What is My Aged Care?
My Aged Care provides funding for Australians over 65. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Summary
My Aged Care is a government program that can provide support to Australians over the age of 65, or over the age of 50 if you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. My Aged Care can provide you with funded support if you have low vision.
Although My Aged Care is not specifically a disability support scheme like the NDIS, people over the age of 65 are able to access government funding and disability support from My Aged Care rather than the NDIS.
What support can I receive from My Aged Care?
My Aged Care can provide you with different types of support depending on your personal circumstances. The entry level support package, also known as the Commonwealth Health Support Program (CHSP), can help with low-level support such as cleaning, cooking, and shopping. It can also include counselling, low vision assessments, or referrals for assistive equipment.
The CHSP runs an initiative named Geat2GO, which provides older Australians with devices, equipment, and assistive technology to help them to live more independently and to enhance daily living. You can be referred to the GEAT program through your My Aged Care assessment.
If you require more than low-level support, the Home Care Package can assist you with higher levels of in-home aged care services. As well as providing in-home care, this package can also help you access assistive technology.
Read this article to learn more about in-home care.
How do I apply for My Aged Care?
To apply for My Aged Care, you will need to register online or over the phone on 1800 200 422. Following your application, you will be contacted by an assessor to arrange an assessment where they will help you make a plan to access the best support suitable for you.
Visit the My Aged Care eligibility webpage to find out more about eligibility.
How does the funding work?
My Aged Care is not fully funded by the government, so their services are only partially subsidised. The amount you could pay depends on the provider that you use, as some providers will require a co-payment whereas other providers, including Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, may not require a co-payment.
If you cannot afford your care costs, you may be eligible for financial hardship assistance.
Visit the My Aged Care understanding costs webpage to learn more about the costs associated with My Aged Care.
For more information
- Visit My Aged Care.
- Read this article to discover more options for funding low vision services and aids.
- Read this article to find out information about at-home care services.
- Always speak to your GP and eye care professional about the best treatment options for you.
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