Areas covered include Cairns, Atherton, Mareeba, Port Douglas, Innisfail, Tully and surrounding areas
Do you feel confused about Aged Care? Accessing the Aged Care system can be complicated and overwhelming just as Enrico discovered.
Enrico was recently widowed and living alone in the home he had shared with his wife. Suddenly he did not have that person there who prepared the meals, paid the bills and looked after the housework. Enrico stopped driving 2 years ago due to his failing eyesight. Now he had to get the bus if he wanted to go to the shop and he doesn’t like travelling alone. He hated relying on neighbours for a lift. He knew he needed some help but had no idea where to start. Luckily, Enrico’s GP had heard about the Aged Care Navigator service in his area and referred him to this service. The Navigator assisted Enrico with linking to services in his area through exploring his support needs and helping him navigate the My Aged Care process.
The Aged Care Navigator service supports people to understand and engage with the Aged Care system. This service is available to people who need information about Aged Care options, registering with My Aged Care and/or assistance to link with support services in their community. This service includes older people and extends to family, friends, carers and others who are supporting someone to access care and support.
The Aged Care Navigator will help people to:
- Understand the Aged Care system
- Identify support needs and options available
- Understand the My Aged Care website
- Register with My Aged Care
- Fill in Aged Care Forms
- Progress through the assessment and planning processes including choosing a service provider
- Connect with other support services when needed
Kate Kleemann is the Aged Care Navigator for the Cairns and Hinterland region.
Kate can be contacted on 0499 186 825 or via email at agedcarenavigator@cotaqld.org.au. Further information about the Aged Care Navigator trial can be found at www.cotaqld.org.au/program-and-services/current-programs/aged-care-navigator-trial/
This service is free, confidential and independent of any aged care provider.
This Aged Care Navigator Trial is delivered by COTA Queensland as part of a consortium led by COTA Australia and funded by the Australian Government.
