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Living in an aged care home
Living in an aged care home means living with many new people under one roof, and getting used to having other people taking care of some of the daily tasks you have looked after yourself in the past.
However, you will retain your rights as a citizen, your personal privacy, your rights to have visits from family and friends, and to come and go as your health and abilities allow. For example, you cannot be left out of things because of your religion or language.
You also have the right to maintain control over the personal aspects of your daily life, as well as your financial affairs and possessions, and to be consulted or to have your say on your own living arrangements or those of the home in general.
At the same time, you will be expected to respect the rights and needs of other people in the home, including staff and other residents.
Your rights — and other peoples’
No matter which home you choose, your rights and responsibilities as a resident will be the same. These are outlined in the Charter of Residents’ Rights and Responsibilities and are included in legislation to ensure their protection.After moving in you will be asked to sign a resident agreement, which will set out your responsibilities and those of the home. You do not have to sign the agreement immediately, and will have time to discuss it with your family, or with your solicitor or financial adviser.
Read more: About your rights and responsibilities
Related topics: About Resident Agreements
Your questions answered
There are many aspects of living in aged care homes that you may be unsure about, such as: what belongings can you take with you, what activities will be offered, and what happens if you would like a break away from the home. This section answers all your questions about living in an aged care home.Read more: About questions you may need answered
Common questions on this topic:
- Granddad needs to go into a high-level care home. He requires meals in line with our religion. Will we have to pay extra for these meals?
- My mum is in an aged care home and is getting a bit confused. The home has a hairdresser and nail care times each week, but mum's hair and nails need cutting. Shouldn't someone remind her to use these services?
- Will I receive nursing care if required in a retirement village?
See more common questions on this topic | See all common questions
