Aged-care glossary: plain-English meanings

At a glance

Care services use different words in Australia and the United States. This glossary explains common terms to help you ask clearer questions. A short definition does not establish eligibility, legal authority or insurance coverage.

Everyday care terms

Care assessment: a process for understanding support needs and, where relevant, programme eligibility.
Care plan: a record of agreed needs, support, responsibilities and review arrangements.
Personal care: help with daily activities such as washing and dressing.
Respite: a temporary alternative to the usual caring arrangement.
Reablement: support focused on maintaining or regaining everyday abilities.
Advocacy: help to express wishes, understand options or raise concerns. It does not automatically give someone decision-making authority.

Plan your next steps

Australia

My Aged Care: the Australian Government starting point for information and access to government-funded aged care.
CHSP: Commonwealth Home Support Program, providing entry-level support at home.
Support at Home: the programme that replaced Home Care Packages in November 2025.
Residential aged care: accommodation with ongoing care and everyday support in an aged care home.
Means assessment: assessment of financial circumstances used to work out relevant contributions.
RAD / DAP: refundable accommodation deposit / daily accommodation payment. Ask how payment choices, deductions and refunds apply to your arrangement.

Questions and useful links

United States

AAA: Area Agency on Aging, a local or regional starting point for ageing services.
Home health: clinically directed services at home; coverage has specific conditions.
Assisted living: accommodation with support for daily life; services and rules vary.
Skilled nursing facility: a setting providing nursing and related care; the name does not guarantee payment.
Medicare: federal health insurance with defined benefits.
Medicaid: a joint federal-state programme that can include long-term support for eligible people.
HCBS: home and community-based services.

Australia guides · United States guides · All resources

Sources and review

My Aged Care. (n.d.). How do aged care costs work?. Accessed 19 September 2026.

Medicare. (n.d.). Home health services. Accessed 19 September 2026.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). Long term services & supports. Accessed 19 September 2026.

About this guide
Australia and United States • Prepared September 2026. Editorial lead: Louise Simon. Independent specialist review has not yet been completed. General information; confirm advice for your circumstances.