Caring for an Elderly Parent: A Practical Guide
Caring for elderly parents: a practical guide to starting the conversation, arranging aged care, the funding and carer payments, and self-care.
Start the conversation early
Get an aged care assessment
Understand the care options
Financial support for carers
Get support for yourself
Plan for the future
Frequently asked questions
How do I arrange aged care for my elderly parent?
Start with a free assessment through My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or myagedcare.gov.au. A trained assessor, often visiting at home, works out what your parent needs. The outcome may include CHSP services, a Support at Home classification, or residential care approval. You can attend and act as their…
What financial help is there for carers?
Through Services Australia you may access Carer Payment, a means-tested income-support payment for constant care; Carer Allowance, a fortnightly supplement for daily care; and Carer Supplement, an annual lump sum for eligible carers. Use the eligibility checker on the Services Australia website…
How do I talk to my parent about needing care?
Start early, before a crisis, and choose a calm moment. Ask what they want rather than dictating, and frame support as the thing that helps them stay independent and at home longer. Treat it as many small conversations over time, not one big confronting talk.
Where can I get support as a carer?
Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 is the national service for carers, offering free counselling, coaching, peer support, tailored support packages with planned respite, and emergency respite. Reach out early rather than waiting for a crisis — support works best when it helps you cope, not just recover.