For most families, aged care isn’t something they think about until a health issue or unexpected event forces them to make decisions quickly.
Unfortunately, that’s often the worst time to start planning.
Over the years, I’ve helped many individuals and families throughout Geelong and the Greater Geelong region navigate the financial side of aged care. One thing I’ve learnt is that the earlier you understand your options, the more choices you’ll usually have.
Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping an ageing parent, knowing how the aged care system works can make the process far less stressful.
Staying at Home for Longer
Most Australians would prefer to remain in their own home for as long as possible.
Government-funded home care services can help make that possible by providing support with everyday tasks such as cleaning, shopping, meal preparation, personal care, transport, nursing and allied health services.
The level of support available depends on your individual circumstances and care needs.
The first step is usually registering with My Aged Care, where you’ll be assessed to determine the type of assistance you’re eligible to receive.
Because waiting periods can apply, it’s often worth beginning the process before care becomes urgently needed.
Understanding Home Care Costs
Many people are surprised to learn that government assistance doesn’t always mean care is completely free.
Depending on your financial circumstances, you may be asked to contribute towards the cost of your care.
Exactly how much you’ll pay depends on your income, assets, the type of care you receive and the provider you choose.
Understanding these costs early can help avoid unexpected surprises later.
When Residential Aged Care Becomes the Right Choice
Sometimes remaining at home simply isn’t practical or safe.
Residential aged care provides 24-hour support for people who require ongoing assistance with daily living or medical care.
Moving into residential care is a significant life decision—not only emotionally, but financially as well.
One of the biggest questions families ask is: “How are we going to pay for it?”
Understanding Aged Care Accommodation Costs
Residential aged care fees can be confusing because there are several different costs involved.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be required to pay a basic daily care fee, a means-tested care fee and accommodation costs.
Accommodation payments can often be made as a lump sum known as a Refundable Accommodation Deposit, as daily payments called a Daily Accommodation Payment, or as a combination of both.
Choosing the right option can have a significant impact on your cash flow, estate planning and ongoing retirement income.
Should You Sell the Family Home?
This is one of the biggest financial decisions many families ever face.
There isn’t a single answer that’s right for everyone.
Some people choose to sell their home and use part of the proceeds to pay a Refundable Accommodation Deposit.
Others prefer to keep the property and rent it out.
Each option has advantages and potential drawbacks.
Your decision can affect your Age Pension entitlement, Centrelink assessments, ongoing income, estate planning outcomes and the inheritance you leave your family.
These decisions are often difficult to reverse, so it’s important to understand the long-term implications before proceeding.
Don’t Forget the Age Pension Rules
Many people don’t realise that what happens to the family home can influence Age Pension eligibility.
Depending on whether you sell the property, rent it out or keep it vacant, different Centrelink asset and income assessment rules may apply.
Understanding these rules before making decisions can help avoid unintended consequences.
Short-Term Care Is Also Available
Not everyone entering the aged care system requires permanent residential care.
Government-funded support is also available for shorter periods, including recovery after a hospital stay, respite care to give family carers a break, and short-term restorative care designed to help people regain independence after illness or injury.
These services can often delay or even prevent the need for permanent residential care.
Why Financial Advice Matters
Aged care isn’t just about choosing the right facility.
It’s about coordinating your finances, superannuation, investments, Centrelink entitlements, tax position and estate planning so they continue to work together.
The right advice can help you understand how much aged care is likely to cost, whether selling the family home is appropriate, how to structure accommodation payments and the effect on your Age Pension.
Planning ahead often provides more flexibility and greater peace of mind for both you and your family.
Need Help Planning for Aged Care?
If you or a family member are beginning to think about aged care, now is the ideal time to understand your options.
As a financial adviser based in Newtown, I work with individuals and families throughout Geelong and the Greater Geelong region to help them navigate aged care funding, Centrelink, Age Pension entitlements, retirement planning and estate planning.
A little planning today can make difficult decisions much easier tomorrow.