Plan ahead

Planning ahead for your aged care needs can help you stay independent and in control of your future – rather than making difficult decisions in the middle of a crisis. At BlueCare, we’re here to help you navigate the journey with care, confidence and support.

Questions to consider

Even if you’re managing well now, it’s worth thinking about:

• Would you prefer to stay at home, or consider retirement living or residential aged care?
• Do you expect family support, or would you prefer care from a professional?
• Would respite care be helpful from time to time?
• What are your wishes if your health changes and you can’t make decisions for yourself?

Formalising your wishes through an Advance Health Directive and appointing an Enduring Power of Attorney can ensure your choices are respected. It’s also a good time to update your will.

Where are you at now?

Take a moment to assess your current health, living situation and mobility:

• Could you manage your home if stairs became difficult?
• Would you need help getting to appointments if you stopped driving?
• Could your bathroom be made safer with simple modifications like rails or a shower chair?

Small changes can make a big difference to your quality of life and safety at home.

Explore your options before a crisis

When things go wrong, it can be hard to know where to turn. Being familiar with your options now means you’ll be better prepared. Home care services can include:

• Cleaning, meal preparation and transport
• Personal care and medical support
• Social activities and community connections
• Respite care to give carers a break

You might also explore government support options through My Aged Care, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or a Home Care Package.

Take small steps towards independence

You don’t need to wait until things become difficult. Small steps today can support your independence tomorrow:

• Arrange handrails or safety alarms
• Get support from an in-home physiotherapist or podiatrist
• Seek dietary advice or voice strengthening exercises
• Remove trip hazards around your home
• Access allied health services like physiotherapy, exercise physiology, occupational therapy and podiatry to help you to maintain your mobility.

Starting the conversation with loved ones

Talking about aged care isn’t always easy – for older people, it may trigger fears of dependency; for families, it can bring feelings of guilt. But opening the conversation early makes all the difference.

• Choose a quiet, respectful moment to talk face-to-face
• Be patient and sensitive to your loved one’s concerns
• Focus on the positives – more support can mean more independence
• Encourage your loved one to get involved in community or social groups

Home care services can actually strengthen relationships – helping families worry less and spend more quality time together.

Let’s start the conversation today on 1300 258 322. Reach out to our team to learn more about planning for aged care support.