will I have to pay?
- What happens if my needs change?
And perhaps the most important question: “What will dealing with you actually be like?” You’re choosing an organisation that may become an important part of your life at home. The relationship matters.
Start your support
Once you’ve chosen a provider, your approved support can be put into practice.
Your needs may change over time, so your support may need to change too. If your circumstances change, there are processes for reviewing your needs and support.
Support should fit your life, not the other way around.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I go for an assessment?
Most My Aged Care assessments take place in your own home, although they may also be conducted by telephone, telehealth or at another suitable location, depending on your circumstances. You don’t normally need to travel to an assessment centre.
How long does it take?
The assessment itself is usually a conversation about your needs, health, daily activities and circumstances. The time can vary depending on your situation. My Aged Care will arrange the assessment with you and let you know what to expect.
What documentation do I need?
Have your Medicare card and another form of identification available. It is also useful to have details of your GP and other health professionals, relevant medical information and a list of the support you currently receive.
Should my doctor be involved?
Your doctor doesn’t normally need to be present for your My Aged Care assessment. However, information from your GP or other health professionals can help provide a clearer picture of your health and support needs. Have their contact details and relevant medical information available.
Table of Contents
Explore related topics
You’ve been assessed. You’ve received your letter confirming your Support at Home funding.
Aged Care fees can feel complicated, especially when you’re trying to understand.
Get Support!
Whether you’re ready to start experiencing quality care or just want to learn more about our services, our friendly support team is here to help. Send us a message by filling in the form, or call us anytime on.
