Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Aged care is full of jargon, acronyms, and myths. We’ve gathered the questions families ask us most often and answered them in clear, simple language.
Getting Started
Do I need an assessment before I can access Government Funded Aged Care Support?
Yes — most government-funded services require an assessment. This is done through the new Single Assessment Service. We can guide you through the process and help you prepare so it feels less overwhelming and ensure you provide the right information.
How long does the assessment process take?
What if I just have a simple question?
That’s what our 15-minute exploratory conversation is for. Book a complimentary call with us, and if it’s something quick, we help you on the spot or for a complex question we can suggest a module from our Aged Care School that can help you.
Costs & Funding
Do I have to sell the family home to pay for a Residential Aged Care room?
What does the government actually cover?
The government helps with the cost of aged care, but most people contribute something. How much depends on your income, assets, and the type of care you receive. We’ll help you understand the balance.
What if I want more than government funding provides?
Many families combine government services with private care or additional services for extra flexibility. We can help you explore both.
Care Options
Should I choose home care, retirement living or residential care?
It depends on your care needs, and personal preferences. We’ll help you weigh up what’s possible at home, when to consider retirement or assisted living, and when residential care may be the appropriate option.
What’s the difference between retirement living, assisted living, and aged care?
- Retirement living is about lifestyle and community, usually without care included.
- Assisted living adds some support services, like meals or cleaning.
- Residential aged care provides 24/7 support for people with higher needs.
Can I change my care if my needs change?
Yes — aged care is designed to be flexible. With our help, you can identify the most appropriate support for your situation, and we can support you in transitioning between different care types.
Common Myths
The government pays for everything.
The Government covers the cost for clinical care. Other costs are shared depending on your financial circumstances. We can help you understand what this means for you.
You have to sell your home straight away.
Rules around the family home are complex, but in many cases, you don’t need to sell immediately. We’ll help you understand what applies in your situation.
It’s too late to get advice.
It’s never too late. Whether you’re planning years ahead or making urgent decisions today, the right guidance can make things clearer and less stressful. We’re here to help
Still have questions?
That’s what we’re here for. Book a 15-minute complimentary conversation and let’s talk it through together.
What Families Say
Making aged care decisions isn’t easy. Here’s what some of the families we’ve supported had to say about their experience with Aged Care Conversations.
Mini Case Stories
At Aged Care Conversations, we believe no family should navigate the complexities of the aged care system alone.
Our mission is to provide clarity, guidance, and support every step of the way, so families can make confident, informed decisions with peace of mind.
From Stress to Clarity
When Margaret’s family contacted us, they were overwhelmed by the options for home care versus moving into residential care. After an exploratory conversation, we created a personalised plan that allowed Margaret to stay safely at home with additional support. Her family now feels confident knowing the plan can adapt as her needs change.
Navigating entry into Residential Aged Care
James needed to move his mother into aged care after a fall, He needed to find a home quickly and was worried about the cost of moving into aged care. We found a suitable home with a vacancy and walked him through the funding rules, explained RADs and DAPs in plain language, and connected him with a trusted financial adviser. The clarity gave James peace of mind — and the confidence to make the decision that was right for him and his mother.
From Hospital to Home
After Frank’s unexpected hospital stay, his daughter contacted us unsure whether he could safely return home. We quickly assessed his needs, explained the support available, and helped arrange home care services. Frank was able to return home with the right supports in place, and his daughter felt reassured knowing she wasn’t navigating the system on her own.
Planning Ahead With Confidence
When Helen and her husband started thinking about their future care needs, they felt overwhelmed by the uncertainty of costs and options. We worked with them to understand how the current aged care system works, what costs they could expect and what plans they needed to put in place to ensure they were prepared when the need arose. With a clear roadmap in place, they now feel confident that they can make decisions without pressure when the time comes.
Why Testimonials Matter
Why Testimonials Matter
Families often tell us that hearing someone else’s story makes them feel less alone. Every situation is unique, but the need for clarity, compassion, and confidence is the same.
Share Your Experience
If we’ve supported you and you’d like to share your story, we’d love to hear from you.
Useful Links
We’ve gathered some of the most trusted resources to help you explore aged care further. These sites provide official information, tools, and support services.
Government Resources
- My Aged Care — The official Australian Government entry point for aged care information and services.
- Department of Health and Aged Care — Updates on reforms, funding, and aged care policy.
- Services Australia — Information on pensions, means testing, and financial support.
Advocacy & Support
- Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) — Free, independent support for older people receiving aged care.
- Carer Gateway — Services and support for carers.
- Dementia Australia — Resources and support for people living with dementia and their families.
Planning Ahead
- MoneySmart — Government financial guidance, including planning for retirement and aged care.
- Advance Care Planning Australia — Tools and resources for documenting care preferences.
Join Us This Week
Bring your questions, your concerns, or just listen in. You’ll leave feeling more confident, more informed, and less alone.