As a person gets older, their needs change. Daily tasks become difficult. Their independence can lessen. There are ways to help your loved ones stay comfortable and independent in their home.
You can do this with a Government Home Care Package. This guide looks at the highest level: Level 4.
A Level 4 Home Care Package is the highest tier of in-home support under the Australian Government’s aged care system. This package level is for older people with complex care needs and offers substantial assistance, allowing them to live independently in their own homes.
Under Level 4, many services are tailored to a person’s unique needs. Despite this, support remains both affordable and accessible for those eligible. It is funded by the Australian Government, fully or partially, through their HCP program.
Here is a breakdown of what Level 4 Home Care Packages can include:
To determine which of the Home Care Packages Level 1-4 fit best with an individual, the Age Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assesses their specific requirements and preferences. The individual requires substantial, high-level support if the assessment shows that an ACAT Home Care Package Level 4 is needed.
Take the case of Margaret, an 85-year-old widow with significant health and mobility challenges. These include severe arthritis and early signs of dementia. Her condition needs extensive assistance to ensure her safety and wellbeing. This includes help with daily personal and household tasks, like bathing and meal preparation, and regular nursing care to manage her medications.
Despite these needs, Margaret strongly prefers to remain in her own home, a place filled with happy memories of her family. A Home Care Level 4 Package gives her the support to live as independently as possible.
Like other levels of home care, Level 4 is funded through a mix of government subsidies and individual contributions. Here’s a breakdown of the Home Care Package Level 4 funding:
Note: Home Care Package funds are revised annually on July 1. The current figures are based on rates from July 1, 2023.
In addition to government funding, people may also contribute to their care costs. This depends on their financial capacity, covered under the following criteria:
Would you like to learn more about how this money can be spent? Please read our guide to what you can spend your care package on.
A common query is “How many Level 4 Home Care Package hours are provided?” However, there is no definitive answer as this depends entirely on the HCP Provider’s fees and the individual’s support needs.
If you were to use Care For Family as your provider, the level of care generally equates to 13.5 hours per week. Other providers often provide fewer hours of care because of their higher fees.
The differences between the levels of home care can be confusing. Level 3 and Level 4 are similar in their descriptions and structure. The main difference between them is the amount of care given. A Level 3 care plan is for intermediate needs, while Level 4 offers more in-depth, high-level support. This is shown in the increased care fees and funds for Level 4. Lower levels of support are available through Level 1 and Level 2 HCPs.
Unsure if a Home Care Package fits your needs? An alternative option is the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS caters to those with permanent and significant disabilities, aiming to enhance their skills and independence. While the NDIS and Home Care Packages have different aims, some may qualify for both. Just note someone cannot be eligible for both at the same time.
The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is another alternative. This is for those who need minor assistance for independent living. It’s often viewed as the first step in aged care. Our CHSP vs HCP guide tells you more about the differences between them.
It’s crucial that you choose a Provider that offers excellent value for money to get the most out of the funding you or your loved one receives. At Care For Family, our expertise in aged care sets us apart. Our skilled team provides medical and emotional support, and we can also help ensure your package funding is correct and you get the proper government contribution.
Reach out today for detailed information on our home care package services and to discuss your specific care needs. Click here to learn more about our services.