Getting Started
Making the move to aged care can feel overwhelming — but we’re here to help, every step of the way.
Our five-step guide explains how to apply for aged care, what to consider, and how we support you throughout the journey.
Step one
Assess your eligibility
Check Your Eligibility
To apply for government-supported aged care, you’ll need an assessment from the Single Assessment System (SAS) team. They’ll ask about your care needs, daily living, and health. You can contact SAS directly or have your GP, social worker, or family member assist. You’ll receive an assessment result that outlines the care you’re eligible for, which you can use with any aged care provider.
Financial Services Australia assessments
You’ll also need to complete a Means and Assets Test through Services Australia to understand your care costs.These tests can take time, so we recommend starting this at the same time as your care assessment.
Consider speaking with an aged care financial advisor who can help you make informed decisions based on your personal situation.
Step two
What to consider when looking at aged care homes
It’s important to choose an aged care home that meets your care needs and lifestyle preferences. We invite you and your loved ones to book a private tour and encourage you to tour other homes in your preferred location so you can find the right fit.
Before you visit
Before you visit any aged care home, think about what is important to you.
Care Needs
- Do you need 24-hour nursing?
- Are you living with dementia?
Your Room
Do you prefer a private room with your own ensuite?
Meals
- Is fresh, home-cooked food important to you?
Lifestyle
Are there social activities, community outings, or pet-friendly options?
Bring a list of questions and personal preferences. We’ll guide you through it all.
Talk to us
When you visit Kewarra Aged Care, we’ll take the time to understand your needs and preferences. Feel free to ask any questions — we’re here to support you. After your visit, we welcome you to call or come back with any follow-up questions.
Step three
Applying to Kewarra Aged Care
If you choose Kewarra Aged Care, we’ll provide clear information about your care costs based on your circumstances. You can apply using the Government Application for Aged Care, and once submitted, we’ll confirm available rooms that meet your needs and begin the pre-admission process.
Step four
Pre-admission support
This step is unique to Kewarra Aged Care and helps new residents feel comfortable from day one.
Your residential care agreement
We’ll invite you in to go through your Residential Care Agreement, answer any questions, and help complete paperwork.
Your pre-admission day
You’ll also meet our care and lifestyle team, take a home orientation tour, and enjoy a coffee or meal with us.
Preparing to move in
We’ll help you prepare your room with labelled clothing, special items, and electrical checks so it feels like home from the start.
Step five
Admission and Moving In Day
On the day you move into your new home, we encourage your loved ones to join you for the whole day as you settle into your new home. We will be there to support you, however we will give you the space to settle in and begin to feel at home. We invite your loved ones to join you for lunch so you can enjoy a meal together and relax once the hard work of moving is done.
FAQs
As you can imagine, we receive a lot of questions from prospective residents and families. So take a look at our most common queries – we might have even answered some you hadn’t thought of yet.
Seek further information
There are numerous online resources available to help you make the right choice. We’ve listed a few below.