Supported Living Overview
As Parkinson’s symptoms increase, it can become gradually more difficult to care for yourself and carry out important daily household tasks. You may begin to find that you need extra support to manage your own care, independence and wellbeing. At the same time, carers may find themselves becoming overwhelmed trying to run the household and meet the daily needs of the person they care for.
Different levels of support and respite are available to help you, or the person you care for, stay well, independent and safe. Depending on your needs, this help may be provided in the home, in the community or in residential aged care homes.
Please note: Aged Care Australia provide an excellent guide to these care programs.
In general, community care programs are subsidised for people who are assessed and approved by the Australian aged care system or the Victorian disability system . If you are not eligible for these programs, you can arrange for similar services privately on a user-pays basis.
Unfortunately, many people miss out on services. Sometimes this is because people don’t know what’s available or because they haven’t conveyed clearly enough during assessments how their wellbeing depends on this support. You should also be aware that, because of high demand for services, you may only get a portion of the services you feel you need.
In situations like these, it can be helpful to contact an advocacy service or Parkinson’s Victoria - 1800 644 189 to discuss how the assessment will take place. Often, the case manager may not have an in-depth understanding of Parkinson’s, so it is useful to explain your symptoms and how they affect you during “on” and “off” periods.
In sum, there are a variety of programs available and eligibility can be tricky. This guide aims to help you get support for daily living by highlighting key services and resources under the topics below. We encourage you to read this section carefully and call our helpline on 1800 644 189 if you have any queries or concerns.
Aged care advisory & advocacy services
Find out about the range of aged care information, advisory and advocacy services. You can also find abuse resources and hotlines.
Help to stay at home
Find out about home and community-based supports that can help you stay well, safe and independent at home.
Respite and carers
This section helps connect you to the range of services, options and supports available to carers and the people they care for.
Retirement Living
Find central retirement resources and supports in this section.
Residential Aged Care
Find the range of aged care options, information resources and supports.
Housing
Find important services and resources on the range of housing options here.
Government Links
|