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!

05. Tips for Effectively Managing Your Support at Home Funding

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.

Tips for Effectively Managing Your Support at Home Funding

Managing your Support at Home funding doesn’t have to be overwhelming!

Whether you are just starting out or looking to get more value from your current services, knowing how to stay on top of your budget can make all the difference. In today's blog, we will share practical tips to help you confidently manage your funding, prioritise your care needs, and avoid any unexpected surprises along the way.

From tracking your expenses to making the most of your care coordinator’s support, these strategies will empower you to get the best possible care — without the stress.

Let’s dive in!

1. Keep Track of Your Budget and Expenses

One of the first steps in managing your funding is understanding your budget. You need to know:

• How much funding you have available.

• Which services are covered.

• How much you can allocate to each service.

Create a simple budget or use an online tool to track your spending each month. This will help you avoid overspending and make adjustments if necessary. For example, if you have unspent funds in one category (like personal care) but are running low in another (like allied health), you can reallocate funds, if possible, to ensure you get the care you need.

2. Prioritise Your Needs

Funding may not cover every service you want, so it's essential to prioritise your care needs. For example:

• If you require regular nursing visits to manage a medical condition, those services may take priority over something like additional cleaning services.

• If your care needs change over time, it’s crucial to re-assess your priorities and adjust your funding allocation accordingly.

By staying flexible and reassessing your needs regularly, you can make sure that the most important services are always covered.

3. Review Your Service Agreements Regularly

As you begin using your funding, it’s important to review your service agreements regularly. Ensure that the services provided align with the budget you’ve set and the services you initially agreed upon. Sometimes, you might be billed for services you didn’t expect or use, so staying on top of the details will help prevent unexpected costs.

Check for:

• Additional charges that may apply, such as service setup fees, extra visits, or specialised treatments.

• Service changes that may result in different costs (e.g., if the provider increases rates or changes the scope of services).

• Unused funds in specific categories, which may be transferred to another area of care if necessary.

• Regular reviews also help ensure that your service providers are meeting the standards and requirements that were initially agreed upon.

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Several online tools and apps can help you manage your Support at Home funding.

Many providers offer portals where you can:

• Track your spending: Monitor how much of your allocated funding has been used and how much remains.

• Set reminders: Stay on top of appointments, service review dates, or funding renewals.

• Communicate with your provider: If there’s a concern about overspending or needing to adjust the funding, many systems allow for easy communication with your care coordinator.

If your service provider doesn’t have an online portal, you can create your own system using simple apps like spreadsheets, budgeting apps, or even calendar reminders.

5. Communicate Regularly with Your Care Coordinator

Maintaining clear and regular communication with your care coordinator or the person managing your services is crucial. If you're unsure about how your funding is being used, have concerns about the cost of services, or need to make changes to your care plan, your care coordinator can be an invaluable resource.

Some ways to keep the conversation open and productive:

• Ask for regular updates on your remaining funding balance.

• Request assistance if you’re unsure about how to allocate funds across services.

• Discuss any changes in your care needs and how those might affect your budget.

A good care coordinator will help you navigate changes and ensure that you’re making the most of the funding you have.

Other Considerations for Managing Your Funding

6. Stay Informed About Program Changes

Funding guidelines and eligibility criteria for the Support at Home program can change over time. Stay informed about any changes that may affect your funding. You can do this by:

• Checking the official program website or contacting your service provider for updates.

• Reading newsletters or receiving notifications from the program administrators.

• Consulting with a financial advisor who specialises in aged care if you need help understanding the implications of policy or funding changes.

7. Consider Additional Funding Options

In some cases, you might have additional sources of funding that can complement the Support at Home program.

For example:

• Private health insurance: Some policies may cover services not included in the program.

• Veteran or disability benefits: If applicable, these can add extra financial support for your care.

• Charities and community organisations: Some local organisations provide grants or subsidies to assist with care.

Exploring other funding options can give you additional flexibility and ensure you receive the care you need without financial strain.

Final Thoughts…

Managing your Support at Home funding effectively is crucial to ensuring that you receive the best possible care while staying within your allocated budget. By staying organised, prioritising your needs, regularly reviewing service agreements, and communicating effectively with your care coordinator, you can make the most of the program.

In our next blog post, we’ll explore the importance of creating a personalised care plan and how to ensure that your Support at Home services are tailored to meet your unique needs. Stay tuned for more tips to make the most of your care journey!

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!

04. Choosing the Right Service Provider for Your 'Support at Home' Package

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.

Choosing the Right Service Provider for Your Support at Home Program

Selecting the right service provider is one of the most important decisions when navigating the Support at Home program. The right provider can make a significant difference in the quality of care you or your loved ones receive, ensuring that needs are met with professionalism, compassion and respect.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing a service provider, the factors to consider and what to expect when entering into a care agreement.

Why Is Choosing the Right Service Provider Important?

The Support at Home program provides a wide range of services, from personal care and domestic help to clinical and allied health support. These services are delivered by various providers, each with its strengths and areas of expertise. Because your choice of provider will directly impact the quality and consistency of care you receive, it’s essential to make a choice that aligns with your needs and expectations.

A good provider will not only be skilled in delivering the required services but will also understand the importance of building trust and ensuring clear communication between you, your family, and your care team. By choosing a reputable and reliable provider, you’re ensuring a better quality of life and care for you or your loved ones.

What to Look for When Choosing a Service Provider

When choosing a service provider under the Support at Home program, here are some key factors to consider:

1. Experience and Qualifications

You’ll want to choose a provider that has experience in delivering the specific services you require. For example:

• If you need nursing care, ensure the provider has qualified registered nurses who are experienced in the required medical field (e.g., wound care, medication management, etc.)

• If you need help with personal care or domestic assistance, the provider should have a skilled team of care workers trained to handle those needs with respect and professionalism.

Don’t hesitate to ask about the qualifications of the service providers and check their licenses and certifications. Some services, like nursing care, require specific training and regulatory compliance, so it’s important to verify that the provider meets the standards for the services they are offering.

2. Reputation and Reviews

Take time to research a provider’s reputation and look for reviews from others who have used their services. You can:

• Ask for referrals from friends, family, or other people who have had experiences with similar care providers.

• Check online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the quality of service, reliability and professionalism.

• Visit their website to learn more about their mission, values and client satisfaction.

A provider with a strong reputation and positive reviews is more likely to provide the care and service you expect.

3. Availability and Flexibility

Some service providers have limited hours of operation, while others offer 24/7 care. The provider you choose should be able to meet your schedule and accommodate your needs, whether that involves:

• Providing care during specific times of the day (e.g., morning assistance or evening support).

• Offering flexible scheduling for domestic assistance or healthcare appointments.

• Responding to emergency care situations or changing care requirements.

When evaluating a provider, be sure to confirm their availability and flexibility. If your care needs change over time, it’s essential that the provider can adjust the care plan to meet your new circumstances.

4. Communication and Coordination

Good communication is critical for ensuring a smooth and effective caregiving experience. You will want to choose a provider who:

• Clearly explains the services they offer and the costs associated with them.

• Maintains regular communication with you, your family, and any other involved healthcare professionals.

• Can provide a care coordinator who is the point of contact for any questions or concerns.

Ask how the provider keeps track of your care plan and how they manage updates, especially if changes are needed. A care coordinator or case manager can help ensure that your services are consistent and that you’re always aware of what to expect.

5. Personalisation of Care Plans

Each individual’s needs are different, and a one-size-fits-all approach to care doesn’t always work. Look for a provider who offers personalised care plans, tailored to your specific needs, preferences and goals.

Personalisation can involve:

• Assessing your unique physical, emotional and social needs.

• Setting up regular check-ins to evaluate progress and make adjustments.

• Offering services that fit within your budget while still meeting your care requirements.

  
  

You should feel that your care plan reflects your individual situation, rather than being treated as just another case.

What to Expect When Entering a Care Agreement

Once you’ve chosen a provider, it’s time to enter into a care agreement. This agreement sets the terms and conditions of the services you’ll receive under the Support at Home program.

Here is what to expect:

1. Clear Service Delivery Outline

Your care agreement should clearly outline:

• The services provided, such as personal care, nursing, or allied health services.

• The frequency and duration of each service (e.g., daily visits for personal care or weekly visits for physiotherapy).

• The cost structure and how the provider will invoice you or bill your funding.

• This transparency ensures that there are no surprises when it comes to what’s covered and what’s not.

2. Assessment and Care Plan

In many cases, your provider will conduct an initial assessment to determine the scope of services needed.

This assessment may include:

• Health evaluations (for clinical care services).

• Home safety assessments (for domestic assistance and mobility support).

• Personal preferences to ensure care is tailored to your needs.

The provider will use this assessment to create a personalised care plan that fits your goals and preferences. The plan will evolve as your needs change, so it’s important to have open communication with your provider about any adjustments.

3. Regular Reviews

A reputable service provider will schedule regular reviews to assess the effectiveness of the care plan and make any necessary changes.

These reviews can help:

• Ensure the services continue to meet your needs.

• Track progress toward health and wellness goals.

• Adjust services based on changes in your condition or circumstances.

4. Service Monitoring

Expect the provider to monitor the quality of service being provided.

This can include:

• Feedback requests: They might ask you or your family to provide input on the quality of the care.

• Regular check-ins: Care managers may check in to see if there are any concerns or areas for improvement.

Monitoring ensures that you are getting the best possible care and that any issues are addressed quickly.

Final Thoughts... Choosing the right service provider for your Support at Home program is critical to ensuring that you receive the care and support you need. By considering the factors we’ve discussed such as experience, reputation, availability, communication and personalisation, you can make an informed choice that enhances your well-being.

Once you’ve selected a provider, entering into a care agreement will formalise your care plan and help ensure that your needs are met effectively and efficiently. In our next blog post, we’ll delve into how to effectively manage and track your Support at Home funding to ensure that you make the most of the services available to you. Stay tuned for more tips on navigating your care journey!

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!