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10 signs your home care package might need a reassessment


Support needs don’t stay the same—and your home care package shouldn’t either. As health changes, tasks become more difficult, or circumstances shift, it’s important to make sure your care still fits your life.

Whether you’re receiving services or still on the waitlist, reassessment is how you unlock the right level of support at the right time.

Below are 10 common signs it may be time to review your care, plus how to apply for more support when you need it.

Why your home care package should evolve with you

Home care packages are designed to adapt to your changing needs. But they don’t update automatically.

If you’ve noticed a change in your health, mobility, memory, or confidence, a reassessment can help you access a higher-level package or extra services. It’s also a good way to prepare for the upcoming Support at Home reforms, which may offer new funding pathways such as:

Reassessing early can help you avoid:

1. You’ve recently been in hospital

A hospital stay is often the turning point for many older Australians. If you’ve recently returned home from hospital, your care needs have likely increased.

You might now require assistance with:

2. Everyday movement has become more difficult

If you're starting to struggle with daily activities—getting out of a chair, using stairs, or walking without help—it’s a strong signal your care level needs adjusting. Through reassessment, you may be able to access:

3. Your family and friends are stepping in more

Informal support from loved ones is valuable—but it shouldn’t replace professional help. If you're frequently asking others for lifts, errands, or assistance around the home, your current care plan may not be sufficient.

4. You’re avoiding things because you’re afraid of falling

Falls and near misses are some of the biggest indicators that support may be lacking. If you’re avoiding activities like showers or stair use due to fear of falling, reassessment could provide:

5. People close to you are concerned about your memory

If your friends, carers, or GP have noticed you're forgetting appointments, repeating stories, or appearing confused, it’s worth seeking a cognitive assessment.

Reassessment may help you access:

6. You’ve stopped engaging with your community

Losing touch with your regular routines—social events, appointments, or community outings—can lead to isolation. With the right supports, you can reconnect and maintain a fulfilling routine.

Reassessment may help you access:

7. You’ve noticed unexplained weight loss or trouble eating

Changes in appetite, swallowing difficulties, or low energy could be a sign that your health needs have shifted.

If so, your care plan might benefit from:

8. You’ve started cutting services to stay within budget

If you’re forgoing cleaning visits, allied health appointments, or regular care to cover other costs, it's a sign your current funding isn't covering your needs. A higher-level package could give you more flexibility without compromise.

9. Your vision or hearing has changed

Even minor sensory changes can lead to safety issues or impact your independence. You might benefit from:

10. You’re not leaving the house anymore

Feeling unsafe, unsupported, or too unwell to go out? Staying home all the time can affect your mental and physical wellbeing.

A reassessment could help with:

How to request a reassessment

Reassessments are handled through My Aged Care, and the process is very similar to your original application.

You can:

If you’re already working with a care manager, let them know what’s changed. They can guide you through the process and help organise everything on your behalf.

What happens after you’re reassessed?

Once your needs are reviewed, you may:

You won’t lose your existing funding—so there’s no downside to asking for more help if you need it.

In need of in-home aged care services?

Contact us today to find out how we can support you and your loved ones.


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