How to Access Aged Care
Practical guidance for Australia and the United States
Aged care assessment checklist
Before the assessment
Download the assessment checklist (PDF, 2 pages)
Use this checklist as a conversation aid. It is not an eligibility test. Write down examples and leave space for questions.
- What matters most to the person?
- Which daily tasks have become harder?
- What happens on a good day and on a difficult day?
- What help is already provided by family or friends?
- Have there been recent changes in health or living arrangements?
- What language or communication support would help the person take part?
- Who does the person want involved?
Ask the assessment organisation which documents and information to have ready.
During the assessment
Describe real examples and allow the person time to explain their own priorities. Ask for unfamiliar terms to be explained.
- Have we explained the main difficulties clearly?
- Have we described existing unpaid support?
- Have we discussed the person’s preferences?
- What options might be relevant?
- How will the outcome be explained?
- Who should we contact with questions?
Notes: record the assessor’s name, the date, questions discussed and any information you need to provide later.
After the assessment
- Read the outcome and ask about anything unclear.
- Record each next step and who will do it.
- Ask about provider enquiries, waiting arrangements and costs where relevant.
- Keep contact details and copies of important information.
- Ask what to do if needs change.
Read the assessment guide · My Aged Care guide · Care at home
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Further information
My Aged Care. (n.d.). How to get assessed.
Country: Australia. Updated September 2026. A planning tool, not a substitute for an assessment.