What is a Home Care Package (HCP)?

A Home Care Package (HCP) is a program in Australia that provides government-funded support and services to help older adults live independently in their own homes. It is designed to assist those who require varying levels of support to continue living at home rather than moving into a residential care facility.

Home Care Packages offer a range of personalised services that can be tailored to individual needs. These services may include personal care assistance, nursing, medication management, mobility aids, transport, domestic help, meal preparation, social support, and allied health services.

To access a Home Care Package, individuals must undergo an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) to determine their care needs and eligibility. Once approved, recipients are assigned a specific level of funding based on their assessed care requirements. There are four levels of Home Care Packages available, ranging from basic to high care needs.

Recipients have the flexibility to choose their approved home care provider (also known as an Aged Care Provider) and collaborate with them to develop a personalised care plan. They can also decide how their allocated funds are utilised, ensuring the services received align with their specific goals and preferences.

The primary goal of a Home Care Package is to empower individuals to live independently in their own homes while receiving the necessary support to maintain their wellbeing and quality of life. It offers individuals greater control and choice over their care, enabling them to age in place comfortably and with dignity.

For more information, visit the MyAgedCare website.