Caring for a loved one at home can be rewarding but it also comes with responsibility. Respite care provides important relief for both the carer and the person receiving care. With the introduction of the Support at Home program, there are now more options for respite, designed to suit individual needs and situations.
At Catholic Healthcare, we support older Australians with reliable, compassionate home care, including respite tailored to your goals.
Respite and the new Support at Home program
Respite care provides short-term support for older people while giving their carer a planned break. It can take place at home or in a day respite centre setting. Under the Support at Home program, respite is more flexible and better integrated with your broader support plan.
If you’re new to the concept, we’ve covered the types, timing and benefits of respite in more detail in our blog on Why You Should Consider Respite Care.
Types of respite available under Support at Home
Respite under the new Support at Home model is designed to suit a range of needs and preferences. It also sits under one unified system to ensure you or your loved ones have an easier time understanding and accessing the support you need.
Depending on your goals, you may be eligible for one or more of the following:
In-home respite
A care worker visits your home and provides support while your usual carer takes time away. This could include help with personal care, meals, light housekeeping or companionship. It allows the person receiving care to remain in familiar surroundings while the carer rests or attends to other commitments.
Centre-based or community respite
This involves attending a local day centre or community-based program where you can socialise, participate in activities and social outings or receive support in a group setting. It gives carers daytime relief while providing engagement and supporting independence by providing structured support.
These two options can be arranged through our home care teams as part of your Support at Home care plan.
How to access respite care
Here’s how to arrange respite care under Support at Home:
- Get Assessed through My Aged Care
An aged care assessment will determine the type and level of support you or your loved one is eligible for, including respite.
- Discuss respite with your care team
If you already receive aged care services from Catholic Healthcare, we can help you explore accessing respite options that best fit with your existing care plan.
- Include respite in your care planning
Respite is part of the broader Support at Home program categorised under independence services. It should be built into your plan proactively, rather than just as a last-minute option.
- Understand your funding and contributions
Some respite services are fully government subsidised. In other cases, you may be asked to contribute to the cost, depending on your circumstances. Self-funded services or privately paid options also give you the flexibility to choose the care and support when you need it, with no assessment required.
Things to consider
When planning respite options, it also helps to think about:
- Transport options: This is a good alternative to get to and from day respite centres. Transport options are available under Support at Home (SAH) or the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) as well as privately paid services.
- Timing: Consider selecting regular days to attend a day centre, assisting with strengthened social connections and increased cognitive function.
- Location: Consider whether in-home (day, evening or 24/7) or day respite at a nearby location will be more suited.
- Duration: Day respite can range from a few hours a day to multiple days a week. In-home day, overnight or 24/7 respite provides support tailored to your needs, whether it’s social connection, personal care, or help around the house.
- Cost: Understand what is covered and whether a contribution is needed.
- Review: Revisit your plan regularly as needs and routines change.
We're here to help
At Catholic Healthcare, we’re here to help you access the right respite care under the Support at Home program. Whether you’re caring for a loved one or receiving care yourself, we can help you plan and feel supported every step of the way.
To learn more, speak with a member of our team on 1800225474 or get in touch here.
About Catholic Healthcare
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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