Choosing the best Aged Care option for yourself or a loved one can be an overwhelming process for families navigating Aged Care for the first time. If you’re considering Aged Care, you probably have a lot of questions, so we thought we’d share some of the questions we hear most at TriCare, and provide answers to help familiarise you with the services, costs, and processes associated with Aged Care.
1. What is Aged Care, and what services are included?
TriCare’s Residential Aged Care is designed for seniors who may require some help with everyday living tasks, whether they need mobility or medical support, or would simply benefit from more general support and regular socialisation. Here At TriCare, our mission is to ensure residents live comfortably and safely, with all their physical, emotional and social needs met. Our Aged Care facilities offer a range of services to cater to the unique needs of each resident, including 24/7 nursing care, nutritious meals, social activities, and specialised care for conditions such as dementia.
2. How do I know if my loved one needs Aged Care services?
Deciding if it’s the right time for Aged Care involves looking at several factors. Aged Care services offer support and peace of mind to residents and their families, and it’s important to find a facility that is welcoming and accessible, and where your loved one feels comfortable. If they’re struggling with daily tasks, experiencing frequent falls, or showing signs of memory loss, it might be time to consider Aged Care to ensure your family member is safe and secure. And if their health conditions require more attention than you’re able to provide at home, Aged Care can offer the necessary support your loved one needs, providing families with much-needed peace of mind.
3. How do I choose the right Aged Care facility for my loved one?
When looking for the right Aged Care facility for your loved one, it’s important to choose the best fit for your loved one , and for your family. We recommend families choose an Aged Care home that is welcoming, has friendly and attentive staff with an adequate staff-to-resident ratio, and check for cleanliness,, We welcome anyone considering Aged Care to come and take a tour of our facilities and get a feel for the environment, community, staff and services available. At TriCare, we pride ourselves on our high standards of care, our engaging community activities, and our dedicated team of professionals who treat residents like family.
4. What is the process for getting into an Aged Care home?
The process of moving into one of our Aged Care Residences starts with an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) via My Aged Care. They will evaluate your loved one’s needs and eligibility to determine the appropriate level of care and financial support. Once the assessment is complete, please Book a FREE Consultation with our Aged Care Specialist Team by calling 1300 874 2273. Our Aged Care Specialist Team will help guide you through every step of the process. The consultation allows us to understand your clinical and financial requirements to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition into the best Aged Care option for your loved one.
5. How much does Aged Care cost, and what are the payment options?
Aged Care costs vary depending on the level of care required and the type of accommodation and extras chosen. Generally, there are daily fees for care services, accommodation payments, and possible additional and/or extra service fees. . TriCare provides transparent pricing and works with families to find a financial solution that works for them. You can read more about our pricing and use our Aged Care cost calculator on our Fees and Charges page.
6. Are there any government subsidies or financial assistance programs for Aged Care?
Yes, the Australian government offers several subsidies and financial assistance programs to help with the cost of Aged Care services. At TriCare, we help you navigate these options and ensure you explore the best permanent Aged Care options available for you or your loved one. You can read more about accessing government assistance here.
7. What is the difference between Retirement Living and Residential Aged Care?
Retirement Living and Residential Aged Care serve different purposes for seniors with different needs. Retirement Living is designed for independent seniors who want to enjoy a community lifestyle without the burden of maintaining their home like garden maintenance. TriCare’s Retirement Living communities offer amenities such as recreational facilities, social activities, 24/7 security plus more. Residential Aged Care provides more intensive support for those who need help with daily living activities, medical care, frequent socialisation and engagement. At TriCare, we’re pleased to offer both options, with several co-location campuses around Queensland which allow for a seamless transition if your loved one’s needs change over time or a couple has different needs
8. How can family members stay involved and informed about their loved one’s care at TriCare?
At TriCare, we believe in keeping families connected and informed about what their loved ones are experiencing in Aged Care. With no restrictions to visiting hours, we encourage regular visits with families but ask that we keep in mind other residents when visiting after-hours. Our staff provides regular updates on your loved one’s wellbeing and care plan. We also host family events and open days, so everyone can stay engaged with the community and see firsthand the high quality of care we provide.
Choosing the right Aged Care option for your loved one is a significant decision for any family. At TriCare, we are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care in a warm, welcoming environment.
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