What Are In-Home Care Services and How Do They Support Independent Living?

  • 3 mins

HenderCare delivers flexible and professional support for older Australians and people with disabilities across Australia. Our services are designed to help individuals live safely and comfortably in their own homes while maintaining their independence and community connections. We invite you to contact our team to discuss how a personalised support plan can be developed to meet your specific needs. The scope of support is broad and can be tailored to provide assistance exactly where it is needed most.

How Can In-Home Care Improve Quality of Life and Independence? 

In home care services directly enhances quality of life by empowering individuals with choice and control over their daily routines. It allows people to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own home, which is crucial for emotional wellbeing. Independence is promoted by providing the necessary support to overcome daily challenges safely; for example, assistance with mobility can reduce the risk of falls, while nursing care can manage complex health needs at home. This support model fosters autonomy and confidence.

Who Is Eligible to Access Professional In-Home Care Support? 

Eligibility for professional support depends on the funding source. Anyone can access services on a private, fee-for-service basis without needing an assessment. For government-subsidised support, specific eligibility criteria must be met. These criteria are determined through assessments for programs including:

  • The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or a Home Care Package (HCP) for older Australians.
  • The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for people with a permanent and significant disability.
  • Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) programs for eligible veterans and war widows or widowers. An assessment confirms the level and type of support an individual can receive.

What Are the Differences Between Private and Government-Funded In-Home Care? 

The primary difference between these two models is the source of funding and the level of flexibility. Private care is paid for directly by the individual, offers complete choice over services and can typically commence immediately without waiting periods. Government-funded care is subsidised by the Australian Government, requires a formal eligibility assessment and may involve waiting for funding like a Home Care Package to be allocated. Some individuals use private services to supplement their government funding or while waiting for a package to be assigned.

How Do You Choose the Right In-Home Care Provider for Your Needs? 

Choosing a provider for professional in home care services requires careful consideration of several key factors. Firstly, confirm the provider is approved to deliver the services you need, whether through the NDIS, Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission or the DVA. Secondly, enquire about their staff: what are their qualifications, how are they screened and what is the process for matching support workers with clients? It is also important to discuss their approach to care planning to ensure it is collaborative and focused on your personal goals.

Arrange Personalised Support to Suit Your Lifestyle 

To learn more about our flexible care options and how we can assist you, call the HenderCare team on 1300 764 433 or visit our contact page..