When it comes time for a move into residential care, choosing the right service can be a difficult, but important, decision. While choosing carefully is the key to a good experience, many people struggle to know where to start.
Your decision will include many factors, but start by making the same sort of decisions that you would for any property decision. This includes:
- Choose the location
- Think about what feels like home and what sort of amenities you want access to
- Check if the price is affordable
- Get advice on how to structure finances to pay.
Choose the location
Location is always the first decision. This might be based on easy access to services or who you want to be close to. For example, you may want to stay in the same area so you can continue with the same doctor, hairdresser, church group and friends. Or perhaps you would prefer to move closer to family so they can visit more often.
You might be able to start with local knowledge and ask friends for recommendations or do a simple internet search for “residential aged care in [area name]”. The government’s MyAgedCare website) also has a search function to start you off.
What feels like home
Some services are newer, some are older. The style of building and available services can also vary. Think about what makes you comfortable. A newer facility might look nice, but you might prefer a service that is smaller or has a more homely feel.
If you have always lived in a house, you may now be comfortable in a multistorey building or perhaps you prefer one that has great gardens and lots of open space. Think about what makes you happiest.
Remember this will be your new home, so when you take a tour, watch how staff and residents interact with each other. Ask lots of questions about staff ratios and roles. Look for signs that indicate the staff aim to make it feel like home, such as personal items on display. Request to look at the activity schedule and ask questions about how social interaction is encouraged. You should also ask about additional lifestyle services and choices you might have about things like entertainment programs and meals.
Check affordability
Room prices can range up to $2 million. You will need to make a choice that fits your price range – and this might need compromises. If the price looks high, you might choose to pay a daily fee to “rent” the room instead. You don’t have to hand over a large lump sum but this might make good financial sense.
Get independent financial advice
Independent financial advice from an Accredited Aged Care Professional can help you to decide what you can afford and show you some tricks to make what seems unaffordable more affordable. We have the expertise to help you make an informed decision. Call us on 1300 451 339 for help today.
