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