4 steps to choose a residential care service

When the time comes for you or a parent to move into residential care, choosing the right service is an important but complex decision. Sometimes, your choice may be limited because of the urgency or the availability of suitable places, and the pressure can be overwhelming. But making the right choice is key to a good experience.

It might help to take an approach that is similar to the approach you would take if you were buying or renting any property, and break down your decisions into four steps:

1. Choose the location
2. Consider what feels like home and what amenities are important to access
3. Check the price for affordability
4. Structure your finances to meet the costs.

Choosing the location

When choosing where to live, location is always the first consideration. This might be based on the lifestyle you want to live, or what you want to be close to.

Do you want to stay in the same area where you have been living so you can continue for example, with the same doctor, hairdresser, church group and friends. Or would it be better to move closer to your children so visits can be more regular.

What feels like home

This can be different for everyone – but it is important to understand where you feel comfortable and what makes you happy.

Is this a newly-built service or does an older style service feel more homely? If you have always lived in a stand-alone home, would you be comfortable in a multistorey building? If you loved to spend time in the garden, you might be happiest if you can find somewhere with access to good gardens and lots of open space.

As well as the physical look and feel, think about how it might feel to live there. Does it have a friendly and relaxed feel or does it all feel a bit clinical?

If you are taking a tour of a residential service watch how staff interact with the residents. Ask about additional lifestyle services and choices you might have for things like entertainment and meals.

Choose an affordable service

The price of a room in residential care can range up to $3 million. But so does the price of homes vary greatly. The reality is that you need to find something in an affordable price range.

This does not mean you have to hand over large lump sums for aged care. You can choose to pay a daily fee to “rent” if that suits you better. This can help you to afford a more expensive room.

If you need help with understanding aged care, and in particular with the financial decisions contact us today and book a meeting.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This document has been prepared by Aged Care Steps Pty Limited, ABN 42 156 656 843 AFSL 486723, based on our understanding of the relevant legislation at the time of writing. While every care has been taken, Aged Care Steps Pty Limited makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the contents. The information is of a general nature only and has been prepared without consideration of your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any decisions, you should consider the appropriateness for your personal investment objectives, financial situation or individual needs. We recommend you see a financial adviser, registered tax agent or legal adviser before making any decisions based on this information. Current as at 1 February 2025.