Deciding when to bring extra support into the home isn’t always easy. For many families, it’s a decision filled with emotion, uncertainty and lots of questions.
You might be noticing small changes—things taking a little longer than they used to, or tasks that now feel more tiring. Or perhaps a recent hospital stay or health issue has made everyday life more challenging. Whatever the reason, recognising the signs early can make a big difference to safety, independence and peace of mind—for everyone involved.
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to take that next step, you’re not alone. Let’s walk through some of the common signs and how Home Care can help.
Signs it may be time for Home Care
Sometimes the changes are gradual, and other times they happen quite suddenly. Here are a few common signs that in-home aged care support may be worth considering:
- Struggling with personal care, such as bathing, dressing or grooming
- Difficulty managing medications safely or remembering doses
- Reduced mobility, unsteadiness or frequent falls
- Skipping meals or struggling to prepare food
- Feeling lonely, withdrawn or less socially connected
- A home that’s becoming harder to maintain or feels less safe
- Increasing reliance on family or friends for day-to-day support
- Challenges following a hospital discharge or managing ongoing health conditions
If you notice any of these changes in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to explore what aged care support is available at home.
Benefits of Home Care
Home care services can help older Australians stay independent for longer while ensuring they receive the support they need. Some of the key benefits include:
- Safety and comfort at home: Receive help with tasks like showering, mobility and meal preparation in a familiar setting.
- Support tailored to your needs: Services are based on individual preferences and can include nursing care, allied health, transport, cleaning and more.
- Improved wellbeing: Regular visits from care workers or nurses provide not just practical help, but also companionship and peace of mind.
- Flexible and scalable support: As needs change, care can be increased or adjusted.
- Family reassurance: Knowing someone is checking in, managing care and providing professional support reduces stress for everyone involved.
How to get started
Getting started with in-home aged care begins with a simple conversation. If you’re unsure where to being:
1. Start with an honest conversation
Talk with your family or GP about what changes you’ve noticed and what support might help.
2. Contact Catholic Healthcare
Our team can explain the available options, answer questions, and help you register with My Aged Care if needed.
3. Organise an assessment
An assessment team from My Aged Care will determine eligibility and care needs.
4. Build your care plan
Once approved, Catholic Healthcare works with you to develop a care plan that supports your needs and goals at home.
How Catholic Healthcare can help
As a not-for-profit aged care provider with decades of experience, Catholic Healthcare offers compassionate, high-quality home care services across New South Wales and South East Queensland.
Our team is here to guide you through the transition to home care. We provide:
- Personalised care plans tailored to your goals and lifestyle
- Qualified and caring team members to support daily living, nursing and allied health needs
- Guidance in understanding the new Support Home Program, which replaced Home Care Packages in November 2025.
- Transparent information about what services are available, what is funded, and how to access them
Whether you’re considering home care for yourself or someone close to you, Catholic Healthcare is here to help you feel informed, supported and ready to take the next step.
If you’d like to learn more or explore what’s available through the Support at Home program, get in touch with our team today.
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.
To learn more about our initiatives, programs, and services, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.