Signs your loved
one may need a
Support at Home
As our loved ones grow older, staying independent at
home can take a little extra help. While family care is
incredibly meaningful, there may come a time when
some professional support makes all the difference.
As our loved ones grow older, staying independent at home can sometimes take a little extra help. While family care is incredibly meaningful, there may come a time when some professional support makes all the difference - ensuring comfort, safety, and wellbeing every step of the way. The Support at Home program is designed to provide tailored support that meets a person’s individual needs and helping older Australians stay comfortable in their own homes for as long as possible.
So, how do you know when it might be the right time to explore Support at Home.
Here are some signs your loved one may need additional support:
Daily tasks are becoming difficult
If your loved one is struggling with personal care, cooking, or keeping the house clean, they may benefit from services like domestic assistance, meal preparation, or personal care support.
Memory lapses or confusion
Increasing forgetfulness, medication mistakes, or confusion about time and place can signal a need for ongoing support, particularly if it’s affecting their safety or wellbeing.
Recent falls or mobility issues
Unsteadiness, difficulty getting around, or a recent fall can point to the need for mobility aids, home modifications, or physiotherapy services, which can be purchased using Home Care Package funding.
Poor nutrition
Are meals skipped or replaced with unhealthy options? If meal preparation has become a challenge, a Home Care Package can assist with shopping, meal preparation, and nutrition planning.
Neglected home or finances
A normally tidy home becoming cluttered, bills going unpaid, or unopened mail piling up may indicate it's time for outside help.
Increased isolation
Has your loved one withdrawn from social activities or become lonely? Social support and transport services included in Home Care Packages can help them stay connected and engaged.
How to access a Support at Home
The first step is through My Aged Care - the government’s central hub for aged care services in Australia.
They will:
- Conduct a phone screening
- Arrange an in-home assessment
- Determine your loved one’s eligibility and level of care
- Place them on the national waiting list for Support at Home
Click here to read a simple guide that explains home care step by step.
As of March 2025, estimated wait times for Home Care Packages vary based on the assigned level and priority:
Level 1
6 – 9 months
(medium priority)
Level 2
6 – 9 months
(medium priority)
Level 3
9 – 12 months
(medium priority)
Level 4
12 – 15 months
(medium priority)
High-priority cases may experience shorter wait times.
Please note that with the Support at Home (SAH) program starting from 1 November 2025, these estimates might change! Visit our News and Updates page for the latest information or give us a call on 1800 024 000 if you’d prefer to chat with someone.
PlanCare provides ongoing home care services for clients who already have an approved Support at Home Package. Once your loved one receives their package, we’ll work with you to develop a personalised care plan that meets their specific needs, goals, and preferences.
Not sure where to start? We are here to help! While we begin services after your Support at Home Package is in place, we’re more than happy to answer your questions and point you in the right direction.
Contact PlanCare today on 1800 024 000 for guidance or to learn more about how we can support your loved one.
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