When people hear about the restorative care pathway in the new Support at Home program, they often assume it’s just for recovering from falls or physical injuries. While it certainly helps in those situations, the restorative care pathway is much more than that. It’s a short-term, targeted program designed to help you regain or improve your independence after any change in health or ability.
Let’s explore what the restorative care pathway really offers and who can benefit.
What is the restorative care pathway?
The restorative care pathway is a short-term support pathway under Support at Home that gives you access to up to 12 weeks of intensive allied health and nursing services. In some cases, it can even be extended by another four weeks.
It’s aimed at helping you:
- Regain strength, function or mobility after illness, hospitalisation or a fall
- Manage a new or worsening health condition
- Build confidence to return to everyday activities
- Stay independent in your home for as long as possible
Rather than simply maintaining your current condition, the restorative care pathway focuses on improving it through tailored, professional support.
So, is it just for falls recovery?
No. While falls are a common reason people access the restorative care pathway, they’re just one of many scenarios where it can help.
Other examples include:
- Recovering strength and stamina after a long illness or surgery
- Improving balance and confidence after hospitalisation
- Managing a newly diagnosed chronic condition, such as Parkinson’s or arthritis
- Rebuilding everyday living skills after an extended period of reduced activity
- Regaining independence after a mental health episode, such as depression or anxiety, that affected mobility or self-care
If you’ve experienced any functional decline, whether physically, cognitively, or emotionally, and there’s potential to improve, you may benefit from the restorative care pathway.
Who is eligible for the pathway?
Anyone who meets the following criteria could be referred for assessment:
- Aged 65 or over (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- Living at home, not in permanent residential aged care
- Has a short-term goal to improve or regain independence
- Has a condition that can reasonably be improved with targeted therapy and support
Your restorative care partner or assessor will help determine if the restorative care pathway is the right fit for your needs.
How does it work?
Once approved, you’ll work with a restorative care partner – a health professional who coordinates your care. Together, you’ll create a personalised goal plan, which may include:
- Physiotherapy or occupational therapy
- Nursing care
- Home modifications or assistive technology
- Support to practise everyday activities like cooking, walking or shopping
- Emotional and social support
The aim is to meet your goals within the program’s timeframe, helping you regain independence and confidence.
Don't forget the restorative care pathway
The restorative care pathway is a fantastic opportunity for older Australians to improve their health, confidence and quality of life after a setback. It’s not just about falls; it’s about giving you the support you need to bounce back, whatever the cause of your decline.
If you think you or a loved one could benefit from the restorative care pathway, speak to your care partner or care coordinator about a referral today, or call us on 1300 459 190 to learn more.
