If someone you know is ageing and finding some things difficult to manage, they might be eligible for Home Care help through a Home Care package.

UPA has been providing care for more than 75 years and because they are a not-for-profit, they place the community at the heart of everything they do.

UPA’s Wagga Retirement Village and Home Care Coordinator, Sandy Brown said UPA takes pride in providing experienced, friendly staff and continuity of care.

“Our vision has always been very clear since we were established in 1938,” she said.

“We work so that everyone can live with dignity and independence.

“You should be able to select appropriate and affordable support and care as and when you need it.”

What’s a Home Care Package and who’s eligible?

The government funds four levels of Home Care services depending on the needs of a client.

This feature is supported by:

The services could include personal care like help with showering, light housework, shopping, transport to appointments, outings, meal preparation, or garden maintenance. The provision of aids, equipment and nursing care are also covered with a package.

Potential clients should contact My Aged Care for a referral to the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) who will determine their needs and the package level.  

The process is outlined on the My Aged Care website, www.myagedcare.gov.au or call 1800 200 422.

“We can also help people through the process, as it can be very confusing,” Ms Brown said.

This year, Government changes in the industry have opened up the Home Care sector to competition, giving people choice.

Because of this, there are a lot of new “faces” popping up, so it’s important that people understand the provider they choose, their history, and their values.

“When you call UPA about Home Care Packages you won’t get an automated phone response or a 1800 number,” Ms Brown said.

“You will get a local staff member who knows the area and lives locally.

“We know that older people prefer the same person providing their services so we ensure clients have continuity in the people who visit them.”

UPA also offers a complete package of aged care services; offering a service or accommodation to suit your lifestyle goals and care needs.

In Wagga Gumleigh Gardens Retirement Village is in Albury Street and Gumleigh Gardens Residential Aged Care Hostel is next door in Shaw Street. UPA also offers aged care service packages in Henty, Culcairn, Walla and Holbrook.

More: (02) 6921 3219 or email homecare@upamurray.org.au