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!

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!