Deciding to move into a residential care home is a significant step for you or your loved one.

At Doutta Galla, we want to ensure this transition is as smooth and transparent as possible. One of the key considerations when entering a care home is understanding the costs involved, which vary depending on your financial situation and the type of care you need.

Here’s a guide to help you understand the financial aspects of entering residential aged care at Doutta Galla.

Government Subsidies and Personal Contributions

The Australian Government provides subsidies to care home providers to make residential aged care affordable. However, if you’re able to, you will be expected to contribute to the cost of your care and accommodation. The amount you need to pay depends on your income and assets, which will be assessed by Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

Types of Fees You May Be Asked to Pay

1. Basic Daily Fee: This fee covers your day-to-day living costs, such as meals, laundry, and power. Every resident pays this fee, and for many, it is the only fee they need to pay.
2. Means-Tested Care Fee: If your financial assessment shows that your income and assets are above a certain threshold, you may be asked to contribute towards your care. This fee is calculated based on your financial situation.
3. Accommodation Costs: Depending on your financial assessment, you may need to contribute towards your accommodation. This could range from having the government cover all costs to paying for the full cost of your room. You can choose from a variety of payment options such as a lump sum refundable deposit or daily rental-style payments.
4. Additional Services: Many care homes offer additional services or extra service rooms with higher standards of accommodation or extra facilities. These services come at an additional cost, and you have the option to choose based on your preferences and needs.

Financial Hardship Assistance

If you’re experiencing financial hardship, there are provisions to help reduce the burden of care and accommodation fees. You may be eligible for financial assistance through the government; contact Services Australia for more information.

Payment Options

You have a choice in how you pay for your accommodation at Doutta Galla:

• Lump-Sum Refundable Deposit: This option involves paying a one-off lump sum, which is refunded when you leave the facility.
• Daily Payments: This rental-style payment is made daily and is an alternative to paying a lump sum.
• Combination of Both: You can also choose a mix of both options, allowing you to make a partial lump sum payment with the remainder covered by daily payments.

Seeking Financial Advice

It’s important to seek independent financial advice before making decisions on how to pay for your aged care, as this can impact your pension and other financial aspects. Doutta Galla encourages all families to consult a professional to ensure you are making the best decision for your personal circumstances.

Moving Forward

We understand that navigating the costs of aged care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team at Doutta Galla is here to support you with information, guidance, and personalised advice.

For further details, contact us directly, or visit the My Aged Care website to use their fee estimator tool and find out more about the specific costs associated with aged care.

At Doutta Galla Aged Services, we are committed to providing quality, affordable care for everyone. Understanding the costs involved is the first step towards planning for the future and ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones.