Your next step: Ask for urgent at-home support and safety checks
One simple thing first:
Your Guidance
Frequent falls, confusion with medications, or wandering are all red flags that mean you can get help at home. It's about preventing a crisis before it happens. You can prepare for a conversation with your doctor about falls at AskMyGP.com.au. You can also talk to your pharmacist about medication packaging to make things safer.
To unlock most government-funded help, you'll need a simple chat to see what help you can get. This is often called an ACAT assessment, and it's a key step to getting equipment, home modifications, or help at home.
Your next 3 steps:
- Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 (or ask your GP to refer) and say: 'We have had several falls and are worried about safety at home. We need some support to stay safe.'
- Ask specifically about getting equipment and home modifications, like shower rails, a shower chair, or a personal alarm.
- If the person lives alone, state clearly that you are concerned they are UNSAFE overnight. Using that word matters.
💬 A familiar feeling
“Asking for help felt scary — but it kept Dad at home, not in hospital.”
“Once we spoke to My Aged Care, I realised it’s just support, not giving up.”
Important:
What Happens Next
This week
Book a GP check for balance, vision, and medication review.
Next few weeks
Ask your GP or My Aged Care for a home safety assessment (e.g., rails, alarms).
After approval
Organise help with cleaning or showers while safety changes are installed.
These are typical timeframes – some areas are faster or slower.
You don’t have to say it perfectly. Just read what’s on the screen.
This helps your GP or hospital see the full picture.
Get Help NowGetting support early helps you stay independent longer.
You’re not doing this alone. Asking for help keeps you in control.