Navigating the changes of moving into aged care.
Moving into a residential care home can be a positive step, providing the care and support needed while being freed from the responsibilities of maintaining a home.
Whether you’re exploring this option for yourself or helping a loved one, we know it can sometimes feel a bit daunting. You might be wondering where to start, how the process works, or what the costs will be. Below we will walk through the process step-by-step, helping to make an informed decision with confidence.
Aged Care Made Simple
You can download our helpful booklet explaining Aged Care here.
What Is Aged Care?
Aged care provides support for older people who need help with daily living and tasks such as meals, medications, bathing and dressing; essentially helping to create a safe, comfortable living environment. Whether it’s short-term respite or long-term care, our services are designed to meet each residents unique needs.
Getting Started
Step 1: Talk with your GP about a Needs Assessment: A trained assessor will visit you in your home and help determine the care level required, as well as assist with the Residential Care Subsidy paperwork for funding (see below).
Step 2: Choosing a home: Visit a few facilities to compare, ask about personalised care, how they communicate with family, and the costs associated with what’s on offer to find the best fit.
Costs and Funding
Care costs depend on each resident’s financial situation. There are three main options:
- Fully Funded: Health NZ covers all costs if a resident qualifies for the Residential Care Subsidy.
- Private Pay: All costs associated with care are privately funded by the resident/family.
- Combination: Partial government funding with capped private contributions.
Work & Income New Zealand (WINZ) assesses eligibility and offers financial support options, like subsidies or loans. Find out more information about this here.
Moving In
Once a home has been selected, the new resident (and family) meet with the Facility Manager who will go through the process for admission and help you get settled into our place.
We encourage residents to bring in their own pieces of furniture and favourite items from home. It’s your new home so furnish it with things you love and cherish.
Need More Information?
Download our Aged Care Explained Guide for all the details and visit one of our homes to chat with our friendly team. We’re here to help you make the best choice for you or your loved one.
