Your Guide to the Home Care Package Level 3
Understanding the evolving needs of our elderly relatives is a significant part of providing care. As they age, simple daily tasks can become challenging. Their independence – something they deeply cherish – can then begin to wane.
If you’re seeking a way to support your loved one in their own home, where they are surrounded by familiar comforts and memories, a Government Home Care Package might be the ideal solution. This guide will help you explore the Level 3 package.
What Is a Level 3 Home Care Package?
A Level 3 Home Care Package (HCP) is designed to support older individuals who have intermediate care needs. A government-funded program for Australian residents, Level 3 provides higher support than Level 1 and Level 2. This accommodates those that require more assistance, but do not need full-time residential care.
This care package level aims to enable older adults to maintain their independence and quality of life while living in their own homes. As funding is either partly or fully allocated through the Australian Government’s HCP program, support is accessible and affordable to those eligible for a Level 3 Home Care Package.
What Does a Level 3 Home Care Package Include?
The Home Care Package Level 3 support is tailored for older individuals with intermediate care needs. The intention is to help older people live independently at home. And you might be wondering, "What can I spend my home care package on?" Those who receive a Level 3 Home Care Package can expect it to include:
- Personal care assistance: Personal home care services involve aid with daily personal tasks like bathing, grooming, and dressing. Trained carers provide respectful, dignified assistance to maintain the recipient’s personal hygiene and comfort.
- Nursing care for health management: Clinical care is provided by qualified nurses. This includes wound management, chronic condition monitoring, and medication administration. This work is necessary to maintain the individual’s overall health and manage their specific medical needs.
- Help with household tasks: This service covers regular household chores such as cleaning, laundry, and even basic home maintenance.
- Assistance with meal preparation and nutrition: Carers assist in preparing meals and offer nutritional advice. This helps them receive a diet that’s not only balanced but also matches their health and dietary needs.
- Guidance in medication management: This support ensures medications are taken correctly and on time. It can include organising prescriptions, managing dosages, and monitoring for any potential side effects.
- Support with mobility and transportation: Along with assistance for moving around the home, this includes transportation for appointments, shopping, and social outings.
- Social support: Activities and support are organised to keep the individual socially engaged. This can include assistance with attending events and engaging in their hobbies.
- Access to allied health services: This can cover services like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and podiatry.
- Provision of necessary equipment and minor home modifications: Equipment can include the likes of walking frames and shower chairs, while handrails are an example of home modifications. These provisions enhance both safety and independence at home.
An individual’s specific needs and preferences are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. This guarantees they receive the precise care and support necessary from the services mentioned above.
To determine this, the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) judges the individual and first determines which Home Care Packages Level – 1, 2, 3, 4 – is the best fit. If Level 3 is selected, it’s decided the individual needs a level of support beyond basic care.
Consider Martin, a 79-year-old retiree who has recently been facing more complex health challenges. These challenges include mild mobility issues and a struggle to manage his diabetes effectively. While largely independent, he requires consistent assistance to ensure his wellbeing. This includes help with preparing diabetic-friendly meals, nursing care to manage his medications, and physiotherapy sessions to improve mobility and strength.
Despite these challenges, Martin is keen to stay in his own home, surrounded by familiar comforts and memories. A Level 3 Home Care Package supplies him with the necessary support to maintain his independence and manage his health conditions effectively.
An Explanation of Level 3 Home Care Package Funding and Costs
The Level 3 Home Care Package is funded through a combination of government subsidies and individual contributions. When combined, these funds cover the care services required and the provider’s package management costs.
The Australian Government subsidy differs depending on the Home Care Package. Level 3 Home Care Package funds are as follows:
- Daily government subsidy rate: $107.70
- Fortnightly government contribution: $1,507.80
For example, when comparing Home Care Package Level 3 and 4, the daily subsidy rate jumps to $163.27 for Level 4. This reflects the additional care required.
Note: July 1 marks the annual adjustment of the government’s contribution. As a result, the current figures are accurate as of July 1, 2023.
Individual contributions
The government subsidy can be reduced for those eligible to pay an income-tested care fee. Individuals are expected to contribute to the cost of their care if they can afford to do so. This is split into three parts:
- Basic daily fee: This is a set rate everyone can be asked to pay. The government determines the amount and is a percentage of the single person rate of the basic age pension. As of September 20, 2023, the basic daily fee for a Level 3 package is $12.20.
- Income-tested care fee: Some people may also be required to pay this fee based on their income. Added to the basic daily fee, it is calculated through an income assessment conducted by Services Australia.
- Additional services: If an individual selects additional services not covered by the Home Care Package, they will need to pay for these out-of-pocket.
If you require further assistance about how funding and costs work for your specific case, get in touch, and we can help.
How Many Hours in a Level 3 Home Care Package?
To support people sufficiently, the number of hours of care provided in a Level 3 Home Care Package vary depending on the individual’s needs and the required services. At Care For Family, we are able to offer approximately 18 hours of care and support each fortnight.
Our number of hours is generally higher than other providers for two main reasons.We don’t charge a basic daily care fee and our rates tend to be lower than other providers. This combination means you can make your Home Care Package go even further.
What Other Care Options Are Available?
Other care options include the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).
The NDIS is for those with a permanent, significant disability, with the intention to improve their skills and independence. While NDIS and Home Care Packages serve different purposes, an individual may be eligible for both in certain cases. However, you can only select either an NDIS plan or HCP – not both.
The CHSP is another alternative, generally suited for those who need minor assistance to continue living independently at home. It’s often considered a starting point for aged care services and is less comprehensive than HCP. If you’re unsure about which to select, you can read more here: CHSP vs HCP: Which One Is Right for You?
Selecting a Home Care Package Provider
When selecting a HCP Provider for a Level 3 Home Care Package, choosing a team experienced in aged care is essential. At Care For Family, our trained team specialises in both medical and emotional support. This expertise ensures you or your elderly relative receives the right personalised care in their own home.
Contact us for more information and to discuss your specific needs.