Use this checklist to guide your search for the right home support for your loved one or yourself.
✅ Step 1: Understand your care needs
- Identified the types of support needed.
(e.g. personal care, mobility help, companionship, transport)
- How often is care needed?
(e.g. full-time, part-time, overnight, respite)
- Consider any cultural, language, or personal preferences.
- Arrange an NASC assessment (if applicable) to check for public funding support.
✅ Step 2: Explore your care options
- Are we clear on whether we’ll provide care ourselves or bring in support?
- Compared:
- Agency-based care
- Independent caregivers (e.g. through Mycare)
- Do we understand the pros and cons of each approach?
✅ Step 3: Know what to look for in a caregiver
- List any must-haves in terms of experience or qualifications.
- Consider soft skills like warmth, patience, and communication style.
- Arrange a meet-and-greet or trial session.
- Check references or read reviews (if available).
✅ Step 4: Understand cost and funding options
- Do we have a sense of the weekly/monthly budget for care?
- Explored:
- Carer Support Subsidy
- Disability Allowance
- SuperGold Card discounts
- NASC-funded services
- Speak to a GP, NASC team, or social worker about available support.
✅ Step 5: Use the right tools to simplify your search
- Search on Mycare for local caregivers.
- Filter by location, skills, and availability.
- Message questions to any potential caregivers.
- Set up a trial to see how things go.
✅ Step 6: Look after yourself too
- Are we building in breaks or respite time as a carer?
- Do we have support from others (family, friends, support groups)?
- Are we taking care of our health and well-being?
- Are we open to adjusting care as things change?