Starting a conversation about aged care can feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether your parents are fiercely independent, gently resistant, or simply unaware of what help is available, talking about getting support can be one of the most caring things you do.
With the Australian Government’s upcoming Support at Home Program and the Aged Care Act 2024, now is the right time to start the conversation—with dignity, empathy, and the facts on your side.
Why Now Is the Right Time
From November 2025, Australia’s aged care system is changing for the better. The Support at Home Program will replace existing Home Care Packages and offer a more streamlined, flexible way for older Australians to access help while living independently. It’s all about making care more personalised, respectful, and easier to navigate.
Your loved ones will also be supported by the Aged Care Act 2024, which includes a clear Statement of Rights that puts older people’s dignity, safety, and choice at the centre of every interaction.
If your parent has ever felt that aged care “isn’t for them,” this is a fresh start—with a system that’s built around what matters to them.
How to Approach the Conversation
You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need to start from the heart. Here are some key principles to guide you:
- Lead with empathy: This isn’t about taking away independence—it’s about preserving it.
- Use rights-based language: The new aged care reforms recognise the right to safety, autonomy, and culturally safe care.
- Focus on their goals: Would they like help around the house? Safer ways to move around? More time to enjoy life?
Try saying:
“I’ve been learning about the new Support at Home services. It’s designed to help people like you stay independent, with more choice and support at home.”
Talking Tips That Help
Conversations like these often take more than one go. Here are some ways to keep it supportive and constructive:
- Choose the right moment: A relaxed, private setting works best.
- Ask open-ended questions: “What’s getting harder lately?” or “How do you feel about some help at home?”
- Share your concerns, not demands: “I worry about you getting up and down the stairs. What do you think?”
- Respect their pace: They might not say yes right away—and that’s okay.
Remember: The goal is to open the door, not push them through it.
What Support Can Look Like
With the Support at Home Program, there’s no one-size-fits-all package. Services can be tailored based on your parent’s needs and preferences after a single assessment, making the process simpler than ever.
Common support services may include:
- Help with cooking, cleaning, or shopping
- Personal care such as showering or dressing
- Transport to appointments or social activities
- Physiotherapy, podiatry, or other allied health
- Safety modifications around the home
Every step of the way, care must meet the Aged Care Quality Standards, ensuring it’s safe, respectful, and aligned with your parent’s rights and values.
Talking About Rights and Safety
One of the most empowering parts of the new aged care system is the Statement of Rights. It guarantees every older Australian the right to:
- Be treated with dignity and respect
- Have choice and control over their support
- Live free from neglect and discrimination
- Access culturally appropriate services
- Speak up without fear
If your parent ever has concerns, they can also reach out to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission—an independent body that protects older people’s wellbeing.
Where to Go Next
The best place to start is by visiting My Aged Care, where you can learn more about the Support at Home Program, book an aged care assessment, and explore local providers who are registered to deliver services.
You can also contact a trusted in-home care provider—like Senior Helpers—who understands the new reforms and can walk you through the options.
Final Thoughts
Talking to your parents about getting support doesn’t mean giving up their independence—it means protecting it. With the Australian Government’s renewed focus on choice, dignity, and safety, there’s never been a better time to start the conversation.
And remember: support doesn’t have to wait until there’s a crisis. It can begin with just one small change that helps your parent feel safer, stronger, and more in control at home. If you need help, you can always contact us at Senior Helpers and we’ll do what we can to assist you.