3 Biggest Mistakes When Starting the Aged Care Journey (and How to Avoid Them)
Navigating Australia’s aged care system can feel overwhelming. You might find yourself lost in government jargon, unsure which services you need, or scrambling to make decisions when time is tight. The good news? You can avoid common pitfalls by planning ahead, understanding your options, and asking the right questions. In this post, we’ll explore the three biggest mistakes people make when starting the aged care journey—and give you clear steps to steer around them.
Mistake 1: Waiting Until Crisis Hits
What happens
Many people put off exploring aged care support until there’s an emergency—a hospital admission, a health scare, or a sudden decline in daily living skills. At that point, decisions must be made quickly, options are limited, and stress is sky-high.
Why it’s costly
Limited choice: You may end up in the first available service rather than the best-fit provider.
Rushed decisions: You don’t have time to compare care options, ask questions, or prepare emotionally.
Higher fees: Emergency placements or last-minute arrangements can incur premium charges.
How to avoid it
Start early: Even if you or your loved one are currently coping, create a simple plan.
Download a checklist: Map out key steps—My Aged Care registration, ACAT assessment, home care vs residential care research.
Book a “just in case” chat: A brief 1:1 session with an aged care navigator can clarify your options before you need them.
Keyword focus: aged care planning, early aged care support, avoid crisis
Mistake 2: Skipping Your ACAT Assessment
What happens
The ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment is the gateway to most government-funded aged care services—Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Home Care Packages, and residential care subsidies. Skipping or delaying your ACAT means you remain ineligible for these supports.
Why it’s costly
No access to subsidies: You’ll miss out on subsidised care, and end up paying full fees.
Longer wait times: Assessments can take weeks or months to schedule; delaying means further waiting.
Inadequate support: Without an approved level of care, you may not receive the assistance you actually need.
How to avoid it
Arrange ACAT immediately: Call My Aged Care (1800 200 422) or book online as soon as you consider aged care.
Prepare documentation: Have medical reports, medication lists, and daily living difficulties ready.
Have a support person: Invite a friend or advocate to the assessment to help you ask questions and take notes.
Keyword focus: ACAT assessment, My Aged Care eligibility, government-funded aged care
Mistake 3: Not Researching Home vs Residential Options
What happens
Many assume that moving into residential aged care is the only solution once care is needed. They overlook the range of home-based services—CHSP, Home Care Packages, private care—that can maintain independence and quality of life.
Why it’s costly
Loss of independence: You may move into a facility earlier than necessary.
Emotional impact: An unwanted residential move can cause stress, anxiety, and reduced well-being.
Financial trade-off: Residential care often involves large accommodation deposits (RADs) and daily fees, whereas home care packages can be more flexible and cost-effective.
How to avoid it
Make a side-by-side comparison: List pros and cons of home care vs residential care for your situation.
Ask providers detailed questions: What services are included? How flexible are care hours? What additional costs apply?
Seek independent advice: Aged care navigators can explain the differences and help you choose the right pathway.
Keyword focus: home care vs residential care, Home Care Packages, CHSP
Next Steps: Take Control of Your Aged Care Journey
Avoiding these three mistakes will put you in the driver’s seat:
Plan early—don’t wait for a crisis.
Complete your ACAT assessment—access subsidised supports.
Compare all care options—choose who and what truly fits your needs. Interview, ask questions and find the right fit.
At Brightway, we specialise in independent aged care navigation, offering personalised 1:1 support to help you understand My Aged Care, prepare for assessments, and select the best care pathway. Our guidance saves you hours of research, reduces stress, and ensures you access the right services—fast.
Ready to get started?
Call for an intro chat today and take the first step toward confident, informed aged care planning.
