As we grow older, our needs change—and sometimes, so does the level of care we require to stay safe, healthy, and independent at home. Whether you’ve had a recent health setback, your mobility has declined, or you're leaning more on family and friends for help, it could be time to reassess your home care package.
Reassessment isn’t just for those new to aged care. Even if you're already receiving support, reviewing your package can unlock additional services or a higher funding level to match your current circumstances.
Here’s how to know if your care needs have changed—and what to do if they have.
Home care packages are designed to be flexible—but they’re not automatically updated as your needs shift.
Reassessment is how you ensure that your support aligns with your current situation. With the upcoming Support at Home reforms, reassessing may also make you eligible for additional options like the Restorative Care Pathway, End-of-Life Pathway, or funding for home modifications.
Without reassessment, you could miss out on critical services such as:
Allied health like speech therapy or physiotherapy
Urgent care needs including nursing or home modifications
Help with meals, transport, or social connection
Learn more about Harbour At Home’s services here.
Hospital stays often signal that your care needs have increased. Whether you're recovering from surgery or managing a new diagnosis, you may now require support with medications, wound care, or getting around safely.
If you’re starting to struggle with basic movements—like getting out of bed, standing up from a chair, or walking without help—it may be time to apply for a higher level of support.
A reassessment can open the door to things like:
Physiotherapy
Mobility aids
Safety improvements around the home
It’s normal to lean on family and neighbours occasionally, but if informal support is becoming a regular necessity, it may be a sign your package needs updating.
If your care worker isn’t available when needed, or your loved ones are stepping in more often, it’s time to talk to your provider.
If you’ve started skipping the shower, avoiding stairs, or hesitating to walk around your home due to fear of falling, that’s a major red flag. You may benefit from:
Occupational therapy
Home modifications
Assistive technology to prevent falls
Memory lapses and confusion might seem small at first, but they can be early indicators of cognitive changes. Reassessment can help you access:
Dementia-specific care and check-ins
Medication management
Daily routine support
These services are often included in higher-level home care packages.
A drop in community engagement—skipping appointments, no longer attending social events, or avoiding outings—can lead to loneliness and reduced wellbeing.
A care package reassessment could help you reconnect through:
Transport support
Social visits or group activities
Assistance attending appointments
Explore our services to stay connected.
Unexpected weight loss or changes in appetite may indicate a need for clinical input.
Reassessment could give you access to:
A dietitian or nutritionist
Speech pathology
Meal delivery services
Have you skipped physio, reduced cleaning hours, or delayed home help to make ends meet?
If so, your funding level might no longer be adequate. Your care manager can help realign your services with your budget—so you don’t have to compromise on your care.
Sensory changes—like reduced vision or hearing—can make day-to-day living more challenging. If this sounds familiar, you may need:
Assistive technology (e.g. amplified phones, visual alerts)
Enhanced lighting or safety features
Access to health checks or audiology
Whether due to pain, anxiety, or lack of transport, staying indoors too often can impact your wellbeing. Reassessing your home care package could unlock:
In-home health services
Mental health and social support
Transportation to medical appointments or community events
The process is straightforward. Like your original assessment, a professional will review how your care needs have changed over time.
You can start by:
Contacting My Aged Care directly
Speaking with your care manager or Harbour At Home team
It’s helpful to:
Discuss changes with your care manager early—great care managers often notice shifts in your wellbeing, but don’t hesitate to speak up
Ask your GP or specialist for documentation or referrals to support your reassessment
You can also read our step-by-step guide to applying.
Depending on the outcome, you might receive:
A higher-level home care package
Access to extra services while you wait
A referral to other support programs
Importantly, your existing home care package won’t be taken away—so there’s no risk in asking for more help if you need it.