Moving to aged care

We are with you every step of the way

Someone you love may have reached a point where care needs have increased. For some, this is gradual. For others, a sudden health event means that additional care is required now.

There are many decisions to make when considering a move to aged care which can feel overwhelming with so many options and seemingly complex calculations.

This is where we can help.

Whilst we provide financial strategies and advice, what we really do is empower people moving to aged care to transition with dignity and peace of mind.

5 key steps to take when moving to aged care

Step 1. The ACAT assessment and choosing the home

Before moving to aged care, you will need an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).

This assessment will identify the level of support needed and eligibility for permanent residential care.

If you’ve previously had an assessment and health needs have changed, you can request a new assessment.

The Government’s website, My Aged Care, includes a lot of useful information to help you understand your options and apply for the ACAT assessment.

Next, choose the new home from the government-recognised list of aged care home providers. Arrange a tour, consider the room options you’d prefer, and check vacancies and waiting lists.

Our Lifestyle and Care advisers can also provide guidance around the options available in your area.

Step 2. Understanding your options and the costs

There are many factors that influence the costs associated with aged care. This includes the location of your chosen facility, the services you receive, and your financial situation.

We have put together this exclusive guide which outlines the different types of fees and how they might apply to you. Complete the form below and your copy will be emailed to you.

Download our free guide to aged care

Step 3. Covering costs now, and setting up for the future

With such a significant life change, you want to know that you and your family are financially secure both now and in the future.

This is where our advisers can support you by understanding what is important to you and your family, which is often beyond the numbers.

Our role is to help you to make big decisions knowing that you fully understand all the options available to you. This includes the long term impacts on the aged care fees, income (including government benefits) and assets.

Step 4. Putting your strategy into action

It’s now time to complete the DHS forms for the initial assessment of the aged care fees.

The assessment often takes several months and this can be ongoing especially when there are changes soon after entry such as a payment to the accommodation or change to the former home. It can feel very overwhelming, particularly at a time when so much else is going on.

We can provide full support to relieve you of this burden. We use our experience to lodge claims, ensure that the calculations are accurate for your situation, and appeal any incorrect fees or pension payments on your behalf. We also provide confidence that government calculations take into account your complete situation.

What happens when clients meet with us?

Jillian Clarke and Andrew Biviano discuss what clients can expect in their first meeting

Step 5. We’re here when you need us

After moving to permanent care, there may be changes that impact the fees and pension entitlement and it’s important to ensure the Government departments are updated.

We know that things change and you may need to make new decisions over the years.

We’re always just a phone call away and can advise you further as well as continue to assist you with government departments.

Tony Katsikas

March 29, 2023.

We dealt with Ronald Tyler to help us sort through the best way to manage mum's nursing home affairs. All in all, his analysis of the available options given our circumstances was exceptional

TheCookiePlays YT

March 29, 2023.

When my mother unexpectedly died, I was a struggling single mum left with the sole responsibility of re-building my disabled sister’s life. Mum had been her whole world so knowing what to do was confusing and terrifying, but thankfully Kate Golder was there as mum’s financial advisor. Her compassion and sound advice allowed me to find and make the necessary decisions. I can honestly say it was Kate, acting like a loving big sister, that allowed us all to survive the situation. Not only does Alteris Financial Group provide clever financial advice but they will care for you like you’re family. I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Robert Hookham

March 22, 2023.

On my mother's behalf I want to sincerely thank both Ben Graham and Colleen Seeto for your support and care over many years in managing mum’s finances and also in caring for her as a person, not to mention the ease with which the relationship worked. She is (along with me) VERY thankful for the advice given under Piccadilly and then Alteris and we wish both of you well for the future.

Mike Philipson

March 10, 2023.

I can’t praise highly enough the work of Danni, Nicole and now Ron & Vin in helping me navigate the financial side of the aged care system, helping me ensure dad’s financial security.

Mary Gullo

December 14, 2022.

I cannot thank Danni and the team at Alteris enough for all there help with my parents entering aged care. There knowledge about aged care is exceptional. A personal thank you to Sharon for her hard work as well. Could not have done it without there help and knowledge.

Sharon Hummelstad

October 13, 2022.

Evan from Alteris has been advising my family and we have found him to be kind, understanding and knowledgeable on his advice and would highly recommend him to anyone who is trying to navigate the aged care and Finsncial options for any retirees. Regards Sharon Hummelstad

Patrick Fernandez

April 20, 2022.

I sought the assistance of Jillian Clarke and Alteris to resolve some very specific and intricate financial matters that affected my aged parents. It involved closely examining a great deal of information before engaging with government agencies on behalf of my parents. The Alteris team was attentive, responsive and knowledgeable, all of which contributed to a favourable outcome. Thanks you.

Brian Gorman

April 19, 2022.

We were recommended to Jillian Clarke of Alteris by one of the nursing homes we were inspecting as we tried to work out what the best option was for my father-in law. The woman at that home said that no matter which home we chose, we HAD to contact Jillian, We were struggling to get our head around the complex cost structures that exist in the aged care system and were so glad we called Jillian. She was amazing! Jillian took the time to explain clearly how everything worked. We never felt rushed, she listened to our questions and always came up with useful information with concise explanations. She immediately put us at ease and showed us the various possibilities of how my Father-in-law could finance his aged care costs. Jillian's extensive experience is invaluable as she was able to guide us through all aspects of the process and show us how to get the most cost effective structure. She always went the extra mile and maintained constant communication with us as we went through the process. We went on to recommend Jillian to my Father-in-law's partner and she did the same fantastic job for her. I would recommend Jillian and Alteris to anyone who needs advice on how to navigate the complicated process of getting a relative into an aged care facility. She is simply the best!

We have helped thousands of families make the move with confidence, knowing that all the details are covered and the best strategy has been recommended.