Over the next six weeks, Weeroona will be provide the Cowra community with insights and information about all aspects of residential aged care with a focus on informing people about what considerations they'll need to make if considering becoming a permanent or respite (short-term) resident in an aged care home. There are five basic steps to residential aged care.

You will first need a free assessment with a member of an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) in your local area to determine whether you are suitable for permanent or respite care in a residential aged care setting. Your first step to achieving approval is to call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to be referred for a free assessment with an ACAT, who will be able to assist you by providing information on facilities in your area, help you with accessing the care you require and more.

There are many ways of learning about the aged care homes available to you in your area, however some of the most effective ways include asking hospital discharge planners and social workers, asking your GP or medical practice, asking your friends or family about homes have experience with or simply using Google to complete an online search.

Once you have a list of the homes that interest you, make an appointment to tour the facilities. Tours are a great way for you to ask all the questions you have and will allow you to experience what each home offers.

This is often where families can become a little confused, mostly in relation to which fees residents are required to pay. The most important thing to remember is that all aged care homes operate under the Aged Care Act, and fee structures have been set by the Australian Government. To ensure you know what fees you will be required to pay, speak with your local Centrelink office in regard to completing an assessment to determine which fees you need to pay.

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There is no limitation to how many homes a person can apply to, or restrictions on what location you would like to live in, however it's important to be aware that homes have varied room prices and services available.

The aged care homes you speak with will be able to work with you to ensure you find a suitable living arrangement that compliments your care requirements. Most homes have a very simple application process, which includes filling out an application form and providing information about the consumer's care requirements and personal preferences.

Once you have submitted your applications and a home has made their offer, you can arrange an admission date with the home. The home will require your ACAT assessment, doctor preferences, medical records (can be supplied by your medical centre), personal information, Medicare card and pension details along with other key information to ensure your admission proceeds as smooth as possible.