How to Access Aged Care
Practical guidance for Australia and the United States
Home care services in the United States
At a glance
Home care can mean practical help with daily life or clinically directed home health care. These services have different roles and payment rules. Start by describing the tasks you need help with, rather than asking only for “a carer”.
Match help to the task
List washing, dressing, meals, housekeeping, transport, companionship and any clinical care separately. Record when each task is needed, including evenings and weekends. Ask a clinician which tasks need qualified health staff or a clinical plan.
Plan your next steps
Find and compare services
- Use Eldercare Locator or your Area Agency on Aging to ask about local options and support programmes.
- For home health after illness or hospital care, ask the treating clinician about eligibility, referral and the proposed care plan.
- Ask agencies about licensing requirements in your state, worker screening, supervision, insurance and replacement cover.
- Request an itemised quote showing minimum visits, travel, weekends, cancellations and any additional charges.
- Agree a written schedule, named coordinator, complaint route and review date. Check who employs and supervises the worker.
Check coverage before the first visit
Medicare covers qualifying home health services under specific conditions; it does not generally pay for ongoing help with daily living alone. Ask the plan and provider to confirm covered tasks, authorisation and your possible costs. A verbal suggestion is not confirmation of payment.
Questions and useful links
Can we employ someone directly?
This may involve different responsibilities for employment, tax, insurance and backup cover. Get local advice before agreeing to an arrangement you do not understand.
What if no provider can start?
Ask for realistic dates and a safe interim plan. If discharge is approaching, tell the discharge team about the gap. Do not describe family support as available unless someone has agreed to provide it.
Find your Area Agency on Aging · Compare home-care services · United States guides
Sources and review
Medicare. (n.d.). Home health services. Accessed 19 September 2026.
Administration for Community Living. (n.d.). Eldercare Locator. Accessed 19 September 2026.
About this guide
United States • Prepared September 2026. Editorial lead: Louise Simon. Independent specialist review has not yet been completed. General information; confirm advice for your circumstances.