This sounds urgent. Here’s what to do right now.
One simple thing first:
Your Guidance
If someone is not safe right now (e.g., they are injured, severely confused, wandering, or the carer cannot physically manage), you should treat this as an emergency.
Your next 3 steps:
- If it’s a medical crisis (like an injury from a fall, sudden severe confusion, or they can't stand up): Call emergency services on 000 or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department.
- Tell the ambulance crew or hospital staff: 'We cannot safely manage this situation at home anymore.' Be very clear.
- At the hospital, insist on speaking to a social worker or discharge planner. Tell them: 'Before you send us home, we need a simple chat about our care needs and for support to be put in place. It is not safe otherwise.'
💬 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
Today
If there is an immediate medical risk, call 000 or go to Emergency.
This week
Once safe, ask the hospital social worker or GP to lodge an urgent My Aged Care referral.
After approval
Arrange short-term care or respite until ongoing services can begin.
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.