Settling into a home
Moving into care means getting used to a new room, different people and unfamiliar routines. Ask the home what personal belongings you can bring, how meals and activities work, and who to speak to about day-to-day questions. Sharing preferences early helps staff understand what feels familiar and important to you.
Discuss arrangements for appointments, medicines and keeping in contact with the people involved in your care. Keep a copy of the agreement and ask for an explanation of anything you do not understand before signing.
Sources: My Aged Care — moving into an aged care home and the resident agreement.
Choice, rights and respect
Living in a home does not remove your right to make decisions about your life. The Statement of Rights covers choice, dignity, privacy, safe care and connection with the people and communities that matter to you. Providers should support you to express preferences and understand your options.
You can raise a concern about your care and seek help from an independent advocate. Ask how the home's complaints process works and who will respond. Our residents' rights guide explains the subject in more detail.
Source: Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission — Statement of Rights.
Staying connected
Family, friendships and community remain part of life in care. Talk with the home about visits, outings and ways to stay in touch. Share the resident's preferences, including cultural, language and spiritual needs.
Our guide to visiting a parent offers a starting point for planning contact. The routine should be shaped around the person, rather than treating visits as a fixed quota.
Source: My Aged Care — family, friends and life in a home.
Respite and changes in care
Residential respite is a temporary stay that supports a person and their usual carer. It is different from taking a permanent place. Check the proposed dates, availability and fees with the home; an assessment approval alone does not guarantee a bed.
As circumstances change, use the guides on respite, veterans' support and the NDIS and aged care to prepare questions for the relevant service. For families facing a bereavement, there is also a guide to what happens when someone dies in care.
Source: My Aged Care — residential respite.
Common questions
Can I bring things from home?
Homes generally provide essential furniture, but you may be able to bring small personal items. Ask the home about its space and safety guidelines before moving.
Can family and friends still visit?
Staying connected is part of life in care. Ask the home about arrangements for visits and outings, and discuss what works for the resident.
Can I get help to raise a concern?
Yes. You can seek support from someone you choose or an independent advocate. Ask for the home's complaints process in a form you can understand.
