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Being assessed for aged care
Perhaps you’re finding it harder to get the shopping done and want some support. Or maybe your parent is not coping with living on their own and needs some help. Whatever your situation, if you want to get some help from the government, you may need to get an assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT or ACAS in Victoria) (more information).
Government programs such as the Home and Community Care (HACC) (more information) program and the National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP) (more information) do not require you to get an ACAT assessment for you to access their services. It might be a good idea to start by calling 1800 200 422 as they will be able to tell you about services in your area and if you should get an ACAT assessment or not.
- What does assessment mean?
- Do I need an ACAT assessment?
- How to get an assessment
- What’s an ACAT assessment like?
- What are the next steps?
- Rights and responsibilities
What does assessment mean?
An ACAT assessment works out how well you're able to cope with daily living activities and your own care, as well as which services you may be eligible for.Read more: About what an assessment is?
Do I need an ACAT assessment?
If you wish to access government-funded services, you will probably need an assessment. Many other service providers offer their own assessments to help you access their services.Read more: About whether you need an assessment
How to get an assessment
Your first step is to contact an Aged Care Assessment Team. The assessment is free and they’ll be able to give you more information about the procedure.Read more: About how you can get an assessment
Next step: Aged Care Assessment Team Finder
What’s an ACAT assessment like?
An aged care assessment involves a visit from one or two members of the team, who will talk through the activities you find difficult to manage. They’ll then be able to discuss your options and let you know how to access the services that may be able to help you.Read more: About what an assessment is like
What are the next steps?
A person with an ACAT approval for high care will not need to be reassessed. However, a person with an ACAT approval for low care will need to be reassessed if their care needs change, particularly if they have not received care within 12 months of receiving the approval.Read more: About what the next steps are
Rights and responsibilities
The Aged Care Act 1997 states that you have a right to be involved and informed about all decisions relating to your care. You also have the right to appeal an assessment that you disagree with.Read more: About your rights and responsibilities
Common questions on this topic:
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