For many Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Australian South Sea Islander, and non-Indigenous individuals seeking support as they age, navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming. One of the most crucial steps in accessing government funded home care services in Australia is undergoing an ACAT Assessment. At Bur-Del, we are committed to providing culturally appropriate support and information to help you understand this vital process.
What is an ACAT Assessment?
An ACAT Assessment, short for Aged Care Assessment Team (sometimes referred to as ACAS in Victoria), is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a team of healthcare professionals. This team typically includes doctors, nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists. Their role is to assess an individual’s physical, psychological, medical, restorative, cultural, and social needs to determine the most suitable type and level of aged care support.
The ACAT Assessment serves as the key entry point for accessing a range of government-subsidised aged care services. Without a formal ACAT Assessment, you cannot receive financial support for these services, which can include:
- Home Care Packages: Home Support services that help you live independently in your own home.
- Residential Aged Care: Care provided in a nursing home setting.
- Respite Care: Short-term care to give your regular carer a break.
- Transition Care Services: Support after a hospital stay to help you recover and regain independence.
- Short-Term Restorative Care: Programs designed to improve your independence and physical function.
The ACAT Assessment ensures that the care you receive is tailored to your specific needs, promoting independence and quality of life while ensuring appropriate support is in place. After the assessment, many individuals begin to ask, what can I spend my aged care package on? — a common and important question. Home Care Packages can be used for a wide range of services including personal care, meal preparation, cleaning, transport, allied health services, and even minor home modifications to support safe and independent living.
Why Do You Need an ACAT Assessment
You might need an ACAT Assessment if you or a loved one is finding it increasingly difficult to manage everyday tasks at home without assistance. This could be due to age-related frailty, a chronic health condition, a recent illness, or a change in circumstances that impacts your ability to live safely and independently.
Generally, individuals over 65 years of age (or over 50 and Indigenous) who are no longer able to manage at home without assistance are encouraged to seek an ACAT Assessment. In some specific circumstances, younger people with a disability may also be assessed.
The assessment helps identify what kind of support would best suit your current situation and future needs. It’s about finding solutions that empower you to live as comfortably and independently as possible. For instance, if you require more complex care that goes beyond basic home and community care services, an ACAT Assessment will be necessary.
The ACAT Assessment Process: What to Expect
The ACAT Assessment process is designed to be person-centred, considering your circumstances and preferences. Here’s a general ACAT Assessment guide to what you can expect:
Initiating an ACAT Assessment
The process of getting an ACAT Assessment typically begins by contacting My Aged Care. My Aged Care is the central point of contact for aged care services in Australia. You can contact them by calling 1800 200 422.. Family members, carers, and even healthcare providers like your GP can make a referral on your behalf.
When you contact My Aged Care, they will conduct a brief screening to understand your needs and determine if an ACAT Assessment is appropriate for you. They will then help you arrange the assessment.
The Assessment Visit
An ACAT Assessment typically takes place in your home, though it can also occur in a hospital setting if you are an inpatient. The team will sit down with you and, if you wish, with your family or carer, to discuss your health, daily activities, and what you find challenging. They’ll ask a range of ACAT Assessment questions to get a complete picture of your situation. These questions might cover:
- Your medical history and current health conditions: Including any medications you are taking.
- Your ability to perform daily tasks: Such as showering, dressing, preparing meals, and moving around your home.
- Your social connections and support network: Who helps you, and what kind of social activities do you participate in?
- Your living environment: Any modifications needed to make your home safer or more accessible.
- Your cultural background and preferences: This is particularly important for culturally appropriate care.
The team will also consider your strengths and what you can still do for yourself, focusing on how to support your independence.
ACAT Assessment Levels and Outcomes
Following the assessment, the ACAT team will determine your eligibility for government-subsidised aged care services and the level of care you require. ACAT Assessments are categorised into different levels based on the type and complexity of care and support you require. For example, Home Care Packages have four levels, from basic support (Level 1) to high-level care (Level 4).
You will receive the results of your ACAT Assessment in writing once the evaluation is complete. This document will outline the services you are eligible for and any conditions that apply. It’s important to keep this document safe, as it is your official approval for government-funded aged care.
ACAT Assessment in Different States
While the overall process for an ACAT Assessment is national, there can be some regional nuances.
ACAT Assessment NSW
In NSW, ACAT services are delivered through Local Health Districts, including regions like the Northern NSW Local Health District. These teams assess the needs of frail older people, whether they are in private or public hospitals, or living independently in the community. As with other states, their primary role is to determine eligibility for government-subsidised services like Community Home Care Packages or Residential Aged Care. While specific ACAT teams in areas like Tweed, Ballina, and Grafton have direct contact numbers, all initial requests and referrals in NSW must go through My Aged Care.
ACAT Assessment QLD
Similarly, in Queensland, ACAT teams carry out detailed assessments for older people whose needs go beyond what standard Home and Community Care services can provide. An ACAT Assessment QLD is essential to access ‘packaged’ community care at home, as well as subsidised residential aged care and NDS respite care. Referrals for an ACAT Assessment in Queensland, like other states, can be initiated by family, carers, or healthcare providers by contacting My Aged Care. For specific areas like Metro South Health, there are preferred referral methods including Smart Referrals and secure messaging for GPs.
Making the Most of Your ACAT Assessment
To ensure a smooth and effective ACAT Assessment, consider the following:
- Be Prepared: Think about the challenges you face daily and any concerns you have about your current living situation.
- Be Honest: Provide accurate information about your health, abilities, and what you need help with.
- Ask Questions: Feel free to ask the ACAT team any questions you may have about the assessment process, available services, or what the results mean for you.
- Involve Your Support Network: Having a trusted family member or friend present can be helpful for both support and to ensure all relevant information is shared.
The ACAT Assessment is a supportive process designed to help you access the care you need to live well. At Bur-Del, we understand the importance of cultural sensitivity throughout this journey. We are here to support Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Australian South Sea Islander, and non-Indigenous people through every step, ensuring you receive culturally appropriate and person-centred care.
For more information and to begin your journey, reach out to Bur-Del’s Burdekin Branch or Townsville Branch for culturally sensitive guidance and support tailored to your unique needs.
