Restorative Care Pathway
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Restorative care is designed to help you maintain your independence and continue living comfortably at home for longer. Our team of health professionals works with you to understand your needs and provide the right level of support.
Everyone’s needs are different. Your care may include allied health and nursing support, exercises to improve strength and balance, helpful equipment, or minor changes around your home. Our goal is to help you stay confident, active and independent, so you can continue doing the things that matter most to you.
Restorative care is available through the Restorative Care Pathway as part of the Support at Home program.
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What Help Is Available?
The support you receive will depend on your individual needs and may include:
- Nursing care, occupational therapy and physiotherapy
- Help with showering, dressing, medications, transport and respite care
- Assistance with cleaning, gardening and shopping
How can I access this care?
To access the Restorative Care Pathway, you’ll first need to complete an aged care assessment to determine your eligibility and support needs.
You may be eligible for an assessment if you’re 65 years or older, or 50 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and have:
- Noticed changes in what you can do or remember
- Been diagnosed with a health condition or have reduced mobility
- Experienced changes to your family or care arrangements
- Recently had a fall or been admitted to hospital
During your assessment, your assessor will discuss your needs and determine whether restorative care is suitable for you. If eligible, you’ll work together to set goals and create a personalised support plan.
How Does It Work?
If you’re approved for the Restorative Care Pathway, you’ll receive a personalised support plan and budget for up to 16 weeks. You may also receive separate funding for assistive technology, equipment or minor home modifications to help you remain safe and independent at home.
Your care provider will work with you to understand what you want to achieve and recommend services that support your goals. Together, you’ll create a personalised goal plan and budget based on your needs.
Your family and friends can also be involved in your care, providing additional support and encouragement as you work towards your goals.
How Do I Find a Restorative Care Pathway Provider?
Finding the right provider is simple. You can use the My Aged Care Find a Provider tool to search for organisations that deliver Restorative Care Pathway services in your area.
When searching, select:
- Support at Home Program under Care Program
- Restorative Care Management under Services within Maintaining My Health and Wellbeing
If you need help finding a provider, the My Aged Care team can also assist you with the process.
Where Is Care Provided?
Restorative care can be provided in your home, within the community, or a combination of both, depending on your individual needs.
Your care may include:
- Minor changes around your home to improve safety
- Visits to a local physiotherapist or health professional
- Group exercise or strengthening sessions to support your physical and social wellbeing
How Long Can I Receive Restorative Care?
You can receive restorative care for up to 16 weeks, depending on your individual needs and goals.
If eligible, you may receive up to two restorative care periods within a 12-month period, with each period lasting up to 16 weeks.
How Much Funding Will I Receive?
You may receive a budget of around $6,000 to support your care during the 16-week period.
If you need additional services, your provider can request a Support Plan Review for up to an extra $6,000, subject to eligibility and approval.
If additional funding is approved, you won’t be eligible for another restorative care period within the same 12-month period.
Can I Receive Restorative Care Alongside Other Services?
Yes. If you’re already receiving services through Support at Home, you may also access the Restorative Care Pathway.
We’ll coordinate your care to make sure your services work together, without unnecessary overlap, while supporting your individual needs and goals.
How Soon Do I Need to Start Services After Approval?
You’ll need to start your services before the take-up date shown on your Notice of Decision letter, usually within 56 days of approval.
If you need more time, you can contact My Aged Care to request an additional 28-day extension.
If you don’t start services by the required date, your funding may be withdrawn. You can contact My Aged Care to request a reassessment if this happens.
What Will It Cost Me?
As the Restorative Care Pathway is part of the Support at Home program, you may need to contribute towards the cost of some independence and everyday living services.
Clinical care services are fully funded by the Australian Government.
For more information about fees and contributions, visit the Support at Home Costs and Contributions page on My Aged Care.