10 signs it’s time to be reassessed for home care funding

As we get older, our care needs can shift—sometimes slowly, sometimes quite suddenly. If your care plan isn’t updated, your Home Care Package may no longer provide the right kind of support. That’s why requesting a reassessment is so important.

Perhaps you’re recovering from a recent hospital visit, finding everyday activities harder, or leaning more on loved ones to get by. In these situations, it’s worth reviewing whether your current funding is still meeting your needs.

This article shares 10 clear signs it might be time for a reassessment, along with practical steps to help you get started.

Why your Home Care Package should evolve with you

Home Care Packages are designed to support older Australians to live independently—but they aren’t automatically adjusted as your needs change.

By requesting a reassessment, you may be able to access:

• A higher package level with greater funding

• Targeted services through the new Support at Home program

• Additional supports such as the Restorative Care Pathway, End-of-Life Pathway, or essential home modifications

Without reassessment, you could miss out on vital services like physiotherapy, nursing support, or equipment that enhances safety and quality of life.

Learn more about our home care services.

1. You’ve been hospitalised recently

A stay in hospital often marks a turning point in someone’s health or independence. Post-discharge, you may require wound care, medication management, or help moving around your home.

Even if you’ve recovered well, it’s worth reviewing whether your current supports are still suitable.

2. Daily tasks are becoming physically challenging

Finding everyday movements more difficult—such as getting out of bed, climbing stairs, or rising from a chair—can be a sign that your mobility is declining. A reassessment may open the door to:

- Home modifications like grab rails or ramps

- Mobility aids tailored to your needs

- Allied health services such as physiotherapy

These supports are often included with higher-level Home Care Packages, making it easier to stay safe and comfortable at home.

3. You’re relying more on family and friends

Have you started calling on your children, neighbours, or friends for more help lately?

Whether it’s getting groceries, managing appointments, or household chores, increasing reliance on others could mean your current package isn’t keeping pace.

4. You’re avoiding activities because of falls risk

If you’ve had a fall—or are worried about having one—you may be limiting your movements out of fear.

Skipping showers, avoiding stairs, or hesitating to walk alone are signs you might benefit from:

• Occupational therapy

• Safety modifications

• Assistive technology

These services can reduce your risk and restore confidence at home.

5. Others have noticed changes in your thinking

Sometimes those closest to us notice things before we do—like confusion, forgetfulness, or repeated questions.

These can be early signs of cognitive decline and may indicate a need for:

• Dementia-specific care

• Medication support

• Regular welfare checks

These services are often included in higher-level packages or accessed through specialist aged care programs.

6. You’re Less Active in the Community

If you’ve stopped attending your regular groups, events, or appointments, this might signal more than just a shift in your schedule—it could mean your care isn’t fully supporting your social wellbeing. Through reassessment, you may become eligible for:

- Transport assistance

- Companionship and social connection

- Access to local community programs

7. You’re losing weight or having trouble eating

Unintended weight loss or swallowing difficulties could mean you’re not getting the nutrition you need.

Through reassessment, you might be referred to a dietitian or speech pathologist, or receive access to home-delivered meals or nutritional supplements.

8. You’re cutting back on services to make ends meet

Stretching your care budget too far can mean you’re missing out on essentials—whether that’s cleaning, therapy, or in-home support.

If you're forgoing services to afford basic needs like food or transport, a higher-level package may offer much-needed relief.

9. Your vision or hearing has changed

Even subtle changes to your hearing or eyesight can affect daily safety—from tripping on steps to missing alarms or instructions.

Reassessment can help fund:

• Assistive devices like hearing aids or visual alerts

• Safety upgrades like improved lighting

• Regular check-ups with specialists

10. You’ve stopped leaving the house

Staying home all the time—especially if it’s due to illness, anxiety, or a lack of support—can impact both your physical and mental wellbeing.

Support options available after reassessment may include:

• In-home care

• Social visits

• Telehealth access

• Transport services

These services can help restore your independence, even if you're not ready to leave the house just yet.

How to get reassessed for a Home Care Package

If your situation has changed, it’s important to act early. The reassessment process is similar to your initial application.

Start by:

• Speaking to your care provider. A good care manager will often pick up on these signs—but you can also raise your concerns directly.

• Gathering evidence. Your GP or healthcare providers can provide documentation that supports your application.

You can request a reassessment by contacting My Aged Care or get guidance from us directly.

What happens next?

Once reassessed, you may be:

• Approved for a higher-level package

• Referred to other programs for urgent needs

• Given short-term supports while waiting for full package upgrades

It’s important to know that reassessment won’t result in losing your current funding. If anything, it ensures your care keeps pace with your changing life.