The Commonwealth Home Support Program provides government-subsidised, entry-level aged care support in Australia, helping eligible older people with everyday activities so they can continue living safely and independently at home and stay connected with their community. For families exploring aged care services at home understanding how the program works can make it easier to support an older relative, prepare for an aged care assessment and take part in important care decisions.

What Is the Commonwealth Home Support Program?

The programme is intended for older people who can manage many parts of daily life and need a low level of support with certain tasks. Its focus is on maintaining independence and helping people use their existing abilities. The type of assistance a person receives depends on the needs identified through an aged care assessment.

Who Can Receive Support?

Eligibility generally covers people aged 65 or over with care needs. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with care needs may be eligible from age 50. People aged 50 or over who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and have care needs may also be eligible. An aged care assessment identifies suitable support based on individual circumstances.

What Support Is Available?

The programme provides different types of assistance based on assessed needs.

Support may include:

1. Personal Care: Help with bathing, dressing, hygiene and mobility.

2. Household Assistance: Help with routine household tasks.

3. Meals: Assistance with preparing or accessing suitable meals.

4. Transport: Support with travel for appointments and community activities.

5. Social Support: Help with maintaining social contact and community participation.

6. Home Maintenance: Assistance with tasks that help maintain a safe home.

The type of support provided reflects the person’s assessed needs.

How Can Families Access Support?

Access starts through My Aged Care and includes an aged care assessment.

The main steps are:

1. Apply for an Assessment: Apply through My Aged Care.

2. Complete the Assessment: An assessor discusses the person’s needs and circumstances.

3. Receive the Outcome: Eligible people receive information about approved services.

4. Choose a Provider: Compare suitable local providers and arrange approved support.

These steps help connect eligible older people with suitable services.

How Can Family Members Help?

Family members can help an older person discuss daily needs, prepare for an assessment and consider suitable providers. They can also discuss preferences and service arrangements. Involving the older person throughout the process keeps their choices and independence central to care decisions.

What Should Families Know About Services and Costs?

Before arranging Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) services, families can discuss practical details with the older person and provider.

Important points include:

1. Support Needs: Confirm the approved assistance and frequency.

2. Service Availability: Check available services in the local area.

3. Provider Choice: Compare suitable providers and service arrangements.

4. Client Contributions: Discuss the expected contribution towards service costs.

Considering these points can help families make suitable care arrangements.

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Home Support Program provides eligible older Australians with practical support to help them remain independent at home. Families can assist with assessments, discussions and service arrangements while keeping the older person’s needs and preferences central. This approach can help families make informed decisions about suitable support and ongoing care.