There are four home care package levels with different government funding amounts and expected care hours. This guide covers all the details!
Continue readingHome Care Package levels explained
The role of home care in supporting mental health and ageing
More older Australians are choosing to remain in their homes for as long as possible, valuing the comfort, independence, and familiarity that home provides. Home care services have become an essential part of this, offering not only physical assistance but also support for mental wellbeing. By recognising the unique mental health challenges faced by older adults and integrating comprehensive supports into home care, we can create a supportive environment that promotes overall wellbeing and happiness for our seniors.
Understanding the challenges of ageing
Understanding the challenges of ageing is crucial for providing effective support to our older population. As we age, there are a variety of challenges that can impact our quality of life. Physically, ageing often brings a decline in mobility, strength, and overall health, making daily tasks more difficult. Emotionally, many older adults experience loneliness and isolation, especially when living alone, or following the loss of a close friend or family member. Cognitive challenges, such as memory loss and decreased mental agility, can also become more pronounced with age. Alongside the physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges we face as we age, there may also be changes in your financial situation, adjusting to retirement, and dealing with the loss of independence.
By understanding these challenges, we can develop better strategies and services to support older adults, helping to maintain dignity, independence, and overall wellbeing long term.
How home care supports mental health
Home care providers are uniquely positioned to deliver comprehensive care that encompasses both physical and mental health needs. Regular visits from care workers can provide much-needed companionship, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. These visits also allow for consistent mental health check-ins, helping to identify and address any emerging issues promptly.
Home care can support mental health through:
- Personalised attention: Home care allows for one-on-one support, tailored to your specific needs. This personalised attention can help reduce feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of companionship.
- Maintaining routine: Having a regular routine can significantly improve mental health. Home care services help you maintain daily activities, ensuring that you stay engaged and active.
- Emotional support: Caregivers can offer emotional support, helping you cope with any feelings of anxiety or depression. Having someone to talk to can make a world of difference.
- Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind is essential. Caregivers can assist with puzzles, reading, and other cognitive activities to keep your brain active and healthy.
- Stress reduction: Managing daily tasks can be stressful, especially if you have health or mobility issues. Home care services take on these responsibilities, reducing your stress and allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
The benefits of home care
Home care offers numerous advantages that can enhance the lives of older adults. These services are designed to provide personalised support that meets the unique needs of each individual, helping to maintain independence, stay connected to the community, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Here are some key benefits of home care:
- Independence and dignity: Home care helps you maintain your independence and dignity, allowing you to live life on your terms.
- Familiar surroundings: Staying in your own home reduces stress and anxiety associated with moving to a new environment.
- Improved quality of life: With the right support, you can enjoy a better quality of life, engaging in activities you love and staying connected with your community.
- Cost-effectiveness: Home care can often be more cost-effective than institutional care, making it a practical choice for many families.
Understanding the benefits of home care is the first step towards making an informed decision. The next step is choosing the right home care option that best fits your needs and preferences.
Choosing the right home care option
Selecting the right home care option is crucial. With various options available, it’s important to find a solution that meets your unique needs and preferences. Here are a few options to consider:
- Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP): This programme offers entry-level support services like housekeeping, meal preparation, personal care, and social activities, helping you live independently at home.
- Home Care Package (HCP): Tailored to meet individual needs, HCPs cover daily activities, healthcare services, and social support, providing comprehensive care that helps you maintain your independence.
- Living with a family member: If you prefer a more familiar environment, living with a family member can be a supportive option. It allows you to stay close to loved ones while receiving the care you need.
- Live-in care: For those requiring intensive care and supervision, live-in care involves a caregiver residing in your home to provide continuous support.
At Trilogy Care, we believe in the power of home care to support not just your physical health, but your mental wellbeing. By offering personalised care, fostering independence, and improving your quality of life, our services enable you to age gracefully and comfortably at home.
If you or your loved ones are considering home care, we invite you to explore our services and find out how we can support your journey to a happier, healthier life.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch with us at Trilogy Care and let us help you navigate your care journey with compassion and expertise.
A guide to level 2 Home Care Package
Understanding the options for home care services can be overwhelming, especially with the various levels of Home Care Package available. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Level 2 Home Care Package, detailing its services, eligibility criteria, costs, and the application process. Understanding these elements can help you or your loved one make informed decisions about accessing appropriate support.
What is a Level 2 Home Care Package?
A Level 2 Home Care Package is part of the Australian Government’s initiative to support older Australians in staying at home rather than moving into residential care. This package is designed for people who have been assessed as having low-level care needs. It aims to improve the quality of life, allowing individuals to maintain their independence and continue living comfortably in their homes.
What services are included in a Level 2 Home Care Package?
A Level 2 Home Care Package offers various services tailored to meet the individual’s needs. These services can include:
- Personal care: Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
- Domestic assistance: Help with household chores like cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
- Transport: Support with transportation for shopping, medical appointments, or social outings.
- Social support: Companionship and assistance in engaging in community activities.
- Home modifications: Minor modifications to improve safety and accessibility within the home.
- Nursing support: Basic medical care and health monitoring from a qualified nurse.
These services are designed to ensure the well being and comfort of the individual and promote a healthier and more active lifestyle.
Are there costs associated with a level 2 Home Care Package?
A Level 2 Home Care Package is divided into two main components:
Government contribution: The federal government provides a subsidy to cover the care costs. For a Level 2 package, the subsidy is currently set at around $714.28 a fortnight.
Individual contribution: Depending on your financial situation, you may be asked to contribute towards the cost of your care. This contribution can include:
- Basic daily fee: This is a small fee that everyone receiving a Home Care Package may be asked to pay. As of 20 March 2024, the basic daily fee for Home Care Package level ranges from $11.43 to $12.75 per day. Trilogy Care DO NOT charge a basic daily fee.
- Income-tested fees: Services Australia means-tests Home Care Packages. Depending on your income, you may need to make an additional contribution. Full pensioners and people with an income less than $33,070.80 per year do not pay an income-tested fee.
You can find a detailed breakdown of all the costs and fees associated with the Home Care Package here.
Who is eligible for a Level 2 Home Care Package?
Eligibility for a Level 2 Home Care Package is determined through an assessment process conducted by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). The assessment evaluates the individual’s care needs and determines their suitability for different levels of Home Care Package. Generally, the following criteria must be met:
- Age: Typically available to those aged 65 and over or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- Care needs: Individuals with low-level care needs who may need to be visited three to four times a week.
- Living situation: Preferably living at home and needing assistance to continue living independently.
You can check if you can receive services using My Aged Care’s eligibility check, or apply for an assessment online if you are ready.
How do I apply for a Home Care Package?
Applying for a Level 2 Home Care Package involves these steps: Contact My Aged Care, online or by phone. If you meet the minimum eligibility requirements, an ACAT or ACAS assessor will visit your home for a free assessment. If eligible, you’ll receive an approval letter specifying your care level.
For more details, see our 5 steps to apply for a Home Care Package.
Select a Home Care Package provider
Once you’ve been approved for a Home Care Package, finding an approved provider is crucial to ensure you receive high-quality care. Use My Aged Care’s ‘Find a Provider’ tool to locate providers in your area that meet the standards set by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
When selecting a provider, consider these key factors:
- Do they provide services in my area?
- Do they provide the type of services I want?
- Do they have availability?
- Are they in alignment with anything particularly important to me, e.g., culture or faith?
Choosing a provider is a personal decision, and while recommendations are helpful, it’s essential to find the right fit for your needs. Consider how ‘hands-on’ you want to be with your care. Providers may offer fully managed, shared managed, or self-managed services. The level of provider involvement can affect your budget, flexibility, and control over your care. Not all providers offer both self-managed and fully managed options, so determine your desired level of involvement before making your selection.
For more details, see our How to choose a Home Care Package provider.
At Trilogy Care, we are completely transparent in our pricing. Our services are charged at a flat percentage – we do not hide behind any hidden fees or surcharges. We offer 15% of your Home Care Package for our Self Managed tier or 26% of your Home Care Package for Self Managed PLUS tier.
This lower fee structure means more of your funds go directly towards your care rather than administrative costs. We can offer a more efficient use of your Home Care Package funds if you’re looking to switch providers or need a new provider.
JulEYE: National Eye Health Awareness Month
JulEYE is National Eye Health Awareness Month in Australia. Run by The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), this initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about eye health and the importance of regular eye examinations, aiming to educate Australians on the significance of maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss.
This JulEYE, let’s shine a light on the importance of eye health and learn how to look after our vision.
The importance of eye health
Our eyes can assist us with everyday tasks, from reading and driving to recognising faces and enjoying the beauty of the world around us. However, eye health often gets overlooked until issues arise. Neglecting eye health can lead to severe consequences, including vision loss and blindness, which can significantly impact our personal and professional lives. Regular eye examinations can detect problems early, ensuring timely treatment and preventing the progression of eye diseases. JulEYE encourages everyone to take proactive steps in looking after their vision, by adopting healthy habits to preserve our long-term vision.
Common eye conditions
Understanding common eye conditions helps in recognising symptoms early. Here are a few to be aware of:
- Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, leading to blurred vision. More common in older adults.
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye, potentially damaging the optic nerve and leading to vision loss.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Affects the macula, leading to central vision loss.
- Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes, leading to vision impairment.
Tips to maintain healthy eyesight
Our eyes, like any other part of the body, require regular care and attention to function optimally. By adopting a few simple habits, we can significantly improve our eye health and prevent many common vision problems. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain healthy eyesight:
Regular eye exams: Regular eye examinations are vital for detecting issues early. Adults should have their eyes tested every two years, and annually if over 65 or with a family history of eye disease.
Protect your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. UV protection is crucial even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate through clouds.
Eat a balanced diet: Consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, helps maintain good eye health. Incorporate leafy greens, fish, nuts, and colourful fruits and vegetables into your diet.
Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain eye moisture, preventing dryness and irritation. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and damage to the optic nerve. Quitting smoking can benefit your overall health, including your eyes.
Practice good screen habits: With increased screen time, it’s essential to take breaks to reduce eye strain. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Wear protective eyewear: Use safety glasses or goggles when engaging in activities that could pose a risk to your eyes, such as home repairs, gardening, or playing certain sports.
How to get involved
JulEYE is a great time to get involved and spread awareness about eye health. Here are some ways you can participate:
- Schedule an eye exam: Ensure you and your family members have regular eye check-ups.
- Spread the word: Use social media to share information about JulEYE and the importance of eye health.
- Donate: Support organisations like The Eye Surgeons’ Foundation to fund eye health research and treatment.
- Volunteer: Get involved with local community events focused on eye health awareness.
JulEYE serves as a reminder to prioritise our eye health and take proactive steps in maintaining good vision. By following these tips and encouraging others to do the same, we can collectively work towards a future where preventable vision loss is significantly reduced. Remember, healthy eyes lead to a healthier, happier life. So, let’s to protect our sight this JulEYE.
International Men’s Health Week
This year, International Men’s Health Week is celebrating its 30th anniversary, taking place from 10 June to 16 June. This milestone is a perfect reminder of the importance of men’s health and wellbeing, particularly for our senior men. Ageing is a natural part of life, but maintaining health and vitality as we grow older requires a proactive approach. Regular health checks can significantly enhance your quality of life and even add years to it.
This International Men’s Health Week, encourage your fathers, brothers, partners, friends, and even yourself to take control of your wellbeing and to make a commitment to prioritise your health.
Why health checks are important
As we age, our bodies go through various changes, making regular health checks more crucial than ever. Early detection of potential health issues can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. International Men’s Health Week shines a spotlight on the importance of men’s health checks, encouraging men to stay on top of their health.
Regular health checks are not just about addressing existing problems but also about preventive care. They provide an opportunity to catch any potential health issues before they become serious. For older men, these checks are especially important as the risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer increases with age. By staying proactive, you can manage your health more effectively and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Essential health checks for older men
Here are some essential health checks that men should consider as they get older:
Blood pressure check: High blood pressure is a hidden health risk, often showing no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Regular monitoring can help manage and prevent complications such as heart disease and stroke.
Cholesterol levels: High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Regular checks can help manage cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication if necessary.
Prostate health: Prostate issues, including prostate cancer, become more common as men age. Regular PSA tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) can help detect pros
Diabetes screening: Type 2 diabetes is prevalent among older adults. Regular blood glucose tests can help catch diabetes early, making it easier to manage and reduce the risk of complications.
Bowel cancer screening: Australia offers a National Bowel Cancer Screening Program for people aged 50 to 74. Regular screening can detect bowel cancer early, when it is most treatable.
Bone density test: Osteoporosis doesn’t just effect women. Men can also suffer from bone loss, leading to fractures and other issues. A bone density test can help assess risk and guide preventive measures.
Eye and hearing tests: Regular eye exams can detect conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, while hearing tests can help manage hearing loss, improving overall quality of life.
Let’s not forget about mental health
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental wellbeing can significantly impact overall quality of life, influencing how we think, feel, and act. Good mental health enables individuals to handle stress, build strong relationships, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Conversely, neglecting mental health can lead to severe consequences, including depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, which can affect physical health and overall wellbeing. By prioritising mental health alongside physical health, we can create a more positive approach to wellbeing, encouraging men to seek support, engage in open conversations, and practice self-care. This balanced focus ensures that men can lead healthier, happier lives, equipped to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength.
Creating supportive communities
Creating supportive communities is vital for enhancing men’s health, especially for older men. Family and friends play a crucial role in this effort by providing emotional support, encouraging healthy habits, and ensuring regular health check-ups. Simple actions, like accompanying a loved one to a doctor’s appointment or engaging in regular physical activities together, can make a significant difference.
Community initiatives and resources, such as local health workshops, support groups, and fitness programs, are essential in promoting men’s health awareness and providing accessible information and services. Building strong networks of support for older men, whether through social clubs, men’s sheds, or online forums, fosters a sense of belonging and encourages proactive health management. These networks not only combat isolation but also create a culture where discussing and prioritising health becomes the norm.
Or, you could join Trilogy Care’s Facebook community: Trilogy Care Connect.
Trilogy Care supporting International Men's Health Week
This year, Trilogy Care is supporting International Men’s Health Week by participating in the Push-Up Challenge from 5 to 28 June to raise awareness about mental health.
This initiative encourages everyone to participate by choosing any exercise they enjoy, whether it’s push-ups, walking, chair sit-ups, stretching, or any other physical activity. Participants are invited to take a photo or video of themselves engaging in their chosen exercise and share it by sending it to marketing@trilogycare.com.au or posting it in the community group to inspire others.
To add a fun twist, Trilogy Care will be randomly selecting three participants to receive a $100 gift card. By promoting physical activity and mental health awareness, Trilogy Care is fostering a supportive community that motivates and uplifts its members during International Men’s Health Week.
International Men’s Health Week is not just about raising awareness; it’s about taking action. This year, let’s celebrate by encouraging all men, especially older men, to schedule their health checks and take charge of their wellbeing. By focusing on both physical and mental health, and by creating supportive communities, we can ensure a healthier, happier future for all.
Ensuring your invoices and reimbursements are paid quickly
At Trilogy Care, we understand how important timely payments are, and we strive to process and pay invoices within 14 days of submission. However, delays can sometimes occur due to incomplete invoices, budget shortfalls, or unapproved items. To help ensure your invoices and reimbursements are processed smoothly and on time, we’ve put together this helpful guide with key tips to avoid common hold-ups.
1. Submit bills and reimbursements online
When you submit your invoices or reimbursement requests online, they are entered into our system immediately. You can find the submission links in the website header or in the Trilogy Care Portal.
To avoid delays, please refrain from resubmitting an invoice or reimbursement, as this can create duplicates and extend processing times.
2. Submit complete invoices only
Incomplete invoices or reimbursement requests may cause delays, as our team needs to gather additional information before they can be processed.
To ensure a smooth and timely payment process, please make sure your invoice includes:
- Date of service
- Business name
- Business ABN
- Care recipient information
- An itemised list of services or products included
- Invoice amount
- GST amount (if applicable)
- Total invoice amount
Providing all the necessary details upfront helps us process your payment efficiently.
3. Support service or carer compliance checks
If you are a support worker, please ensure that all required compliance documents have been submitted and your compliance check is complete before submitting any invoices.
If you are a care recipient, we recommend confirming that your support services have completed their compliance checks before they begin working with you.
4. Available budget
A common reason invoices or reimbursements may be delayed is insufficient funds in the available Home Care Package budget. Care recipients can check their available budget anytime through the Trilogy Care Portal or by contacting their care partner for assistance.
5. Care plan coverage
For an item or service to be covered by your Home Care Package, it must be included in your Care Plan. If it’s a new service or amendment of hourly rates/ number of hours, please reach out to your care partner for these changes to be added in your budget so that we can process your invoices seamlessly. Ensure you are aware of inclusions and exclusions.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your invoices and reimbursements are processed smoothly and without delays.
If you are experiencing payment delays, you can review your current bills through the Trilogy Care Portal or contact our Accounts Team at 1300 459 190 for assistance.
Stay connected and manage your care with ease. Visit the Trilogy Care Portal to view your Care Plan and access important resources.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
As our global population ages, it has become increasingly vital to address the challenges and injustices faced by our elders. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), which falls on 15 June each year, serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and support the older members of our communities. By raising awareness, educating ourselves, and taking action, we can help ensure that every older person can live their life safety and with respect.
Join us as we delve into the significance of WEAAD, explore the various forms of elder abuse, identify common signs, and highlight the resources available in Australia to support those affected. Together, we can make a difference and create a safer, more compassionate world for our elders.
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is a deeply concerning issue that affects millions of older people worldwide. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 6 adults (15%) or 598,000 experienced elder abuse in 2023. Understanding elder abuse is crucial to safeguarding the dignity and wellbeing of older individuals. The impact of abuse on elders can be profound, affecting their physical health, emotional state, and overall quality of life.
It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect, and can occur in various settings, such as within families, in residential care facilities, and in the broader community.
It’s important to recognise that elder abuse is often hidden and underreported, which is why it’s essential to approach the issue with empathy and a commitment to advocacy. By fostering a compassionate and informed community, we can better protect our elders and ensure they receive the respect and care they deserve.
Signs to look out for
Recognising the signs of elder abuse is crucial in protecting older individuals from harm. Some common indicators include:
Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or injuries. Frequent visits to different healthcare providers or delay in seeking medical treatment can also be a red flag.
Behavioral changes: Sudden changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal, depression, anxiety, or fearfulness around certain individuals, can indicate abuse.
Financial red flags: Unusual or large withdrawals from bank accounts, changes in financial situations, or missing belongings and valuable assets may suggest financial exploitation.
Neglect: Poor hygiene, untreated medical conditions, malnutrition, dehydration, or unsanitary living conditions can be signs of neglect.
Isolation: An elder being isolated from friends, family, or social activities, especially if it is sudden or unexplained, might be a sign of abuse.
Take action
Awareness is the first step towards preventing elder abuse. By recognising the signs and knowing where to get help, we can all play a part in protecting our older population.
Here are some ways you can take action:
Educate yourself and others: Learn more about elder abuse and share this information with your community. Awareness campaigns, workshops, and discussions can help spread knowledge and prevent abuse.
Support older individuals: Reach out to older friends, family members, and neighbours. Regular contact can help detect any signs of abuse and provide emotional support.
Advocate for stronger protections: Advocate for stronger laws and policies to protect older people. Support organisations working to end elder abuse and promote the rights of the elderly.
Volunteer: Offer your time to organisations that support older individuals. Volunteering can make a significant difference in the lives of those who may be vulnerable to abuse.
Report suspected abuse: If you suspect someone is being abused, don’t hesitate to report it. Contact the appropriate helplines or authorities to ensure the person gets the help they need.
Where to get help
In Australia, there are several resources and organisations dedicated to supporting older individuals experiencing abuse and those who suspect abuse. Here are some key places to get help:
National Elder Abuse Phone Line (1800 ELDERHelp or 1800 353 374): This is a free, confidential helpline providing information, support, and referrals to local services.
Seniors Rights Service (02 9281 3600): This organisation offers free, confidential advocacy, advice, and education to older people in New South Wales.
Elder Abuse Helpline (1300 651 192): For residents in Queensland, this helpline offers information, support, and referrals to appropriate services.
Victorian Advocacy League for Individuals with Disability (VALID) (03 9416 4003): While primarily focused on disability advocacy, VALID also provides support to older people with disabilities who may be experiencing abuse.
Council on the Ageing (COTA): COTA is a national organisation representing the rights and interests of older Australians. They provide information and support through their state and territory offices.
My Aged Care: For assistance with other aged care matters, visit the My Aged Care website or call 1800 200 422.
Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission: If you wish to raise concerns about your aged care support, you can contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to file a complaint or seek guidance.
Legal Aid Commissions: Legal Aid provides legal advice and representation for older people experiencing abuse. Each state and territory in Australia has its own Legal Aid Commission.
Local Health and Community Services: Many local health and community services offer support and resources for elder abuse. This includes GPs, social workers, and community health centres.
Police: In cases of immediate danger or suspected criminal activity, contacting the police is crucial. They can provide immediate assistance and ensure the safety of the older person.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting and respecting our older population. By raising awareness, recognising the signs of abuse, and knowing where to get help, we can make a significant impact in preventing elder abuse.
Let’s stand together to ensure that all older individuals live with dignity, respect, and safety.
Share the Care: Refer a friend to Trilogy Care
Are you happy with the care and support you receive from Trilogy Care? We believe that the best recommendations come from those who’ve experienced our services firsthand, which is why we’re excited to introduce Share the Care, our referral program!
By referring friends, family, or acquaintances to Trilogy Care, you can help others receive the high-quality home care they deserve. Plus, for every successful referral where your friend selects Trilogy Care as their Home Care Package provider, you’ll receive a $100 Bill Fairy voucher.
Friends helping friends – it’s the best kind of care.
Why refer a friend?
Help your friends: Ensure your friends and family get the same trusted, quality care you receive.
Strengthen community: Build a community of well-cared-for individuals with Trilogy Care.
Earn rewards: Enjoy a $100 Bill Fairy voucher for each successful referral.
By participating in Share the Care, you’re not only helping others discover top-quality home care but also earning rewards as our way of saying thank you. Start referring today and enjoy the benefits of sharing Trilogy Care’s exceptional services!
How to refer a friend
Referring someone to Trilogy Care is simple:
Referral link: Share your unique referral link directly with friends, family, or acquaintances through email, social media, or any other communication methods.
Direct contact: Alternatively, the referral may call Trilogy Care and provide the referee’s details over the phone.
Eligibility
To ensure the success of our referral program, the following criteria must be met:
Referrer eligibility
Current care recipient or authorised representative: The referrer must be an active Trilogy Care care recipient or authorised representative of a current Trilogy Care care recipient with at least three (3) months of continuous service at the time of the referral.
Valid contact details: The referrer must provide accurate contact information for the person being referred.
Consent: The referrer must have obtained explicit consent from the referred person to share their contact information with Trilogy Care.
Referred person eligibility
New to Trilogy Care: The referred individual must not have previously or currently received services from Trilogy Care.
Service agreement: The referred individual must have a current Home Care Package and agree to receive services from Trilogy Care as a result of the referral.
Three months of service: The referred individual must remain a care recipient with Trilogy Care for at least three (3) consecutive months.
Referral criteria
To take part in the Share the Care program, your referral must be a new contact who hasn’t previously used Trilogy Care’s services.
By joining our Refer a Friend initiative, you’re not only helping others discover high-quality home care but also receiving rewards as a thank you from us. Start referring today and share the benefits of Trilogy Care’s exceptional services with your community!
For more details, please refer to the terms and conditions on our website.
If you have any questions, feel free to email us at marketing@trilogycare.com.au
Five steps to accessing Home Care Package program
In Australia, the Home Care Package program provides essential support for older Australians who wish to continue living independently at home without the need to move into a full-time care facility. If you or a loved one find daily tasks increasingly challenging, understanding how to access and benefit from a Home Care Package program is important.
This article will walk you through the 5 steps you need to take to access your Home Care Package program.
Steps to access your Home Care Package program
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Verifying your Home Care Package program eligibility is the first step in your journey. To begin, make an assessment request via My Aged Care. The first step is to check eligibility using the My Aged Care’s eligibility checker. You may do this by visiting their website or giving them a call at 1800 200 422.
Step 2: Undergo Your ACAT assessment
An ACAT assessor will evaluate your situation either at your home or over the phone, depending on your location and preference. During this thorough assessment, they’ll determine the level of care you require and assign a priority level based on urgency.
How should I prepare for my assessment?
To help you prepare for your assessment, go over the following information:
- Have your Medicare card and another form of identification (passport, DVA card, driver’s license, healthcare card, etc.).
- Have a copy of any doctor referrals.
- Think about whether you would like a support person to attend.
- Have any previous knowledge about aged care services that you would like to discuss.
- Have your GP’s or other medical professionals’ contact information on hand.
- Consider whether you require special communication support, such as a translator or Auslan interpreter.
- Have information on any support you receive.
Step 3: Find out your assessment outcome
Following the assessment, you will receive correspondence from My Aged Care regarding the results. We encourage you to access your My Aged Care online account to review the support plan and referral codes provided. These referral codes will be necessary to activate your Home Care Package program once it has been allocated to you. Please be aware that you will be placed on the National Priority System, a centralised waitlist where packages are assigned based on urgency and individual circumstances, regardless of location. It is important to remain patient during this process as the assignment timing can vary due to demand.
Step 4: Being assigned a package and your referral code
Following the evaluation, My Aged Care will send you a letter outlining the results. Visit your My Aged Care account online to review the available referral codes and assistance plan. Once assigned, these referral codes are necessary to activate your package. You will be added to the National Priority System, a centralised waitlist where Home Care Package program is distributed regardless of location following urgency and individual circumstances. This phase calls for patience because the Home Care Package program may be assigned at different times based on demand.
Step 5: Begin self-managing with Trilogy Care
Once the Home Care Package funding is activated, you can receive care and services through Trilogy Care. Our comprehensive support network will assist you in creating a personalised plan that prioritises your health, well-being, and independence. By self-managing your care, you can tailor your services to suit your lifestyle, allowing for flexibility and control over the care you are provided.
Understanding these five steps will empower you to confidently access the Home Care Package program and secure the most suitable care services. Taking charge of your care plan allows you to lead a comfortable, independent lifestyle while enjoying the support of a dedicated provider like Trilogy Care.
Would you like more information?
Contact Trilogy Care today!
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Joe’s Reconciliation: From hidden roots to proud ancestry
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for reflection, learning, and coming together as a nation to build relationships and promote understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It’s a time to acknowledge the past, celebrate the present, and look towards a more harmonious future.
Joe, a Trilogy Care recipient, shared his journey to reconnect with his culture and history, shedding light on the challenges many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals encounter while striving to reclaim and celebrate their ancestry.
Although Joe was born Christopher James Hall, when his grandfather first saw him as a baby he exclaimed, “That’s my little Joe right there!”. From that day forward, he became known to all as Joe.
Growing up, Joe was unaware of his Indigenous heritage as his mother kept their ancestry a secret.
“Our mum was somewhat prejudiced about our black heritage. Although we’re not fully black in colour, we never understood why she kept it hidden. After her passing, a lot was revealed by uncles and aunties. We are proud to be Aboriginal, and now we are welcomed by our heritage elders.”
Following his mother’s passing, Joe and his sister sought to reconnect with their heritage. After researching the family and discovering they have Cantwell Partridge heritage dating back to the 1800s, Joe and his sister visited Mindaribba to present evidence of their ancestry.
“Well, the elders said ‘Welcome to the family. Good to see you. Come back to us.’ And then they said, ‘you need to be named’. So, my sister was named Tiriki which means bright star and I was named Kuway Kuway which means proud man.”
Being accepted into the family and recognised as uncle and auntie by the younger generation brought a sense of belonging and validation to Joe and his sister.
“To be accepted straight away, it’s amazing. And they walk past now and say, ‘hey uncle’ and it gives you a great feeling inside that you’re accepted back into the family.”
Joe’s connection with his culture has been a guiding force throughout his life, influencing his personal and professional paths.
About five years ago, I went to an Aboriginal seminar. They put name tags on us, of course. And my last name is Hall. But mum’s last name was Bates. I looked around and saw all these ‘Bates’. All the name tags ‘Bates, Bates, Bates’, and I’m going ‘hang on’. I walked up to one guy and said, ‘Are you from Sydney? My grandfather is, and his name is Lionel George Bates’ and the guy replied, ‘Yeah, he’s part of the family’. I couldn’t believe it.” Joe’s exploration of his roots has shifted his perspective, bringing a renewed sense of purpose and identity to his daily life. By engaging with his community and culture, he has not only rediscovered his history but also reclaimed it after it was obscured for much of his youth.
Joe’s journey, especially when it comes to care and supports, has not been without its challenges. In the past, he encountered discrimination and bureaucratic struggles when seeking care services. Since shifting to Trilogy Care, Joe expressed how easy it is to access the support he needs to live the life he wants.
“Being self-managed allows me to choose services that align with my cultural beliefs. I can pick and choose what I want and how I want it. I also have to put in a good word for Madison [my care partner]. She’s a great girl. I only have to drop her an email and it’s solved within a day or two at most.”
By listening, advocating, and adapting to individual circumstances, Trilogy Care has shown that quality care is not just about providing services, but about building meaningful and respectful relationships.
“They’re not prejudiced. They’ve never said anything like ‘well, because you’re Aboriginal…’ they don’t use those type of words. They just treat as they would anyone else.”
As Joe continues to navigate his care journey, he remains committed to advocating for his rights and embracing his heritage with pride. He emphasises the importance of listening to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories and experiences while also being mindful of potential misconceptions. Joe’s experience highlights the importance of compassionate and culturally competent care in creating positive outcomes for all individuals, regardless of background or circumstance.