Your next step: Ask for a care assessment before they leave hospital
One simple thing first:
Your Guidance
If the older person is in hospital, the discharge planner or social worker can arrange for a simple chat to see what help is best. This will often be an ACAT assessment. This chat is what unlocks government-funded help at home (like cleaning or shower support) or a spot in an aged care home.
Your next 3 steps:
- Tell the hospital staff: 'We will need support at home. Can you please organise a simple chat about our care needs before discharge?'
- Ask for it in writing: Get the discharge summary and any notes about falls or memory. Keep copies.
- Ask about short-term help: 'Is there any temporary help we can have for the first few weeks at home?'
💬 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
Ask the hospital social worker for a My Aged Care referral before you leave.
Next few weeks
An assessor (ACAT) will contact you to organise an assessment at home.
After approval
Choose a provider to start services like shower help or nursing visits.
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.