Frequently Asked Questions

Q, I am new to aged care. Where do I start?
If you need some help around the house or think it’s time to look into aged care facilities,the My Aged Care website is a good introduction to the basics of aged care.

Q. How do I know if I need to look at moving into care?

This is never an easy decision to make. If you need some help at home or are considering moving into an aged care facility, you may first need a free assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).
A member of an ACAT will talk to you about your current situation and work out if you are eligible to receive government subsidised aged care services.

Q. What is an aged care assessment?
An assessment is an evaluation of your situation by a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).  ACAT are health care professionals who specialise in senior care. They will visit you and ask questions about your life and lifestyle to determine the best possible care options for you. These assessments are free.

Q. What if I only need care for a short time?
This is commonly known as respite care, which UPA can provide Residential Aged Care Facilities. Respite may be required for a number of reasons including

• Trying out a home before making a decision to move permanently.
• A carer or support person might be going away on a holiday or unavailable for a period of time.
• In emergency situations

The Government funding is available, subject to an ACAT to support respite for a number of weeks throughout the year or you may choose to pay privately. Respite needs to be booked well in advance, so it is best to contact the facility of your choice as early as practicable to secure a place.

Q. What is the quality of care and staff working in Residential Aged Care Facilities?

Every registered residential aged care facility in Australia is subject to an accreditation process conducted by the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission, the national regulator of aged care services, to ensure they meet a set of legislated standards. The facility must pass compulsory assessments in order to operate.

At UPA we pride ourselves on the quality of care in our residential aged care facilities. The health, safety and wellbeing of our residents is always our highest priority, and all facilities have successfully had their accrediataion renewed following recent assessments.  Our staff are trained to a high standard and live by our values of compassion, respect, inclusiveness, kindness, and integrity.

Q. What kind of personal care can I expect to receive?

Every person is different and the care you receive should be based on your individual needs. This is something you should always discuss in detail with your intended provider and should not just include your clinical care needs. Be sure to talk about the activities you like to do, any community ties you have and want to maintain, what you like to eat and who your family and friends are, just to name a few.

Q. Should I consider an Enduring Power of Attorney?
An Enduring Power of Attorney is a legal document that appoints someone else (the attorney) to act on your behalf regarding financial, medical or lifestyle matters and property if you do not have the capacity to manage or understand these matters. You can get advice about preparing a power of attorney from a solicitor, a community legal centre, a state trustee company or your local magistrate’s court.

Q. Where do I go to get more information on aged care facilities?
The My Aged Care website (myagedcare.gov.au), allows you to review all residential aged care facilities in detail including the type of rooms available, pricing and care services offered. However you should always visit the facilities and meet the staff to be certain the accommodation will suit you. At UPA we make a point of inviting you to attend a pre-entry appointment with our care team members to ensure we are able to meet your care and service expectations

Q. How much will it cost?

The My Aged Care site has a Fee Estimator for people applying for a Home Care Package or a place in an aged care home. Keep in mind this is only an estimate.

The cost of residential aged care consists of 3 components, a basic daily fee, means tested fee and an accommodation cost. For further information on aged care costs please click here Residential Aged Care Costs.