What happens during an assessment?
An aged care assessment is arranged through My Aged Care and is usually completed by a trained health professional, such as a nurse, social worker or other assessor.
During the assessment, the assessor will talk with you about how you are managing day to day, including your health, mobility, safety at home, and any support you already receive. The assessment is a conversation, not a test, and is designed to understand what support would help you live safely and independently at home.
Based on your assessed needs, the assessor will determine whether you are eligible for support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) or the Support at Home program (SaH). You may also be asked whether you would like approvals for other services, such as residential respite care, if needed in the future.
In some situations, if living at home is no longer safe or suitable, the assessment can also help determine your eligibility for care in a residential aged care facility.
Can I have someone with me during the assessment?
Yes. It’s a good idea to have someone you trust with you during the assessment. This could be a friend, family member, partner, carer or advocate.
If you would like support from an independent advocate, you can contact the National Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600.