What is Residential Aged Care?

Residential aged care provides 24-hour support and accommodation for older Australians who can no longer live safely or independently at home, even with assistance.

Also known as nursing homes or aged care homes, these facilities offer personal care, meals, healthcare support, and social activities in a safe and supportive environment.

Residential aged care aims to provide comfort, dignity, and quality of life while ensuring residents receive the care they need every day.

When is Residential Aged Care Needed?

Residential aged care may be appropriate when someone:

  • Needs ongoing personal care (showering, dressing, mobility assistance)

  • Has complex medical or health needs

  • Experiences memory loss or dementia requiring supervision

  • Is at risk living alone

  • Requires 24/7 care or monitoring

  • Has carers who can no longer safely provide support at home

Many families consider residential care after hospital stays, falls, or increasing care needs.

Types of Residential Aged Care

Permanent Residential Care

Long-term accommodation for individuals who require continuous care and support. 

  • Personal care assistance

  • Medication management

  • Nursing care

  • Meals and housekeeping

  • Lifestyle and social activities

  • Allied health services

Respite Care (Short-Term Stay)

Temporary care designed to:

  • Give family carers a break

  • Support recovery after hospital stay

  • Trial residential care before making a permanent decision

Respite stays can range from a few days to several weeks.

Dementia Care

Specialized support for people living with dementia, including:

  • Secure environments

  • Structured daily routines

  • Staff trained in dementia care

  • Memory-support programs

What Services Are Provided?

Most residential aged care homes provide:

  • 24/7 trained staff
  • Nursing support
  • Personal care assistance
  • Meals and nutrition planning
  • Cleaning and laundry services
  • Social and recreational activities
  • Medication management
  • Health monitoring
  • Emotional and wellbeing support

Some homes also offer:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Podiatry
  • Hairdressing
  • Religious or Cultural Services

How Do You Access Residential Aged Care?

To enter residential aged care in Australia, you must first complete an assessment through:

My Aged Care

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Register with My Aged Care

  2. ACAT Assessment (Aged Care Assessment Team)

  3. Receive approval for residential aged care

  4. Research and choose a suitable aged care home

  5. Apply directly to preferred facilities

  6. Accept an offer and move in

Understanding Costs

Residential aged care fees vary depending on income, assets, and chosen accommodation.

Common fees may include:

  • Basic Daily Fee – covers meals and daily living costs

  • Means-Tested Care Fee – based on financial assessment

  • Accommodation Payment – may be refundable or paid daily

Government subsidies help cover a significant portion of care costs for eligible residents.

We recommend seeking financial advice before making decisions.

Choosing the Right Aged Care Home

When comparing facilities, consider:

  • Location and proximity to family

  • Staff friendliness and communication

  • Cleanliness and environment

  • Activities and lifestyle programs

  • Food quality

  • Cultural or language support

  • Room options and comfort

  • Reviews and reputation

Visiting homes in person is strongly encouraged.

Choosing residential aged care is often one of the most emotional and overwhelming decisions individuals and families will face. It can bring uncertainty, difficult conversations, and feelings of guilt or worry — but it is also an opportunity to ensure safety, comfort, and the right level of support for a loved one. Open and honest discussions with family members, carers, and healthcare professionals are an important part of this journey. Taking the time to understand options, ask questions, and plan together can help everyone feel more confident and supported.