1. Check Eligibility
- The My Aged Care program is for people who are 65 years or older (or 50 years or older if you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person).
- You must also be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen with appropriate visa status.
2. Create an Account
You can start by creating an account on the My Aged Care website:
- Go to the official website: www.myagedcare.gov.au
- Register by providing your details.
3. Contact My Aged Care
- Phone: Call 1800 200 422. This is the main contact number for My Aged Care. You can speak with a representative who will guide you through the process.
- Online: You can also fill out a referral form on the My Aged Care website.
4. Initial Assessment
After contacting My Aged Care, you’ll undergo an initial assessment. A professional assessor (usually a nurse or social worker) will ask you about your care needs and circumstances. This is done over the phone or in person.
- If you’re eligible, you'll be referred for further assessments or services.
5. Comprehensive Assessment
If needed, a comprehensive assessment may be scheduled, which provides more detailed information about the types of care you need (e.g., in-home care, residential care).
6. Choosing Services
Based on the assessment, My Aged Care will provide you with a list of approved service providers. You can choose from this list or ask for assistance in finding services that meet your needs.
7. Access the Services
Once your care plan is set up, services such as home care, respite care, and aged care homes will be available to you.
8. Ongoing Support
My Aged Care will continue to provide support, monitoring, and assistance as you use the services.
For further guidance, check the My Aged Care website or contact their support services directly.
POINT OF NOTE.
The My Aged Care program is designed to support older Australians in accessing essential aged care services, including home care, assistive technology, and residential care. Given the high demand for services, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor early in the process to help get things moving. Your doctor can assist with gathering the necessary medical information and ensure you're on the right track to receiving the support you need.
We recommend doing your due diligence and taking the time to understand your rights and options, especially when it comes to acquiring assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs or personal safety alarms. One of the main benefits of the My Aged Care program is that it allows you to make choices about the devices you need and where to purchase them, without being restricted to specific suppliers.
Keeping this in mind will empower you to make informed decisions and ensure you receive the best care tailored to your needs.
