STEP 3
How do I get an aged care (ACAT) assessment?
What is involved in the Assessment?
An assessment is needed to:
- have respite care in an aged care home (nursing home)
- access transition care (a temporary stay after or sometimes before a time in hospital)
Plus:
- receive aged care services through a Home Care Package
What is involved in an assessment?
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View transcript of video here
The aim is to understand your situation and needs fully, so assessors will look at various things, including:
- your health and medical needs – your general health – both physical and cognitive - any specific conditions you have and any future health and medical concerns
- your physical needs – for example, how well you can get around; and whether you are able to do ordinary day to day activities like showering and dressing, shopping, preparing meals, cleaning and doing laundry and attending appointments
- your psychological needs – for example, how you are feeling, what you are most concerned about now and for the future, whether you have experienced depression or another mental illness
- your social needs – for example whether you have friends, family or other networks to support you; your hobbies and interests and whether you are able to participate in the social activities you’d like to
- your special needs or concerns – things that are important to you and your lifestyle. For example, religious or cultural beliefs, recognition of your sexuality, language requirements etc
All this feeds into getting the type of care that is best for you.
The good news is that you don't need to go anywhere. The assessor comes to you.
Don't be concerned: you can have anyone you want with you during the assessment.
Don't be concerned, there is nothing to be afraid of and you can have anyone you want with you during the assessment.
Annie Donaldson
agedcare101
Registered Nurse, Carer
Who is on the Aged Care Assessment Team?
Aged Care Assessment Teams are usually made up of:
- a nurse
- a physiotherapist
- an occupational therapist
- a social worker
Often they are based in the local hospital or community health service centre.
How long does an assessment take?
An assessment will generally take between 45 minutes and 75 minutes. And it usually takes another two weeks before the report arrives. This is important because you need this report before you can start looking for an aged care home.
Do you have to pay for the assessment?
No, the assessment is free. The good news is, it doesn't cost a cent.
Top Tip
You can get an emergency an assessment meeting with as little as 48 hours notice. Normally though it takes up to 6 weeks to have the assessment followed by another 2 weeks for the report.