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Understanding and advocating for your rights in aged care
Many people don’t realize just how many rights they have when it comes to aged care, and often, it’s this lack of awareness can leave them feeling uncertain or overlooked.
Knowing your rights isn’t just a formality, it’s important to make sure you get the respect and support you deserve. Understanding them can empower you to make informed choices, advocate for yourself, and feel confident that your needs and preferences are being honoured.
The importance of knowing your personal rights
Personal rights are at the heart of independence, giving you the freedom to make choices that feel right for you.
With a little support and clarity, you can feel confident enough to ask for what you need and set the goals that matter to you. It’s all about feeling valued, respected, and in charge of your own life.
However, many find it uncomfortable to ask about their rights, fearing they may seem burdensome, especially if they’ve experienced feeling discouraged or misunderstand in the past. Concerns about contradicting a loved one’s wishes can also weigh heavily.
Standing up for yourself isn’t about causing trouble, it’s about ensuring you receive the care and respect you deserve. Even if it feels uncomfortable at first, advocating for yourself is never wrong.
Having choice and control over your services
Your rights in aged care are about more than just personal independence. They’re about having the freedom to shape your support in a way that suits you. This means you have the choice to find services that feel right, to change providers if something isn’t working, and customise your care to suit your unique needs.
Through programs like the Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home Care Packages offered through My Aged Care, you could also access subsidised services, noting that some programs may require a gap fee payment.
Understanding what is on offer for you
There are many people who just aren’t aware of their rights, which can make it hard to ask questions or seek help. It’s natural to feel uncomfortable or unsure of where to start, and you may be hesitant to make changes once you’ve begun receiving services.
Common yet avoidable barriers often arise when trying to access financial supports or benefits. Understanding the funding system, like the differences between the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCPs), or knowing the eligibility criteria for a Disability Support Pension (Blind) can open the doors to the funding and services you need.
Moving forward
Everyone deserves respect, options, and the freedom to live life on their own terms. By knowing more about your rights, you’re not only looking out for today but also building a future where your needs are heard, respected, and valued. All of which you deserve.
For a full list of your rights, visit the Charter of Aged Care Rights via the My Aged Care website.
Helpful Resources
Care Finder: They will join you at My Aged Care assessments and help you navigate the My Aged Care system when you don’t have the right support at home.
My Aged Care: They are there to support you from the very beginning of your vision loss diagnosis.
Services Australia: There are a range of government services and supports available for you and your loved ones.
Vision Australia Services: We are here to support you in the ways in which you would like to be supported.