For many of us over 45 years and living with HIV, we’re starting to feel a little creaky or slower and many of us are living with a range of different health conditions (diabetes, arthritis, hypertension etc). Cold weather can make it a little harder to get going in the morning, and the list of things that need doing around the place starts to feel longer than ever. This is where Positive Life’s Ageing Support program might be helpful. As a person 45 years or older living with HIV, you’re entitled to a number of supports that make your life easier.
For anyone who’s asked what Positive Life Ageing Support does or who are part of the program, one of the first things they hear is the term ‘Home Care package’. This is shorthand for financial assistance from the Federal Government to keep you living at home. The longer you can live independently in your own home, the better it is for everyone, including the Government.
If you are eligible, the funding you could get through a Home Care Package can be spent on a whole range of things. From equipment to minor home modifications, to paying for community or care services like mowing the lawn, helping you get to the shops and get your groceries, vacuuming, laundry and cleaning, or transport to and from medical appointments. You’re entitled to stay at home for as long as you can with support from the federal government.
We’re not all the same, so Home Care Packages are different from person to person. Packages are individualised according to need. Funds in each package is split across levels depending on the level of assistance you might need.
Some people have their own transport and just need some support to get to the local pool, exercise class or physio. Other people love to cook and only want fortnightly cleaning and a little garden maintenance. Sometimes adding some rails in the bathroom, or easy access taps can make all the difference in your place.
Even if you need more support like personal care support with bathing or dressing, this is exactly what a Home Care package is for. No one wants to go into an aged care facility or a hospital. The longer you can stay in your own home, the more comfortable and happy you’ll be.
Give Positive Life a call and speak with the Ageing Support Officer to start a conversation about making your life easier. Together we can work out what you want and need, to keep you living independently at home for as long as possible.
We’ll be there with you throughout the application process, and support you with all the paperwork and bureaucracy. We’ll make sure you get what you need and support you to find the right service providers to meet your needs.
Depending on coronavirus restrictions, we can meet up in person, on the phone or virtually, and start the conversation about what you might be entitled to. Let’s find out what you can get assistance with, and what your Home Care package could look like. Even if you’re not eligible for a Government funded package, together we can work out what services are around that suit you.
Whether you’re 45 or 65 living with HIV, now is always the best time to get the ball rolling on the things you want and need to get on in life.
To find out what’s available, contact Positive Life NSW on (02) 8357 8386, 1800 245 677 (freecall outside metro areas), or email contact@positivelife.org.au.
Further reading:
