From ACAT to moving into HillView Care – How we guide you all the way   

If it’s time for your elderly parents to transition into aged care, you’re probably experiencing a range of emotions. On top of this, you might also be feeling confused and unsure where to start with the whole process. Let’s look at the steps involved in transitioning your loved one into residential aged care at HillView Care. 

STEP 1: Understanding ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team)

ACATs are made up of doctors, nurses, and social workers who assess an older person’s needs and determine the type of care they may be eligible for. Their focus is on understanding care requirements.

An ACAT assessment is needed if you want to access government-subsidised aged care services. The assessment looks at medical, physical, psychological, mental health, and social needs to build a clear picture of the support required. While the process may sound quite formal, it’s designed to ensure people receive the right level of care at the right time.

Anyone aged 65 and over (or 50 and over for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) can apply for an ACAT assessment online through My Aged Care. The application takes around 15–20 minutes and requires a Medicare card. Once submitted, eligible applicants are usually contacted within two to six weeks to arrange a face-to-face assessment, which can take place at home or in hospital. Family members or support people are welcome to be involved, and interpreters can be arranged if needed.

If the assessment confirms your loved one is eligible for residential aged care, you can begin exploring suitable aged care homes.

Book a tour at HillView Care!

STEP 2: Choosing the right aged care home

When choosing a residential aged care home, it’s important to consider location, environment, care philosophy, and staff approach. Being close to family, in a home-like setting, with person-centred, dignified care and consistent staff can make a huge difference to the well-being of your loved one. 

At HillView Care’s Merrimac and Ashmore homes, our residents enjoy calm, welcoming spaces, a strong community feel, and personalised care that respects dignity and independence.

STEP 3: Understanding costs 

Finances can be a worry when your loved ones are moving into residential aged care, so it’s important to understand the costs. Key expenses include the basic daily fee, means-tested care fee, and accommodation fee, which are partly or fully covered by government subsidies, as well as extra or additional service fees for optional services. Discover the fees. 

STEP 4: Preparing for move-in day

Being prepared makes the move into aged care a little easier. Your loved one can bring personal items that make the room feel like their own, like photos, favourite blankets, or small keepsakes. 

It’s important to talk openly with your loved ones about the move and involve them in decisions wherever possible. Keeping familiar routines and belongings can help them feel more comfortable and secure. And don’t forget, the HillView Care team is here to support you along the way. 

We support families, not just residents

Moving into aged care is a big step for the whole family. Our communication is open, welcoming visits anytime and always involving families in care planning. After all, this is a family transition, so we want to make it as smooth as possible.

The team at HillView Care is always here to help, from the ACAT approval to settling into a home that feels safe and welcoming. 

If you’re thinking about aged care for your loved one, and aren’t sure where to start, reach out to HillView Care to ask questions, book a tour of our Merrimac or Ashmore homes, or have a chat.