Managing Arthritis at Home: Aids, Support and Funding for Older Adults
Practical arthritis help at home for older adults: allied health, aids and equipment, home modifications, everyday support, and how aged care funding can help.
Living with arthritis at home
Allied health makes a real difference
Aids and equipment
Home modifications
Help with everyday tasks
How funding works
Staying active and managing pain
Frequently asked questions
What help is available at home for arthritis?
Allied health such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, aids and equipment, home modifications, and hands-on support with personal care, cleaning, meals and transport. Much of this can be funded through the aged care system based on assessed need.
Can aged care funding pay for aids and modifications?
Yes. Both the Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Support at Home can fund aids, equipment and home modifications like grab rails and raised toilet seats. Legacy home care package balances are also often a good source for one-off modification costs.
Who should assess what my parent needs?
An occupational therapist is ideal for matching aids and modifications to the person's specific joints and home, while a physiotherapist helps with movement and pain. Access to funded allied health starts with an assessment through My Aged Care.
Does exercise help arthritis in older adults?
Gentle, regular movement is one of the best things for arthritic joints, helping maintain strength and reduce stiffness. A physiotherapist or exercise physiologist can design a safe program, and the GP can guide pain management alongside it.