Residential Aged Care Process

Where to begin

Helping to make the entry process easier

We understand that finding the right aged care or senior living residence can be quite stressful and confusing, especially if it is unexpected. We genuinely want to make your experience with Vacenti as easy as possible so that you can make the decision that is right for you.

Rest assured our compassionate staff will patiently guide you through the process every step of the way.

There are a number of steps you need to follow to gain approval to enter a Commonwealth funded aged care home. Once you have decided aged care is the right option this step-by-step guide explains the entire process.

Step 1 - Assessing your eligibility

To find out if you are eligible for Australian Government support for residential aged care, you will need to be assessed by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Your local GP can arrange for a referral to the assessment team nearest to you.

The ACAT assessment is completed by a team of experienced health professionals. They provide information, advice and assistance and recommend the most appropriate care option for you. This assessment determines your eligibility to enter residential aged care.

Step 2 - Finding a suitable Residence

Once you have been assessed by ACAT as being eligible for residential aged care, you can start looking for suitable care and accommodation. When looking at aged care homes, it is important to understand what type of care you require, the services you are seeking and your preferred location.

At Vacenti, we have a range of both accommodation and service alternatives designed to cater for varying needs. We provide standard care and services including dementia-specific care and respite care (site specific) and offer additional and extra services to enhance your lifestyle choices.

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Step 3 - Fees and Charges

The Australian Government provides funding to aged care homes to assist with the cost of your care. However, the Government expects those who can afford it to contribute to the cost of their care as well. There are four main payment components:
Basic Daily Fee – Set at 85% of the Aged Care Pension by the Australian Government even if you are not on a pension
Means Tested Fee – also set by the Australian Government
Accommodation Payment – set by the operator and approved by the Department of Health
Extra or Additional Service Fees – set by the operator for a higher class accommodation and/or additional services. 

Fees and Charges

Financial Advice

  • Determine whether you need to sell the family home
  • Assess options on how best to fund accommodation costs
  • Understand Centrelink obligations and maximise any benefits
  • Assist with liaising with the Aged Care home on payment options
  • Structure assets to support lifestyle and other care expenses
  • Ensure Estate Planning reflects your loved ones wishes

Step 4 - Applying for a new home

We recommend that you visit a range of homes before making your decision. That way you have a good understanding of all your options. Remember you can apply to as many locations as you wish. If you would like to apply to a Vacenti home, please contact us for an Application Pack.

When a Vacenti home which suits your individual requirements becomes available, our friendly Admissions Team will contact you or your representative.

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Step 5 - Moving in

At Vacenti, we completely understand that moving into residential care can be a very emotional time. We go to great lengths to provide caring support for both the new resident and their family during the entire process.

Our person-centred focus means we make sure we understand every new resident’s needs and life history. This is an important initial step that forms the foundation for establishing our care and lifestyle plans. We do these together as part of our ongoing, collaborative partnership.

When you are settling in, we encourage you to personalise your suite with some of your own furnishings, photos and your favourite recliner. We want to make you feel as comfortable as possible.

We are here to help and would love the opportunity to tell you more about living in a Vacenti community. Please don’t hesitate to phone, email or visit us in person at any of our residences or at our corporate office at Upper Mt Gravatt.

Let us help you

We hope you do not feel overwhelmed by the information involved with making this transition. Most people find it very helpful to talk through it with us over the phone or in person. Please get in touch so we can help you through it and make sure everything is crystal clear.

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