Respite care
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Rest, rejuvenate and recuperate
Respite care is short-term accommodation in a secure residence, supported by specialist nursing care. It provides an opportunity for carers of older or unwell people to take a break for a few weeks at a time.
Respite is also available for when an older person is simply unwell or needs extra care that friends or relatives can’t provide – while recuperating from an illness or hospital stay for example. Respite care is a great way to trial residential aged care before making that decision to move in for permanent care.
We’ll do everything we can to meet your loved one’s regular home routine. We warmly welcome visitors, including friends and grandchildren.
Contact us today to find out how you can access up to 63 days of subsidised respite care in a financial year.
Respite ticks all the boxes
Short-term respite is available in all McKenzie homes, where you will experience quality care within happy and supportive communities that offer:
- Modern facilities and technology
- Professionally prepared, nutritious meals (with plenty of variety)
- Organised activities, appropriate exercise and entertainment
- Qualified nursing staff on-site 24-hours-a-day
- Socialisation
- Peace of mind
What you need to know to access respite care
- An assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) is required. This helps to determine the most appropriate level of care and identify the residences that can best meet your loved one’s needs. A doctor, caregiver or family members can make a referral to an ACAT.
- Respite is a short-term care option. The holder of an ACAT assessment is entitled to 63 days of respite care per financial year at any Commonwealth-funded residential aged care facility. Extensions may be granted.
- We’re here to help with the application process. Once you have decided to proceed with respite care with us, we will discuss all of your needs and requirements, including agreed dates, and put together a Respite Agreement. We can also help you with application forms and any questions you may have.
Government funding assistance is available
Current holders of a Department of Veteran Affairs card can apply to the Department for up to 28 days of funding per financial year, to help cover the cost of respite care. In most States of Australia, the Commonwealth Care Respite Centre may, with prior approval, also help contribute to the daily cost of respite care. To find your nearest centre, please visit the Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre website.
