kincare worker and elderly man sitting on the sofa talking to each other

Make the best choice: Residential care or in-home care

by KinCare — 7 June 2018

A move into residential care is an enormous life change. How can you be sure that it’s the best option is for you?

If you’re considering moving yourself – or your loved one – into residential care, a nursing home or other aged care accommodation, you’ll want to be sure that you’ve weighed up all the options available to you.

You’re more likely to make the right decision if you’re well-informed and seek expert advice as early as possible.

It’s important to consider your reasons for moving. A few common reasons people have for wanting to move into residential care include:

  • House size and maintenance
  • Lawn and garden upkeep
  • Death of a partner
  • Change in health status
  • Financial considerations
  • Safety and security
  • Transport

In-home care services can help you stay in your own home

There may be a number of services available to support you to stay at home longer. If you’re not sure whether you know all the services available to you, please call KinCare today to arrange a discussion about your immediate and future needs.

Increases in subsidy to enable additional care can be requested and our team can help guide you through this process.

Questions to consider

Everyone has different needs and lifestyle preferences, so it’s important to think about some of the factors that may impact anyone considering a move out of their own home.

  • What are my reasons for moving?
  • Have I explored all the options available to me in stay at home?
  • Can I continue to receive my current home care services and supports when I move?
  • Can I receive the right care and support at the village if I get older or if I get sick?
  • Are there village rules that may affect my lifestyle? Are pets allowed?
  • How far is it to the local shops, doctors, hospital, church, library, club, public transport?
  • Have I discussed my thoughts with my family and friends?
  • Will I be moving away from my local community?

If you can find solutions to the challenges you might be experiencing at home, then you might prefer to keep living in your home – for as long as you wish.

Need help in choosing what's right for you?

Not sure about the difference between in-home care and residential care? Our handy comparison table explains the main differences between home care and residential care to help you make this critical decision.

Important questions to ask about residential care

Fees and other costs

Weighing up the costs between residential care and in-home care can also help you decide what’s right for you.

  • How much will it cost me to move and live in a retirement village?
  • Do I understand the contract and all the fees and charges that will apply?
  • Can I change the inside of the premises or do my own gardening?
  • If I decide to leave the retirement village, will I be able to resell my unit?
  • What are the termination fees and charges?
Your lifestyle
  • Is the village well maintained?
  • Is the village secure? Are the paths designed for easy access? Is the lighting adequate?
  • Can I take my own furniture and belongings? Will it be suitable?
  • Can I change the inside of the premises or do my own gardening?
  • Will there be parking for my visitors?
  • Is there an emergency call system or staff on call?
  • Can I have family or friends stay with me?
  • Is there a committee to liaise between the residents and the operator?
  • Are the residents happy? How many vacant units are there?
Your future needs
  • Am I able to make modifications to my unit? How much will this cost and will I need to remove them when I leave?
  • Will the village and unit be accessible and suitable if I develop a disability and need a wheelchair or walking aid? Can I still use the bathroom facilities?
  • Does the village provide personal care, meals or nursing care?

 

More information

Always seek legal and financial advice before signing a contract. For more information about retirement living, please contact your state Retirement Village Residents Association.

KinCare is here to help

Making the change can be an overwhelming process, to find out how KinCare can help, speak to one of our Customer Care Managers today.