As people age, many prefer to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes rather than transition to an Aged Care Home. To make this choice feasible, the Australian government provides Home Care Packages.
Home Care Packages are government-subsidized programs aimed at assisting seniors with their daily living needs. These packages are divided into four levels, each providing different levels of funding and support.
In this article, we will explore Level 3 Home Care Packages in detail, including what they include, their value, associated fees, eligibility, and how to apply.
What is Home Care Package Level 3?
A Level 3 Home Care Package offers intermediate-level Home Care to its recipients. Individuals at this level may also be eligible to receive care at an Aged Care Home but would prefer to remain in their own homes instead.
What does a Level 3 include?
At this level, recipients of Level 3 Home Care Packages will receive assistance with day-to-day domestic and social activities. The type of support provided can vary based on individual needs, but some common services include:
- Domestic Tasks: Services such as cleaning, dusting, laundry, and dishes to maintain a clean and safe living environment.
- Household Maintenance: Support with home repairs and maintenance to ensure a safe and comfortable living space.
- Gardening Services: Including lawn mowing, weeding, and maintaining hazard-free garden paths.
- Transport Services: Assistance with transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, or other essential trips.
- Meal Preparation: Help with meal planning and cooking to ensure balanced nutrition.
- Personal Care Services: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and other personal hygiene tasks.
- Nursing Care Services: For those who require medical care and monitoring.
- Memory and/or Behavioral Support: Tailored support for individuals dealing with memory issues or challenging behaviours.
- Medication Management Services: Ensuring medications are taken correctly and on time.
How much is a Level 3 worth?
The annual government subsidy for a Level 3 Home Care Package is $39,311 as of July 2023. However, this subsidy changes annually and is paid directly to the chosen service provider. It’s crucial to consider this subsidy when selecting a provider to understand your potential out-of-pocket expenses.
What fees are associated with a Level 3?
Recipients of Level 3 Home Care Packages may need to pay two types of fees:
- Basic Daily Fee: Some Home Care providers charge a basic daily fee, which can vary. As of September 2023, the basic daily fee for Level 3 is $12.20 per day. However, not all providers charge this fee.
- Income-Tested Care Fee: This fee is determined through an income assessment and varies based on income levels. Pensioners and those with an income below $32,331 per year are exempt from this fee. As of September 2023, the income-tested fee ranges from $17.97 to $35.95 per day.
Additionally, Home Care providers may charge additional fees for specific services, so it’s essential to inquire about a complete breakdown of fees when choosing a provider.
How do I apply for a Level 3 Home Care Package?
To apply for a Level 3 Home Care Package, individuals can use the My Aged Care portal or contact them at 1800 200 422. Once the application is submitted, My Aged Care will arrange for an assessor to visit the applicant’s home to evaluate their care needs. This assessment helps determine the appropriate level of care and the services required.
Who is eligible for a Level 3?
Australian residents aged 65 and above who require assistance with tasks at home may be eligible for a Home Care Package. Additionally, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander individuals become eligible for a Level 3 Home Care Package at 50 years old.
The Bottom Line
Level 3 Home Care Packages offer intermediate-level support to seniors who wish to remain in their own homes while receiving personalized care. These packages cover a range of services to cater to individual needs and provide valuable government subsidies to help with the costs.
Understanding the fees associated with a Level 3 package and the application process is crucial for those considering this option to ensure they receive the care they require while maintaining their independence.
