The Department of Health and Ageing can provide you with an information pack called the "5 Steps to Entry into Residential Aged Care".
This booklet has been developed to better assist you in understanding what residential aged care is, why you might need it and how to go about arranging it.
The Dept of Health and Ageing can be contacted on the Aged Care Information Line 1800 500 853 or you can download this booklet from the website www.health.gov.au
Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) is a team of health professionals who following a Dr's referral, will visit the client at home or in hospital to assess the level of care required.
You will not be eligible to enter a residential aged care facility permanently until such time that you have been approved as eligible following an ACAT assessment.
An ACAT assessment can approve your eligibility for Residential Aged Care (both permanent and respite) and Community Care packages.
Low Care: Low level care facilities generally provide accommodation and personal care, such as help with dressing and showering, together with occasional nursing care.
High Care: High level care facilities care for people with a greater degree of frailty, which often need continuous nursing care.