Frequently Asked Questions
Moving into residential aged care is a significant life decision, and families often have many questions about assessments, applications, waiting lists, and costs.
This guide answers the most common questions about residential aged care to help you better understand the process and make confident decisions.
What is an ACAT or ACAS assessment?
An ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) or ACAS (Aged Care Assessment Service in Victoria) assessment is an important step in accessing government-funded residential aged care in Australia. During this assessment, an approved health professional collects from the person to evaluate their care needs, medical condition, mobility, memory, and ability to manage daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals.
The purpose of the assessment is to determine whether residential aged care is appropriate and what level of care is required. Without an approved ACAT or ACAS assessment, a person cannot move into government-subsidised residential aged care.
How do I apply for an ACAT or ACAS assessment?
Applications are made through My Aged Care, either online or by telephone. A referral is created and an assessor will arrange a visit.
How long does it take to get an assessment?
Most assessments occur within 2 to 6 weeks, although urgent hospital referrals are often prioritised and completed more quickly.
What happens during the ACAT assessment?
The assessor reviews health, mobility, cognition, medications, safety, and daily living needs to determine eligibility for aged care services.
Does ACAT approval mean immediate placement?
No. Approval confirms eligibility but does not guarantee immediate placement. You still need to apply to individual aged care homes.
How long does ACAT approval last?
Approvals usually remain valid indefinitely, although reassessment may be required if circumstances change significantly.
Can ACAT approval be reviewed?
Yes. If circumstances change or the outcome seems incorrect, you can request a reassessment through My Aged Care.
Can a hospital arrange an ACAT assessment?
Yes. Hospitals commonly arrange urgent ACAT assessments when discharge planning involves residential aged care placement.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No referral is required. Anyone can contact My Aged Care to request an assessment.
Can family members attend the assessment?
Yes. Family involvement is encouraged to provide accurate information and support the person being assessed.
How do I apply to residential aged care homes?
Applications are submitted directly to individual aged care homes once ACAT approval is granted.
How many homes should we apply to?
Most families apply to between three and six homes to improve the likelihood of receiving an offer.
What documents are required?
Common documents include ACAT approval letters, medical summaries, medication lists, and identification details.
How long does placement take?
Placement time varies widely depending on urgency, preferred location, and availability of suitable rooms.
Can we apply before ACAT approval?
Yes, but admission cannot occur until approval is finalised.
What happens if no rooms are available?
Applicants are placed on waiting lists and contacted when suitable vacancies arise.
Can couples move into care together?
Many homes accommodate couples, although availability varies depending on room types and facility design.
Can we choose which home to move into?
Yes. Families can select preferred homes based on location, reputation, services, and costs.
What personal items can be taken into care?
Most homes encourage residents to bring personal furniture, photos, and belongings to personalise their room.
What happens during admission?
Admission includes signing agreements, completing health documentation, and settling into the allocated room.
What are the main residential aged care fees?
Typical fees include the Basic Daily Fee, Means-Tested Care Fee, and accommodation costs such as RAD or DAP.
What is a RAD?
A Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is a lump sum payment that is fully refundable when the resident leaves care.
What is a DAP?
A Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) is an alternative to paying a lump sum RAD.
Can we pay part RAD and part DAP?
Yes. Many residents use a combination payment method.
Do we have to sell the family home?
No. In many cases the home can be retained, although its value may be assessed in financial means testing.
What is the Basic Daily Fee?
The Basic Daily Fee covers meals, cleaning, laundry, and daily living costs.
What is the Means-Tested Care Fee?
This fee is calculated based on income and assets and contributes towards personal care costs.
Are there caps on aged care fees?
Yes. Annual and lifetime caps limit how much can be paid in means-tested care fees.
What happens if money runs out?
Government subsidies may increase to ensure continued access to care if financial resources are depleted.
What happens to the RAD when the resident leaves?
The RAD is refunded to the resident or their estate, usually within legislated timeframes.
How do we choose the right aged care home?
Consider location, services, staff quality, room types, and feedback from current residents and families.
Can residents leave the home for outings?
Yes. Residents can leave for outings, visits, or holidays if medically appropriate.
Are medical services provided?
Yes. Nursing care is available, and residents usually retain their own general practitioner.
What happens if care needs increase?
Care plans are regularly reviewed and adjusted as needs change.
Can residents change homes?
Yes. Residents can transfer to another home if a suitable vacancy becomes available.
What happens if the resident goes to hospital?
Most homes hold the room for a defined period during hospital stays.
Are visitors allowed anytime?
Most homes encourage regular visiting, subject to safety and infection control requirements.
Can residents keep pets?
Some homes allow pets, although policies vary between providers.
Is dementia care available?
Yes. Many homes provide specialised dementia care units.
What happens if the resident passes away?
The home provides support to families and arranges discharge documentation.
Can residents decorate their rooms?
Yes. Personalising rooms helps residents feel comfortable and settled.
Are activities provided?
Yes. Most homes provide social, physical, and recreational activities.
Is laundry included?
Laundry services are usually included in the Basic Daily Fee.
Are meals included?
Yes. Meals and snacks are included in residential care services.
Can residents bring furniture?
Most homes allow small items of furniture, depending on room size.
Is respite care available?
Yes. Residential respite care provides short-term stays for carers needing temporary support.
What is permanent residential care?
Permanent care is ongoing accommodation and care provided in an aged care facility. Respite care is not ongoing.
Are waiting lists common?
Yes. Popular homes often maintain waiting lists for future vacancies.
Can we inspect homes before applying?
Yes. Tours are encouraged to help families compare options.
Can professionals help with aged care placement?
Yes. Specialist aged care placement advisers assist families with assessments, applications, and financial decisions.