What you need to know about ageing in place
Most Australians want to stay in their own home for as long as possible as they age. It’s comfortable, familiar, and keeps you connected to your community. This is known as ageing in place.
But what is ageing in place and how can you plan for it?
Key takeaways
- Ageing in place means staying in your own home as you grow older, with support tailored to your changing needs.
- Government programs like CHSP and HCP help Australians age in place by providing in-home services.
- Planning ahead improves your chances of staying independent and reduces the risk of entering residential aged care.
What does it mean to age in place?
Ageing in place means continuing to live independently in your own home as you grow older, even when faced with health challenges, disability, or reduced mobility. It’s about adapting your environment and support, so you can stay safe and self-reliant.
For example, you might:
- Install grab rails or remove trip hazards
- Choose help with shopping or meal preparation
- Organise transportation alternatives if you stop driving
Planning ahead means you can keep doing what matters most on your own terms.
Why support for ageing in place matters
Getting support in the home isn’t just about comfort, it can help prevent premature entry into residential aged care. A study from researchers at Macquarie University found that every hour of help at home received per week is associated with a 6% lower risk of entry into residential care. The more hours of care services a person receives, the lower the risk of residential care entry.
What aged care support is available to help you age in place?
There are several types of support available to help you age in place, depending on your care needs and personal preferences. Understanding the options can help you find the right fit to age in place confidently.
1. Commonwealth Home Support program (CHSP)
CHSP is the entry-level tier of the aged care system, offering a few hours of weekly support. It isn’t income-tested, but a small co-contribution is required.
CHSP and Home Care Packages both help with everyday tasks to support ageing in place. The difference lies in the level and duration of support.
Best for: Those who only need one or two services a week.
Learn more: About CHSP
2. Home Care Packages (HCP)
HCPs provide a coordinated package of services for more complex or long-term needs. There are four levels of support from basic to high care needs.
Your first step is to check eligibility via My Aged Care. It involves a two-part assessment process that starts with a simple eligibility check that you can do online or over the phone. This is followed by an in-person assessment with an assessor from My Aged Care, that generally takes place in your home.
Once your funding level is approved, a provider like Five Good Friends will help tailor a care plan to keep you safe, independent, and connected. There is a waiting list for accessing HCP, so you can use CHSP funding while you wait.
You might use your package for:
- Bathing or grooming assistance
- Weekly cleaning, shopping or attending community events
Best for: Seniors with moderate to high care needs who want to stay at home with a tailored, longer-term care plan.
3. Privately funded care
If you're ineligible or waiting for government-funded care, private services are a flexible option to help you age in place.
Privately funded home care services aren’t regulated or subsidised by the Australian Government and you have to self-fund the cost of services for all your care needs. Many government-funded home care providers, such as Five Good Friends, also offer privately funded services.
Best for: Those seeking immediate support or fully customisable and self-funded care.
4. Emergency or transitional help
If you can’t wait for help, there are some options including:
- Post-hospital transition care: Call My Aged Care – 1800 200 422
- Emergency respite (e.g., when a carer is unwell): Call Carer Gateway – 1800 422 737
- You can also access private home care immediately
Final thoughts: Plan now to age in place
To truly age in place, you need a plan that adapts with you. Australia’s aged care system is shifting to make this easier, but early planning is key. Whether you need a cleaner once a week or a full care team, help is available.
Five Good Friends is here to support you with information, guidance, and services that help you stay where you feel most at home – your home. Contact our friendly team to learn more.