How to Get the Most Out of Your Home Care Packages

Home care packages differ across the world. For example, in Australia are funded by the government so that older Australians can continue to live independently in their homes. However, in the US they’re only offered by private companies and niche non-profits.

The trick to getting the most out of your home care package is to know what you can use it on and what you can’t. It can generally be spent on well-being services, social services, support services, care services, and a range of nursing services. You can also use your home care package in a limited way for home modifications and in the purchase of equipment, so long as it enables you to live well and safe at home.

Home care package spending is different from one person to the next since everyone has different needs. It is therefore important that your personal care plan is tailored to help you achieve your own goals and needs.

What can you pay for with your Home Care Package?

Some individuals might use all of their funds on care services while others might prefer to make home modifications and purchase equipment to help them to live more independently.

Generally, if you want to buy equipment and make modifications to your home, the request will be reviewed by your provider and another medical professional, such as your physiotherapist or GP. The aim is to make sure that the outcome of the equipment purchase or home modification will support your wellness goals.

For example, a mobility scooter might be an important part of an individual’s independence in that it allows them to get around without asking for help. If the care provider determines as much, then the individual’s home care package can be used to purchase a mobility scooter for the individual.

Services that can be provided under Home Care Package Funding

• Pet care, such as visits to the groomer or vet, or regular walks and other care routines for your pet.
• Cooking together or cooking classes.
• Gym memberships or fitness classes that will be attended with a care worker.
• Visits to your favorite places, such as parks, beaches, and other places of significance.
• Visits to the cinema or library with your care provider.
• Spending time in the garden in the presence of a care worker to ensure your safety while you enjoy your pastime.

What can’t be provided under Home Care Package Funding

There are certain expenses that are not allowed under Home Care Package funding. These include the ones below:

• Your day to day bills, such as your groceries or utilities, are not catered for under your Home Care Package.
• Your monthly rent or your mortgage fees are not provided for under your Home Care Package.
• While one-day trips to your favorite places are provided for under Home Care Package Funding, entire holidays are not, and the cost of holidays does not fall under Home Care Package Funding.
• While visits to the cinema are catered for under Home Care Package Funding, gambling and entertainment are not provided for. 
• Any costs that are already covered by Pharmaceutical Benefits or Medicare are not provided for by Home Care Package Funding.
• Any program that is already subsidized by the Australian Government is not provided for by Home Care Package Funding.

This is a guest blog entry.