Older Australians will be able to access unlimited gardening and cleaning support next year under changes to a Federal Government initiative.
Aged Care Minister Anika Wells said the Support at Home program would be amended to include cap-free gardening and cleaning services, allowing more elderly people to remain in their homes for longer.
Minister Wells said from July 1, next year, the program would provide improved access to services, products, equipment and home modifications.
She said older people would be able to access ongoing services including:
- Clinical care, such as nursing care, occupational therapy and continence care.
- Independence, such as help with showering, getting dressed, taking medications, transport or respite care.
- Everyday living, such as cleaning, gardening, shopping or meal preparation.
“We heard clear feedback during the Community Affairs Inquiry that older Australians want greater flexibility in the aged care they receive.
“Cap-free cleaning and gardening services will enable older Australians to live safely and comfortably in their own homes,” Minister Wells said.
Older Persons Advocacy Network Director Policy and Systemic Advocacy Samantha Edmonds said it was a sensible decision.
“Older people have told us countless times that a cap of 52 hours per annum on cleaning and 18 hours per annum on gardening is woefully inadequate,” Ms Edmonds said.
“If you are an older person with continence issues, one hour of cleaning a week is simply not enough to keep your home at a hygienic standard. Older people may also require additional gardening for safety reasons, such as fire hazard reduction.”
