What is residential aged care?

Residential aged care is for older Australians who can no longer manage daily living at home on their own. You may hear them referred to as nursing homes, residential aged care facilities (RACFs) or, as we like to say here at Palm Lake Care, ‘aged caring communities’. These are 24-hour nursing care facilities, offering personal care like bathing, dressing and help with mobility. Residents also benefit from nursing and general healthcare services, ensuring their needs are met around the clock.

Why does residential aged care matter?

Many older Australians hope to stay in their homes as they age, but this isn’t always practical. Residential aged care offers a safe, supportive space for those who need extra help with daily tasks or managing their health. To make this option more affordable, the Australian government subsidises aged care homes, helping more people access the care they need.

Who can access residential aged care?

To move into subsidised aged care facilities, you’ll need approval through an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Click here to begin your My Aged Care assessment.

For individuals under 65 living with permanent disabilities, the NDIS might offer support.

How much does aged care cost?

Nursing home costs vary depending on the home and your financial situation, but there are three main types of fees:

Accommodation costs: Covers your room and may be subsidised
Basic daily care fee: Helps cover everyday expenses like meals, laundry, and personal care
Means-tested care fee: A fee based on your income and assets.

To get an idea of costs, try the fee estimator on the My Aged Care website or give them a call.

Who oversees residential aged care?

Aged care homes are run by approved providers and subsidised by the Australian government. You can search for these homes – and even explore short-term care options – on the My Aged Care website, or simply Google ‘short term respite care near me’.

The Department of Health ensures these providers meet strict standards under the Aged Care Act 1997, while the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission assesses their services to keep quality high.

What about respite care?

Residential respite care is a short-term stay in an aged care home, designed to give carers or their loved ones a break. Whether you need to plan ahead or require emergency care, respite is there to help.

With an ACAT assessment, eligible residents can access up to 63 days of subsidised respite each financial year, with a potential 21-day extension if needed.

Interested in learning more?

The team at Palm Lake Care is here to help. Please contact us to learn more about residential aged care and residential respite care.