Leaving hospital often brings questions about how care can continue at home. Through the new Support at Home program and other funding options like private care, older Australians can access support for everyday living and clinical support such as nursing services and allied health in the comfort of home, supporting a safer and more confident recovery.
At Catholic Healthcare, our in-home services are designed to make the transition from hospital as smooth as possible. We offer personalised clinical and everyday living support with a compassionate approach that puts each person’s needs first.
Why the journey from hospital to home matters
Hospital discharge does not mean support has to end. In fact, it’s often where the next stage of care begins. Without proper planning, people can feel overwhelmed, especially if they are still healing, adjusting to new medications, or are restricted with carrying out domestic duties.
Clinical support and everyday living support at home can:
- Reduce hospital readmissions
- Promote confidence and independence
- Help manage medications, pain or wounds
- Maintain independence
- Support carers and reduce stress
Flexible ways to access extra support
The Support at Home program, introduced in November 2025, replaced the old Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care programs. It brings together clinical and everyday support services into one flexible model for older Australians.
Under Support at Home, services are grouped into three broad categories: Clinical Care, Independence Services and Everyday Living.
How can In-Home help support Everyday Living?
1. What to expect from In-Home Nursing Care
When a loved one returns home, nursing care can make a meaningful difference in their recovery. At Catholic Healthcare, our nursing care services include:
- Wound care, catheter care and medication administration
- Monitoring vital signs and general health
- Reviewing and managing any hospital discharge instructions
- Liaising with GPs and specialists
- Supporting families with clear updates and guidance
This support is delivered by registered nurses and qualified professionals, coordinated as part of your broader home care plan.
2. What to expect from Independence and Everyday Living support
Support at Home also covers services that promote independence and day-to-day support. This includes personal care, domestic assistance and assistive technology. These services often work alongside clinical support to provide individuals with more holistic care. Based on your needs, services may include:
- Personal care
- Home modifications
- Transport
- Companionship
- Light housekeeping
- Meal preparation
- Light gardening
3. What to expect from Clinical Care and Allied Health
Clinical care and allied health include services that support a person’s medical and clinical needs. Nursing care is a key part of this category, along with some allied health services. Depending on individual needs, services may include:
- Medication management
- Wound care
- Continence care
- Pain management
- Nursing assessments
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Podiatry
- Dietetics and nutrition advice
Many of these services, such as nursing care, are government funded under the new program and do not require a personal contribution.
Adjusting to Changing Needs
Sometimes a person’s condition may change after returning home. Our team regularly reviews each care plan and can organise a reassessment if needs increase. If additional services or supports are required, we work closely with My Aged Care and your family to ensure the right level of care is always in place.
Planning the transition from hospital to home
The earlier you start planning for the return home, the smoother the process will be.
Here’s what you can expect when working with Catholic Healthcare:
1. Initial contact and care planning
When you contact Catholic Healthcare, we’ll talk with you about your goals and current circumstances. If your loved one is in hospital, we can help arrange services to begin once they’re home.
2. In-home visit and service setup
Our team will visit your home to assess your loved one’s needs and confirm the services that best support them. If allied health or equipment is required, we’ll help arrange these as part of your broader care plan.
3. Coordinated support at home
Once services begin, your loved one will receive regular support from our nursing and allied health team.
4. Ongoing review and adjustment
As your loved one recovers, their needs may change. We stay in touch with you and your family and adapt the care plan as needed to ensure safety, independence and wellbeing at home.
Ensure a smooth return to home with Catholic Healthcare
If your parent or loved one is about to leave hospital, now is the time to plan their home care support. With Catholic Healthcare, you can feel confident knowing nursing and allied health services will be delivered with professionalism and compassionate care, all from the comfort of home.
To learn more contact our team today.
Catholic Healthcare is a leading not-for-profit provider of residential care, home care, and retirement living along Australia's east coast. With over 30 years of experience, we offer care and support to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Our services aim to enrich clients' lives by nurturing their bodies, minds, and spirits with a holistic, person-centred approach. We operate 41 residential aged care homes, 13 retirement living communities, and provide home and community services to more than 6,500 clients.
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