Understanding Community Care Services
Community care programs offer a range of personalized health and support services aimed at assisting the elderly and individuals with disabilities, mental illness, learning disabilities, and physical disabilities. The primary goal of these services is to enable individuals to remain in their homes, retain as much independence as possible, and avoid social isolation.
These services are essential in helping older adults and disabled individuals stay socially connected to friends, interests, and their community. They are designed to support those who require care and assistance to live with dignity and independence within the community, thereby preventing social disconnection.
Typically, community care services encompass non-medical personal care for those experiencing limitations in performing everyday activities. These services are prescribed by a doctor and provided by personal or private caregivers.
Local authority social services are responsible for providing or arranging community care services. The challenge lies in balancing the individual’s needs, available finances, and the availability of caregivers willing to provide the necessary support.
Providers of Community Care Services
Qualified, dedicated, and experienced care workers, including registered nurses and allied health professionals, deliver these health and support services. They visit individuals in their homes, offering care without the need to move to a care home.
Caregivers in community and home care settings provide trustworthy, experienced, and dedicated care, as well as professional assistance. This support helps simplify everyday life and encourages independence, giving families peace of mind that their loved ones are in good hands.
Specialized health care staff are available to support individuals in areas such as care for older adults, rehabilitation therapies, and personal support services.
Organizations like Community Care Australia and Calvary Care are examples of providers offering these essential services.
Eligibility for Community Care Assessment
Individuals eligible for community care services must meet specific medical, financial, and functional criteria similar to those required for nursing home care under Medicaid. The objective is to provide services and resources that support individuals in remaining part of the community for as long as possible.
Eligible individuals may include:
People with disabilities
Individuals with mental or physical illnesses
People with Alzheimer’s disease
Older adults
Those unable to perform two or more daily living tasks
Community Care Assessment Process
Obtaining an assessment is straightforward. If you or someone you know requires help, you can contact your community services department for a community care assessment. This can be initiated by the individual themselves, a carer, friend, or professional.
You, your doctor, family member, or friend can reach out to the Commonwealth Carelink Center or your local HACC services coordinator to discuss your needs and arrange an assessment.
Home and community care services are convenient, flexible, and tailored to individual needs and preferences. Some services are available around the clock, ensuring continuous support.
To learn about available services and the assessment process, contact a healthcare professional or a local community care company. While some provincial health care schemes may cover certain services, payment or supplemental insurance coverage may be necessary for others.
Conducting the Assessment
A care professional, such as a therapist, social worker, or nurse, will conduct the assessment, potentially eliminating the need for multiple assessments from different organizations. The assessment may be completed over the phone, through self-assessment with local system support, or in person at the individual’s home.
Advocates are available to assist those who find it challenging to understand the care process or discuss their needs. If an advocate is not present during the assessment but is desired, the local authority must arrange for an independent advocate to assist.
The assessment will determine the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks, such as washing, dressing, and living safely at home. Even if someone already assists with these tasks, they are still considered needs.
It is crucial to ensure that the assessor is aware of any difficulties in performing tasks, with or without help, to determine eligibility for support.
Can Social Services Refuse an Assessment?
Social services may refuse to conduct a community care assessment if they believe the individual is not eligible. In such cases, they must provide reasons for their decision. If the decision is unsatisfactory, the individual has the right to file a complaint.
Services Included in Community Care
Community care services are diverse and designed to support the well-being goals of the recipients. These services range from health and personal care to pet care, transportation, cooking, respite, and more, depending on individual needs.
Community care services may include:
Group activities and outings
Assistance with errands, shopping, and appointments
Companionship for social interaction
Home care services may cover:
Domestic assistance: Cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation
Personal care: Help with dressing, bathing, and toileting
Maintenance: Home and yard care
Home modifications: Installation of safety features like alarms, ramps, and support rails
Community nursing: Professional nursing care at home
Some services are available both at community centers and in the home, such as:
Food services: Meal provision at community centers, assistance with grocery shopping and meal preparation, and home-delivered meals
Allied health services may include:
Physiotherapy, podiatry, speech pathology, occupational therapy, and dietary advice for individuals with mobility issues or other health concerns
Respite Care:
Temporary relief for caregivers, provided by respite care professionals at day centers or in the home
Choosing a Home and Community Care Provider
When selecting a community care provider, consider the following:
Quality of service and trustworthiness
Transparent information about costs and services
Opportunities to discuss goals and solutions before commitment
A collaborative approach to care planning
Choice and flexibility in care and support services
Control over who provides care and how it is managed
Access to a dedicated care coordinator for inquiries
Support in achieving health and well-being goals
Conclusion
Selecting the right community care provider can significantly improve the mental, physical, and social well-being of seniors or loved ones in need of care. It offers them the chance to engage and participate in activities with their community members. Careful consideration in choosing a community care provider can lead to a more fulfilling and independent life for those in need.