From mental health problems to substance abuse, people can face a number of problems in their lifetime.
While there are always services available to help people with difficult issues they may face, the unfortunate truth is some people have multiple issues, and a combination of these issues can lead to what is known as having complex needs.
What are complex needs?
Rather than referring to a person’s specific characteristics, complex needs is a term used to refer to a person who is understood to have multiple issues in their life that result in having a profound effect on one’s well-being and ability to function in society.
These issues encompass all manner of problems, such as those concerning mental health and substance addictions.
Developmental issues can also be a large factor, particularly in children who are still developing.
Complex needs can also stem from an involvement in the Criminal Justice system, as well as difficulties in finding and maintaining housing.
Who can have complex needs?
Due to the individualistic nature of complex needs and that each need is based on personal circumstances, it is difficult to determine the exact number of people affected.
This becomes even more difficult because of the way that many people can move across a spectrum over time, meaning people can have varying severities at different points in their life.
Furthermore, people of any age can have complex needs. Children with a combination of development and mental health issues can be deemed to have it, while an adult with a substance abuse who has faced time in court or jail could equally be referred to as having complex needs.
Elderly people can also be affected, particularly regarding mental health problems common amongst people in their later stages of life, such as dementia.
Mental health problems like dementia can greatly affect one’s ability to perform daily tasks, look after oneself and also greatly limit a person’s ability to interact with other people.
These combined issues result in someone with dementia falling under the category of having complex needs.
Difficulties accessing help
As a result of these problems, people with complex needs often require aid in the form of services and support from the government and community organisations.
However, this support can sometimes be difficult to obtain.
One primary reason is that many systems can be complex to navigate. Mental problems in individuals can only heighten the situation, and when a large number of people with complex needs often have a very small or even non-existent support network of friends and family, finding help can sometimes be a challenging task.
Support for housing can also be troublesome due to an often lack of safe and affordable properties which can lead to homelessness and instability.
Getting help with complex needs
So, what can be done to help people who have complex needs?
There are many services in place, but as mentioned, accessing them can sometimes be difficult. Many local community services can help put you in contact with people who can help assess you or a loved one if you believe help is required.
If previous services and attempts at help are unsuccessful, there is sometimes the option to apply for the Multiple and Complex Needs Initiative service, which is specialised in helping those with complex needs.
Respite care is also an option for carers who may be looking after a child or elderly individual with complex needs.
While only temporary, a brief respite can benefit both parties if friends and family are unable to provide support during difficult times.
From our Home Caring family to yours we wish you a truly wonderful Christmas filled with love, joy and togetherness.
Today as we celebrate we're reminded of the incredible clients and families we've had the privilege to support throughout the year. Your trust and connection mean the world to us and it's our honour to be part of your journey. We hope you've had a beautiful day surrounded by loved ones and the warmth of the season. Merry Christmas! 🎄✝️❤️
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’Twas the Friday before Christmas & all through the land,
Home Caring united, a festive day so grand.
With our staff and clients together as one,
We celebrated Christmas, full of love and fun.
From Craigieburn’s cheer to South Perth’s delight,
Rockhampton’s joy sparkled so bright.
Campbelltown gathered, Hurstville did too,
Smithfield and Altona also spread Christmas hues.
With laughter and love felt far and wide,
Our epic Christmas parties warmed hearts inside.
A shoutout to every team who made it so sweet—
This festive season you’ve made it complete! 🎄🩵
#HomeCaringChristmas #TogetherAsOne #FestiveJoy #MeaningfulConnections #CelebratingCare #haveahollyjollychristmas
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The Australian Government has announced significant changes to the aged care system introducing the Support at Home program set to commence on 1 July 2025. This initiative aims to enhance support for older Australians enabling them to remain in their homes longer and receive more personalised care.
Key Features of the Support at Home Program:
• Reduced Wait Times: The program will shorten the waiting period for in-home aged care services ensuring timely assistance for those in need.
• Tailored Support Levels: Support at Home introduces eight levels of ongoing care replacing the previous four, to better match individual needs.
• No Caps on Cleaning and Gardening: Unlike previous programs there will be no annual caps on cleaning and gardening services allowing for more comprehensive support.
• Care Management Cap: A 10% cap on care management costs will remain in place to maintain affordability.
• Assistive Technology Access: The program will expedite access to assistive devices like walkers and wheelchairs enhancing mobility and independence.
• Increased Support Funding: The maximum support level will rise from $61,000 to $78,000, providing more resources for those with complex needs.
• Restorative and Allied Health Services: There will be a temporary funding boost for restorative and allied health services, aiding recovery and well-being.
• Palliative Care Support: The program includes provisions for palliative care allowing older Australians to spend their final weeks at home surrounded by loved ones.
Staged Implementation of Price Caps:
Price caps on services will be phased in starting from 1 July 2026. For the first year providers will continue to set their own prices similar to the current Home Care Packages program. In early 2025, consultations will be held with older people, advocates, families, carers and the sector to ensure fair pricing and robust consumer protections during this transition.
No Worse Off Principle:
To protect existing Home Care Package recipients, the government has introduced the “No Worse Off” principle:
• Grandfathering: Individuals approved for a Home Care Package as of 12 September 2024 will transition to the new system without financial disadvantage.
• Fee Structure: If you were a full-rate pensioner paying no fees under your Home Care Package as of 12 September 2024, you will continue to pay no fees under Support at Home. If you were required to pay fees, you will pay the same or less under the new program.
At Home Caring we are dedicated to supporting our older community members through these changes. We are committed to ensuring the financial safety and well-being of our clients providing personalised care that aligns with the new Support at Home program. Our team is here to assist you in navigating these updates, ensuring you receive the care and support you deserve. 🩵
For more detailed information please refer to the Department of Health and Aged Care’s consumer fact sheet: www.health.gov.au/resources/ publications/support-at-home-program-fact-sheet-changes-to-support-at-home-pricing-arrangements-for-older-people-families-and-carers?language=en
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Happy Friday HC fam! Sending love from our wonderful Home Caring Craigieburn team! It’s been an incredibly productive week filled with exciting events across Australia and we couldn’t be more thrilled about what’s to come. As the new year approaches we’re counting down the days to continue growing innovating and supporting our cherished clients with the care they deserve 🩵 ... See MoreSee Less