7 key benefits of the new Support at Home Program you need to know

Support at Home brings with it major aged-care updates.

The Federal Government has created the new Support at Home Program to better meet the needs and expectations of older Australians accessing the aged-care system. Here are seven key benefits that this program will deliver and how integratedliving can help you make the most of these changes:

1. Rights-based approach
   The new Support at Home Program emphasises a rights-based approach, ensuring older people have a clear statement of rights. These include the right to make their own decisions, stay connected and to take risks. This cultural shift requires training for providers and their workforce to uphold these rights effectively. 
   
   
2. Higher levels of care
   The program introduces eight levels of support, allowing older people to maintain their independence and stay at home longer. The different levels will help to ensure a more tailored and appropriate care than the current four-level system.
   
   
3. Restorative and Palliative Care Pathways
   There are two new short-term pathways. These are the restorative pathway and the end-of-life care pathway. They provide targeted support for those recovering from hospital stays or requiring end-of-life care. These pathways ensure that clients receive the necessary resources and support during critical times.
   
   
4. No Worse Off Principle
   The government has incorporated a 'no worse off' principle into the program. The aim of this principle is to ensure that if you were receiving or first approved for a Home Care Package on or before 12 September 2024, you won’t pay more because of the move to Support at Home, your fees will be the same or lower.
   
   Here’s what it means for you:
   • When you transition to Support at Home on 1 November 2025, you will maintain the same level of funding you currently have and any unspent funds will be retained.
   • If you received a Home Care Package or were assessed as eligible for a package as at 12 September 2024, your contributions will remain the same or be lower than what you would have paid under the Home Care Packages program.
     
     
5. Assistive Technology and Home Modifications
   The program emphasises the importance of Assistive Technology and Home Modifications, with up to $15,000 allocated for these needs. This ensures that older people can make necessary adjustments to their homes to enhance safety and accessibility in a timely manner.
   
   
6. Reduced wait times
   The government is committed to reducing wait times for care, aiming for a maximum wait time of three months by July 2027 for those eligible for the program. This will be a significant improvement on previous wait times, which have been up to a year or more.
   
   
7. Here to help
   integratedliving's expert team has been preparing for this transition. We're here to support you and your loved ones through to a better aged-care experience. You can call our experienced team on 1300 782 896 and they'll be happy to answer any queries you have.

integratedliving is committed to helping you navigate these changes and make the most of the new Support at Home Program. With our team's expertise and dedication to quality care, we aim to ensure that you and your loved ones receive the best possible Support at Home.