08. How We Can Help You Transition To 'Support At Home'

From 1 November 2025 the Australian Government will replace the Home Care Package and Short-Term Restorative Care programs with the new Support at Home program. It’s a simplified and more flexible approach aimed at helping older Australians live comfortably and independently at home for longer. At Rural Lifestyle Options Australia (RLOA) we are here to guide you every step of the way through this transition with care, clarity and compassion.

What is 'Support at Home' and why it matters to you...

Support at Home is a streamlined aged care model under My Aged Care that replaces previous programs offering:

• Faster access to services, products, assistive technology and home modifications

• Expanded funding tiers and pathways for short-term care and ongoing support

• Personalised care tailored to your lifestyle, goals and changing needs

If you already receive a Home Care Package rest assured you keep your current funding level and unspent funds and you may even pay less out of pocket.

How RLOA makes your transition easy...

1. No Unexpected Surprises

You won’t lose funding during the switch. The government applies the “No Worse Off” principle meaning your financial contributions will stay the same or reduce compared to the previous program.

2. Tailored Support Plan from Day One

Our friendly Care Coordinators will help you create a personalised care plan designed around your lifestyle and changing needs.

You will get support with:

• Daily living tasks such as cleaning, laundry, shopping, gardening and minor home maintenance

• Personal care including grooming, mobility, mealtime assistance, continence and oral care

• Social & emotional wellbeing through companionship, mental stimulation activities and outings

3. Short-Term Pathways for Specific Needs

Support at Home isn’t only for ongoing care. It also includes short-term pathways:

• Restorative Care helps you regain independence with allied health services for a limited period

• End-of-Life Care supports comfortable living at home in life’s final stage

  
  

4. In-Home Assessments & Seamless Setup

• We can assist you through your aged care assessment and referrals via My Aged Care.

• From paperwork to care activation our team supports you through every step.

5. Private Support Services When You Need Them

• If you are waiting for government-funded services or prefer to begin support immediately our Fee-For-Service Private Support is available.

• You will have access to tailored aged care services without delay.

6. Personal Service with Rural Charm

Whether you are in the Redlands, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Logan or Scenic Rim RLOA brings care with a splash of country warmth directly to you building on over 30 years of local community-focused service. Your Next Steps

Step 1. Reach Out to Us

Call us on 1300 032 175 or email agedcare@rloa.org.au to talk through your situation and care goals.

Step 2. Begin the Transition or Private Support

We will guide you through your assessment or arrange for private care so you’re supported right away.

Step 3. Create Your Plan Together

Our team will help you build your personalised care plan, set up services and manage changes as your needs evolve.

Final Thoughts...

At RLOA our mission is to help you live well and for longer by staying in the home you love supported by people who listen, understand and care.

Whether you are transitioning into Support at Home or want care support without waiting we are here to ensure the journey is smooth, empowering and tailored to you.

Want to take the next step?

Get in touch with our team by calling 1300 032 175 or by emailing agedcare@rloa.org.au today!

07. The Role of Family and Friends in Your Support at Home Care Plan

At Rural Lifestyle Options Australia, we are committed to supporting older Australians with high quality and tailored Aged Care Home Care services. As the Australian government rolls out the new 'Support at Home' program, we understand that the changes may raise questions and concerns for our community.

To ensure that our participants and their families are well informed and prepared for these changes, we have developed a 'Support At Home' Blog Series. It aims to clarify the key aspects of the new program, including how it works, what services are available and how the transition will unfold.

Our goal is to provide clear, accessible information so that our clients can make empowered decisions about their care and continue to live independently and comfortably in their own homes.

Creating a Personalised Care Plan: The Key to Maximising Your Support at Home Services

When it comes to Support at Home services, the journey isn’t just about the care you receive, it's also about the role of your family and friends. Their involvement in your care plan is essential to ensuring that the services you receive align with your goals, lifestyle and needs.

In this blog post, we will discuss the vital role that your loved ones can play in your personalised care plan and how they can work with your care coordinator and service providers to create the best possible support structure for you.

We’ll also explore how to communicate effectively with family members and friends to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Why Family and Friends Matter in Your Care Plan

While the professionals you work with (care coordinators, nurses and therapists) are vital to your Support at Home services, your family and friends can make a huge impact as well. Here are several reasons why their involvement is important:

1. Emotional and Social Support

Family and friends provide the emotional and social support that is just as important as physical care. Whether it’s offering companionship, providing reassurance or just being there to listen, loved ones help you maintain your mental and emotional well-being. This support can be invaluable, especially during times when you feel vulnerable or overwhelmed.

2. Assisting with Daily Activities

Depending on your needs, family and friends may be able to assist with certain daily tasks, like meal preparation, running errands, or helping with mobility. Even if they’re not directly involved in the Support at Home services, their assistance can help fill in the gaps and relieve pressure from professional caregivers.

3. Advocating for Your Needs

Family members are often your strongest advocates. They can help ensure that your care plan reflects your preferences and needs. Sometimes, navigating the healthcare system can be complex, and having a trusted family member who understands your situation can make all the difference in securing the right services for you.

4. Providing a Continuity of Care

Care needs can fluctuate, and having family or friends involved in your care plan ensures that you have a continuity of care when professional services are unavailable. Whether it's covering a shift when a caregiver is out sick or being there to help with extra care on particularly tough days, loved ones can fill in when needed.

How to Include Family and Friends in Your Care Plan

Including your family and friends in your Support at Home care plan is an important step toward ensuring that you receive holistic care that addresses your physical, emotional, and social needs.

Here are some ways to ensure their involvement:

1. Open Communication

It’s important to have open, honest communication with your loved ones about your needs, preferences and goals. Regularly share updates on your care plan, including any changes to your health or services. Let them know where you might need extra help or where you feel more independence is important.

2. Discuss Their Role

Not everyone is in the same position to provide care or support. Some family members might be able to assist with certain tasks, while others may prefer to focus on providing emotional support or advocacy. Have a clear discussion about what each family member’s role will be, and be sure to align this with your care plan. It’s essential that expectations are realistic and manageable.

3. Encourage Family Involvement in Care Planning

Family members can attend meetings with your care coordinator or participate in care planning discussions. This ensures that they fully understand the support being provided and can make suggestions based on their understanding of your daily routine and preferences.

4. Establish Boundaries

While family members can provide invaluable support, it’s important to set boundaries to ensure that you’re not overburdening anyone. Make sure that you’re balancing the help provided by family and friends with professional care services. It’s also crucial to encourage self-care for those who are helping you.

5. Leverage Technology for Support

In cases where loved ones may not be physically present, technology can help. Video calls, health monitoring apps, and digital communication tools can keep family and friends in the loop, enabling them to stay involved in your care plan even from a distance.

Challenges and Solutions for Family Involvement

While family support is essential, it can also come with challenges. Here are some common issues and how to overcome them:

1. Conflicting Opinions

Family members might not always agree on the best approach to your care. To overcome this, try to have open discussions where everyone can express their concerns, but ultimately defer to your wishes. If disagreements persist, a meeting with your care coordinator or a mediator might help to clarify the best course of action.

2. Burnout

Family caregivers can experience burnout if they are taking on too much responsibility. It’s important to recognise when someone is becoming overwhelmed and ensure that professional services are brought in to alleviate the strain. Caregiver support groups or respite care can also offer relief for family members.

3. Geographic Distance

Family members who live far away may find it difficult to participate in your care plan directly. Technology can help bridge this gap, but it’s also worth considering local community resources that can provide support when needed.

Final Thoughts...

Your family and friends play a vital role in the success of your Support at Home care plan.

By including them in the process and ensuring that their involvement is balanced, you can create a care plan that is both effective and sustainable. As your needs change, regular communication and adjustments to your care plan will help keep everyone aligned, ensuring that you get the best care possible while maintaining a strong support system.

In the next blog post, we’ll explore strategies for managing your Support at Home services during a health crisis or unexpected change in your circumstances.

Stay tuned for more details and feel free to ask any questions to our team by calling 1300 032 175 or by emailing enquiries@rloa.org.au today!

06. Creating a Personalised Care Plan: The Key to Maximising Your Support at Home Services

At Rural Lifestyle Options Australia, we are committed to supporting older Australians with high-quality and tailored Aged Care Home Care services. As the Australian government rolls out the new 'Support at Home' program, we understand that the changes may raise questions and concerns for our community.

To ensure that our participants and their families are well-informed and prepared for these changes, we have developed a 'Support At Home' Blog Series. It aims to clarify the key aspects of the new program, including how it works, what services are available and how the transition will unfold.

Our goal is to provide clear, accessible information so that our clients can make empowered decisions about their care and continue to live independently and comfortably in their own homes.

Creating a Personalised Care Plan: The Key to Maximising Your Support at Home Services

A personalised care plan is the cornerstone of the Support at Home program. It’s designed to meet your unique needs, ensuring that the services you receive are tailored to your individual circumstances.

But what exactly goes into creating a personalised care plan, and how can it make a difference in the effectiveness of the care you receive?

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the importance of a personalised care plan and provide guidance on how to create one that aligns with your specific goals, needs, and preferences. We’ll also discuss the steps to review and update the plan as your needs change over time.

What Is a Personalised Care Plan?

A personalised care plan is a document that outlines the services and support you will receive under the Support at Home program. The goal of this plan is to ensure that the care you receive is not only aligned with your medical and physical needs but also takes into account your lifestyle preferences, daily routines, and personal goals.

Here’s what a typical personalised care plan includes:

• Your goals: Short- and long-term goals related to your health, wellbeing and independence.

• Care needs assessment: An evaluation of your physical, emotional and social care requirements.

• Services provided: A detailed list of the services covered by your funding, such as personal care, domestic help and medical support.

• Support providers: The names of the service providers, such as home care agencies, medical professionals and allied health workers.

• Care schedule: A plan for when services will be provided, including frequency and timing.

  
  

By clearly defining your needs and the services required to address them, the personalised care plan acts as a roadmap for managing your Support at Home services.

Why Is a Personalised Care Plan Important?

A personalised care plan ensures that you receive the right level of care at the right time. Here are some reasons why creating one is so important:

1. Tailored to Your Specific Needs

Everyone’s situation is different, and a generic care plan may not address all of your unique needs. A personalised plan takes into account your health conditions, preferences, daily routines, and goals. Whether you need assistance with bathing, cooking, or managing a chronic illness, a personalised care plan helps ensure that the services you receive are specifically designed to address your situation.

2. Better Control and Flexibility

With a personalised care plan, you have more control over the services you receive. You can decide which areas of your life require support, how much help you need, and when that help should be provided. If your needs change, the care plan can be adjusted, providing you with flexibility and ensuring that you always have the right support.

3. Maximises Your Funding

By customising your care plan, you ensure that your Support at Home funding is used efficiently. For example, if you need more assistance with medical or therapeutic services and less with domestic support, a personalised care plan can allocate funding appropriately to meet those needs.

4. Promotes Independence and Wellbeing

A well-designed care plan promotes your independence and wellbeing. It can help you maintain a level of autonomy while receiving the support you need. Your plan can include services that enhance both your physical and emotional health, allowing you to remain active, engaged and involved in your community.

How to Create Your Personalised Care Plan

Creating a personalised care plan may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right approach and assistance, it can be a smooth process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a plan that works for you:

Step 1: Assess Your Current Needs

Start by evaluating your current care needs.

Ask yourself questions like:

• What do I need help with daily (e.g., personal care, cooking, cleaning)?

• Are there any medical or health conditions that require specialised care (e.g., physiotherapy, nursing)?

• What are my goals for independence and mobility?

• Are there any social or emotional needs I need assistance with (e.g., companionship, social outings)?

• How often do I need care or assistance?

  
  

It’s helpful to consult with your doctor, family members, or a care coordinator to get a comprehensive understanding of your needs. An official assessment from a care coordinator can also help identify which services are eligible for funding under the Support at Home program.

Step 2: Set Your Goals

Once you’ve assessed your needs, think about your goals.

Goals might include:

• Increasing your mobility and strength through physical therapy.

• Remaining at home for as long as possible with minimal assistance.

• Receiving support to manage a chronic illness or condition.

• Participating in social activities or maintaining relationships with friends and family.

  
  

Setting clear goals helps ensure that the care you receive is purposeful and helps you achieve the best possible outcomes.

Step 3: Choose the Right Services

Next, select the services that best match your needs.

Here are some examples of services you might include in your plan:

• Personal care (e.g., help with bathing, dressing, grooming).

• Household support (e.g., cleaning, meal preparation).

• Clinical and allied health services (e.g., physiotherapy, nursing).

• Social support (e.g., help with attending social events, companionship).

• Transport assistance (e.g., help getting to medical appointments or outings).

  
  

Be sure to prioritise services that are essential for your health and independence while keeping within the limits of your Support at Home funding.

Step 4: Develop a Schedule

Work with your care coordinator to develop a schedule for when services will be provided. This includes:

• The frequency of each service (daily, weekly, or as needed).

• The time of day that services will occur (morning, afternoon, evening).

• Any special considerations or preferences (e.g., a preference for certain days or times for home care).

  
  

Having a clear schedule helps ensure consistency and that your care needs are met without disruption.

Step 5: Regularly Review and Adjust

Your needs will likely change over time. As you experience changes in health or circumstances, it’s important to regularly review and adjust your personalised care plan.

Schedule periodic reviews with your care coordinator to discuss:

• Any changes in your health or daily routine.

• The effectiveness of the services you’re receiving.

• Adjustments to your goals or schedule.

• Any changes to your funding allocation.

  
  

This ongoing process ensures that your care plan stays up to date and relevant to your needs.

Working with Your Care Coordinator

Your care coordinator plays a critical role in creating and managing your personalised care plan. They will help you:

• Assess your needs and goals.

• Develop a care plan that aligns with your preferences and funding.

• Communicate with service providers to implement the plan.

• Review the plan periodically to ensure it continues to meet your needs.

  
  

Open communication with your care coordinator is essential to ensure that the care plan remains effective. Don’t hesitate to share any concerns or request changes if something isn’t working for you.

Final Thoughts...

Creating a personalised care plan is a crucial step in ensuring that you get the most out of your Support at Home funding. It allows you to receive tailored care that meets your unique needs, goals, and preferences, while promoting independence, wellbeing, and a sense of control over your life.

By working closely with your care coordinator, reviewing your plan regularly, and adjusting services as needed, you can ensure that your care remains relevant and effective over time. In our next blog post, we’ll discuss how to manage your Support at Home services during a health crisis or unexpected change.

Stay tuned for more details and feel free to ask any questions to our team by calling 1300 032 175 or by emailing enquiries@rloa.org.au today!