An older woman with her adult daughter

Recognising when your parent needs in-home support can be challenging, but early intervention helps maintain their independence and safety. At Holdsworth Aged Care, we guide families through this important decision-making process. 

  

Warning signs your parent may need support 

  • Physical changes often provide the first clues that your parent may need additional support. Watch for decreased agility and mobility due to ageing, stroke, or chronic conditions, as well as frequent falls or unexplained bruises. Difficulty with personal care, grooming, weight loss, mood alterations, and changes in sleep patterns are also important indicators.
  • Daily living challenges become more apparent as independence decreases. Your parent may struggle with staying on top of bills, have difficulty taking medications correctly, or show increased forgetfulness and memory loss. Neglected household tasks, poor cleaning standards, and an unkept home exterior with overgrown lawns and overlooked repairs are visible signs that help is needed. 
  • Social and emotional changes are equally significant warning signs. Parents may become noticeably less active and social than they used to be, withdrawing from previously enjoyed activities. Any sudden or significant changes in behaviour, physical function, appearance, cognition, memory, or judgment should prompt consideration of in-home support services. 

  

Types of in-home support services 

Clinical supports and personal care services form the foundation of in-home support, including nursing care, allied health services, assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming. These services also encompass medication management and support, mobility support and fall prevention, plus health monitoring and nursing care to ensure your parent’s wellbeing.

Everyday living support services help maintain a safe and comfortable home environment. This includes domestic assistance and cleaning, meal preparation and delivery, laundry services, as well as shopping assistance to ensure your parent’s daily needs are met. Home maintenance and repairs are also available to keep the home safe and accessible.

Independence support and companionship services address the emotional wellbeing of your parent. These services provide social support, conversation and emotional support, assistance with hobbies and interests, transport to appointments and social activities, and digital education and support to help them stay connected with family and friends. Respite care is also available to support family carers.

Choosing the right provider 

Research and credentials are essential when selecting an in-home care provider. Always check staff qualifications and training, request references, and ensure compliance with aged care standards. This due diligence protects your parent and gives you peace of mind. 

Service flexibility is crucial for meeting your parent’s changing needs. Assess available service hours and scheduling options, consider customisation possibilities for care plans, and evaluate the provider’s ability to adjust services as needs evolve. Review their emergency response procedures to ensure comprehensive support. 

Cost and funding considerations require careful planning. Understand pricing structures and payment options, explore government funding through Support at Home, and plan for future care needs and associated costs. This financial planning ensures sustainable care arrangements.

Support at Home provides:

  • Eight levels of ongoing support based on individual needs, with quarterly budgets
  • Clinical supports (such as nursing and allied health services) with no participant contributions
  • Independence support (such as personal care, social support, and transport) with moderate contributions
  • Everyday living support (such as domestic assistance, meals, and home maintenance) with higher contributions

Making the decision together 

Start conversations early and involve your parent in decision-making. Focus on maintaining their independence while ensuring safety and wellbeing. Consider a gradual introduction of services, beginning with the most pressing needs.

Contact Holdsworth Aged Care today on 1300 882 962 or agedcare@holdsworth.org.au to discuss your parent’s needs and explore how our in-home support services can help your family navigate this important transition with confidence.