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Understanding the Signs That Your Loved One May Need Extra Support at Home
As families come together, especially during holidays or milestone moments, it’s common to notice changes in an older loved one that may not have been obvious during quick visits or phone calls. Some early signs include:
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Increasing forgetfulness or confusion
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Difficulty managing medications
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Changes in hygiene or personal care
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Less food in the fridge or expired items
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Reduced mobility or new bruises from small falls
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Clutter or safety hazards around the home
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Emotional withdrawal or loneliness
These changes don’t always mean something serious is wrong — but they are a sign your loved one may benefit from a little extra support to stay safe and independent at home.
If you’ve noticed any changes in behaviour, increased frailty, or perhaps want to sense check some changes you are noticing in your elderly loved one, the team at Home Care Assistance Sydney City and East are ready to help.
Respecting our ageing loved ones
Research shows 80% of older Australians prefer to age at home rather than in an aged care facility.
We all want what’s best for our ageing loved ones and to honour their personal choices whenever possible.
However, making decisions on their behalf can be emotionally and practically challenging.
At Home Care Assistance Sydney City and East, we’re here to support you and your loved ones with this transition.
We help families honour their loved one’s clear preference to age in place.
Still, some older adults may feel uneasy about having Care Workers in their home.
They may worry about privacy or independence, leading to some initial resistance to in-home care.
This is completely natural and very common.
That’s why we offer guidance and strategies to help ease these concerns.
Home Care Assistance Sydney City and East can support a smoother transition to care for both you and your loved one.
Starting the conversation can feel sensitive, but approaching it with empathy can make a world of difference.
Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, private time where you both feel comfortable to chat without distractions.
Lead With Kindness: Gently express what you’ve noticed:
“I care about you and want to make sure you have everything you need to live comfortably at home.”
Listen First: Give them space to talk about how they’re feeling and what challenges they’re facing.
Focus on Independence: Reassure them that care is not about “giving up control” — it’s about protecting the independence and lifestyle they value.
Introduce Support Gradually: A few hours of assistance each week can ease the transition and build trust.
Explore Funding Options Together: Many older adults are eligible for government-funded help through My Aged Care, Grandfathered Home Care Packages, or the upcoming Support at Home Program. Private care can also begin immediately if support is needed sooner.
Our team can help you understand each option clearly and simply.
If you’re feeling unsure about where to begin, here’s a simple plan to guide you through the next steps:
Step 1 — Write Down What You’ve Observed
Small details matter, and they help form a clearer picture.
Step 2 — Chat With a GP
A GP can review health needs, provide referrals and offer medical insight.
Step 3 — Understand Your Care Options
Older Australians can access government-funded support via Support at Home, Commonwealth Home Support Program or NDIS. Alternatively, they can access support privately.
Step 4 — Make Small Home Safety Improvements
Decluttering, better lighting and medication organisation can reduce risks immediately.
Step 5 — Reach Out for Professional Guidance
Our team is here to help you make sense of your options and create a personalised plan that suits your loved one’s needs.
Home care funding options
In Home Care services can be privately funded, but there are also options that can be fully or partially government funded such as Support at Home packages, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Carer Gateway respite.
How to apply for home care funding
The first step is to call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or apply for an assessment online.
To complete the online assessment, you will need Medicare card details and to nominate the primary contact person for your loved one. The primary contact will be required for a face-to-face meeting to better understand the support needs. You can find out more about the types of assessments, what happens, and how best to prepare for it here.
What happens once funding is established?
Once your funding is established, be it private or government subsidised our Home Care Assistance Sydney City and East team will work alongside you and your loved one to create an individualised plan focused on a full life experience. Find your local team here.
