We understand that it can be difficult to know where to start on your aged care journey.
Residential aged care is a service for older people who cannot live independently at home and have been assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team as needing a high level of care.
Residents live in an aged care centre (also known as a nursing home or aged care home) where they receive specialised care based on their specific needs and individual care plan. This might include assistance with daily activities such as showering or personal hygiene, and they can also receive medical care from registered nurses and allied health professionals.
There are a few common signs that you or your loved one may need residential aged care (to move to a nursing home):
There are several factors to take into consideration when choosing a residential aged care centre or nursing home, including the level of care required, environment, facilities and services offered, food, location and community activities.
There’s no doubt that making the decision to move into an aged care centre and receive residential aged care services can be difficult.
It can be an emotional time for you and your loved ones. The best way to make a good decision is to visit several aged care centres to compare them and get a feel for them. Ask the questions that are relevant to your needs, listen carefully to the responses and keenly observe what is happening around you.
You may also wish to consider respite care so that you can experience life at an aged care centre before making a more permanent move.
Find out more about how to find the aged care centre that’s right for you.
How much you pay for residential care aged care depends on the type of care you need, the provider you choose, your individual financial circumstances and the aged care services you receive.
The Australian Government helps pay for residential aged care and accommodation for eligible people.
At IRT, we make it easy for you to understand your residential aged care costs. We have put together a guide which explains costs, options available to you and eligibility for government support. Learn more.
All of our rooms at our aged care homes are furnished for your safety and comfort, and this includes a bed, storage, bedside table and armchair. You’re welcome to decorate your suite with photographs, artwork, linen and other belongings or add personal touches to make it feel more homely.
You or your loved one will feel right at home in our welcoming communities.
Of course! At IRT, we make the effort to truly understand your interests and what’s important to you, so you can enjoy the things you love. We offer a number of social and lifestyle activities in our aged care centres to enhance your wellbeing and sense of community, including:
Discover some of the activities that our IRT residents have been enjoying at our aged care centres. Find out more.
Yes, residents of residential aged care facilities can continue to receive medical treatment and attend appointments while living in one of our communities. We’ll regularly review your personalised care plan with you and your family in consultation with your GP and/or allied health professionals.
When your needs change, we’ll help you and your family decide what to do. You may choose to move to a new suite that better caters for your needs or you may want additional aged care services or specialised dementia or palliative care.
We’ll be there to support you during each step of your care journey. Importantly, we’ll make sure you and your family have choice and control over your care services and quality of life.
Your family and friends are welcome to visit you at an aged care home and be part of our community. You might also like to go on social outings with them or stay in touch via a private phone and internet connection in your suite.
We work hard to involve your family and friends in our communities with special events and regular communication so that you stay connected with loved ones.
Pets can’t live in our aged care centres, but we love for them to visit. If you’re leaving a much-loved pet, ask a family member or friend to take you to visit them or share photos and videos to keep you involved.
