Q: I’m a self-funded retiree with a home care package. It gives me help with cleaning, gardening and some personal care after a fall affected my mobility. I’ve received a letter about the new support at home program that is replacing my home care package. It says I’ll now have to contribute up to 80 per cent for everyday services like cleaning and gardening and 50 per cent for personal care. This feels like a huge jump in costs. I thought the reforms were meant to help older Australians stay in their homes longer, so why are we being asked to pay so much more? Is there any way to reduce these fees or challenge the new pricing? Matt.
A: This month was the starting point for a challenging change for many retirees receiving government financial support to continue living at home rather than moving into an aged care facility, says Brenda Will, a financial adviser and aged care specialist at Perth-based Bruining Partners.
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