• S – Sense → Notice how you feel physically and emotionally.

    E – Express → Share needs, feelings, or worries with others.

    L – Listen → Pay attention to your body and your limits.

    F – Focus → Recognise what matters most to you right now. rights and obligations, entitlments, things to consider.

  • Screening Checklist

    Purpose: to notice and record changes in physical, mental, and emotional health so action can be taken early.

    Physical Health

    1. Recent falls – Have you fallen in the past 6–12 months?

    2. Mobility – Any new difficulty walking, climbing steps, or getting up from a chair?

    3. Strength & balance – Feeling unsteady, dizzy, or weaker than usual?

    4. Pain – New or worsening pain that affects daily activities?

    5. Weight change – Unplanned loss or gain of more than 3–4kg in the last 6 months?

    6. Nutrition – Skipping meals or difficulty preparing/eating food?

    7. Continence – Any changes in bladder or bowel control?

    Sensory Health

    1. Vision – Blurry vision, trouble reading, or difficulty recognising faces?

    2. Hearing – Difficulty following conversations, especially in groups or noisy areas?

    3. Speech – Changes in clarity, speed, or ability to find words?

    Cognitive & Mental Health

    1. Memory – Forgetting appointments, names, or daily tasks more often?

    2. Decision-making – Difficulty following recipes, managing bills, or understanding instructions?

    3. Mood – Feeling sad, anxious, lonely, or irritable most days?

    4. Motivation – Loss of interest in hobbies or social contact?

    5. Sleep – Poor sleep quality, trouble falling asleep, or waking often?

    Daily Function

    1. Self-care – Any new difficulty bathing, dressing, grooming, or toileting?

    2. Household tasks – Trouble with cleaning, laundry, cooking, or shopping?

    3. Transport – Difficulty driving, using public transport, or arranging lifts?

    Environment & Safety

    1. Home hazards – Loose mats, poor lighting, cluttered walkways?

    2. Emergency readiness – Have emergency contacts, a phone within reach, and know who to call?

    3. Security – Feeling safe in your home and neighbourhood?

    If you said yes to more then 3 items, book a GP review and consider requesting a My Aged Care assessment for early supports.

    Helpful Links:

    • My Aged Care – Get assessed

    • Better Health Channel – Falls prevention

    • Healthdirect Symptom Checker

    • C – Connection → Stay socially linked (friends, carers, groups).

    • A – Activity → Keep moving in ways that suit your ability.

    • R – Routine → Build simple daily habits that give stability.

    • E – Enjoyment → Make time for joy, laughter, and interests.

  • S – Supports → Use carers, counsellors, and networks.

    O – Options → Explore services ( aged care packages, local groups, goverment, local councils).

    L – Learning → Gain new skills or knowledge for independence.

    U – Understanding → Know your rights, choices, and pathways.

    T – Tools → Practical aids (tech, mobility, apps, reminders).

    I – Independence → Keep as much choice and control as possible.

    O – Opportunities → Engage in community, hobbies, or work if possible.

    N – Nurture → Care for your body, mind, and spirit.

    S – Safety → Build a safe home, routine, and support environment.

    This way, you’ve got a tiered model: SELF = Awareness (knowing yourself). CARE = Daily actions (practical steps).

  • S – Sense: Notice How You Feel Physically and Emotionally

    Track changes like mobility issues or loneliness, common in diverse communities. Why important? Sensing early qualifies for supports under the new Act from November 2025, like home modifications for safety. In Melbourne, winters exacerbate joint pain—sense this to access physio via My Aged Care. Multicultural tip: If English isn't your first language, use TIS for assessments.

    Journal feelings: Note physical/emotional changes weekly, including cultural stressors like family separation.

    Check eligibility: Use My Aged Care tool (multilingual brochures available).

    Explore supports: Contact AMCS at (03) 9689 9170 for multicultural home care awareness.

    Mental health check: If feeling low, call Lifeline 13 11 14—tailored for elderly.

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Stage 1: S.E.L.F. (Awareness) – Knowing Yourself and Your Needs

This stage focuses on self-awareness, the foundation for accessing My Aged Care. It's like taking a moment to check in with yourself before diving in. Why important? Many adults in Melbourne delay seeking help because they don't recognize early signs of needing support, leading to isolation or health issues.

Building awareness helps you qualify for services sooner, improving quality of life.

S – Sense: Notice How You Feel Physically and Emotionally

Understand your daily challenges, like difficulty with chores, mobility, or feeling lonely. In My Aged Care, this helps identify if you need in home help or emotional support or both.

Why important? Sensing changes early prevents small issues from becoming big ones, like falls or depression common in Melbourne's aging population where winters can worsen mobility.

Welcome to Selfcare Solutions: Your Guide to My Aged Care in Melbourne - Stage 1: SELF (Awareness)

Hello! This section is dedicated to building awareness for older adults over 65 in Melbourne, embracing diversity and multiculturalism. My Aged Care is Australia's system for government-funded services to support independence at home or in care. We've made it inclusive for all backgrounds, including culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. Why focus on awareness? For many seniors, especially from migrant backgrounds, navigating aged care feels foreign—early awareness helps access supports sooner, maintaining independence and cultural connections. Key upcoming changes: From 1 November 2025, the new Aged Care Act 2024 starts, introducing the Support at Home program (replacing Home Care Packages) for more flexible in-home help, better decision-making supports, and stronger rights. Prepare now by calling My Aged Care at 1800 200 422 (multilingual via Translating and Interpreting Service - TIS National on 131 450). For emergencies, dial 000. Mental health support: Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis and suicide prevention, multilingual available). Victorian specifics: Contact Seniors Rights Victoria at 1300 368 821 for advocacy. Tick items as you go—progress saves in your browser.

Stage 1: S.E.L.F. (Awareness) – Knowing Yourself and Your Needs

This stage helps over-65s from all cultures build self-awareness to access My Aged Care. Policies: Eligibility starts at 65 (50+ for First Nations), with free assessments via Regional Assessment Service (RAS) in Victoria for basic needs or ACAT for comprehensive. Procedures: 4 steps—learn care types, get assessed, find providers, manage services. Rights: Charter of Aged Care Rights ensures dignity, choice, and cultural respect. Why important? Awareness prevents isolation, especially in multicultural Melbourne where language barriers affect 40% of seniors—early steps promote independence. Join support groups like AMCS multicultural groups or COTA Victoria for peer knowledge. For CALD: Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing offers resources in 50+ languages.

S – Sense: Notice How You Feel Physically and Emotionally

Track changes like mobility issues or loneliness, common in diverse communities. Why important? Sensing early qualifies for supports under the new Act from November 2025, like home modifications for safety. In Melbourne, winters exacerbate joint pain—sense this to access physio via My Aged Care. Multicultural tip: If English isn't your first language, use TIS for assessments.

  • Journal feelings: Note physical/emotional changes weekly, including cultural stressors like family separation.
  • Check eligibility: Use My Aged Care tool (multilingual brochures available).
  • Explore supports: Contact AMCS at (03) 9689 9170 for multicultural home care awareness.
  • Mental health check: If feeling low, call Lifeline 13 11 14—tailored for elderly.

E – Express: Share Needs, Feelings, or Worries with Others

Talk openly—vital in collectivist cultures. Why important? Expressing leads to referrals; under new policies, supported decision-making starts November 2025 for those needing help communicating choices. In Melbourne, GPs can refer to Victorian ACAT teams. For CALD: Diverse Care offers interpreters.

  • Share with family: Discuss worries in your language—note input.
  • GP consult: Get referral; find multilingual GPs via health.vic.gov.au.
  • Join groups: City of Melbourne seniors events (multicultural) at programs page.
  • Crisis support: For suicidal thoughts, call 000 or Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.

L – Listen: Pay Attention to Your Body and Your Limits

Respect limits to stay independent. Why important? Listening informs assessments under the new Support at Home program (November 2025), funding aids like walkers. Melbourne's diverse suburbs: Public transport limits? Access community transport via councils. Multicultural: Fronditha Care for Greek seniors.

  • Daily check-in: Note fatigue patterns, including cultural dietary impacts.
  • Prep assessment: List limits for Victorian RAS/ACAT at assessment services.
  • Seek knowledge: Join EACH social programs for independence tips.
  • Emergency: If health crisis, 000; for mental limits, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 (multilingual).

F – Focus: Recognise What Matters Most to You Right Now

Prioritize cultural values like family or traditions. Why important? Person-centered care in the new Act emphasizes choices, helping tailor services for independence. In Melbourne, focus on staying home? Home at Last (Housing for the Aged) advises on housing. CALD: MAC for cultural inclusion training.

  • List priorities: E.g., cultural festivals, family visits.
  • Vision: Link to aids via My Aged Care resources in your language.
  • Revisit: Weekly, consult COTA at COTA Victoria for wellbeing info.
  • Build knowledge: Attend Merri-bek Council clubs for over-65s.

Progress through this to gain knowledge—organizations like healthAbility offer groups for independence. For more, explore Seniors Online Victoria. Stay empowered!

Stage 2: C.A.R.E. (Actions) – Practical Steps to Get Started

Now that you're aware, take actions to connect with My Aged Care. This stage is about daily habits to build momentum. Why important? Actions turn awareness into real help—delaying can mean waiting lists in busy Melbourne areas. Tick these for progress.

C – Connection: Stay Socially Linked (Friends, Carers, Groups)

Reach out regularly to avoid isolation.

Why important? Connections provide emotional support and practical advice on My Aged Care. In Melbourne, local groups can link you to services faster.

Welcome to Selfcare Solutions: Your Guide to My Aged Care in Melbourne - Stage 2: C.A.R.E. (Actions)

Hello! This section builds on awareness to focus on practical actions for over-65s in Melbourne's diverse communities. My Aged Care supports daily habits to maintain independence, with multilingual options via TIS National (131 450). Why actions? They turn knowledge into habits, reducing isolation in multicultural settings—e.g., 40% of Melbourne seniors face language barriers. Upcoming: From 1 November 2025, the Aged Care Act 2024 introduces Support at Home, merging programs for flexible in-home aid, better rights, and independence focus. Call My Aged Care 1800 200 422 for prep. Emergencies: 000. Mental health: Lifeline 13 11 14 (multilingual), ARCVic Helpline 9830 0566 for anxiety support. Elder abuse: Seniors Rights Victoria 1300 368 821. Organizations: AMCS for multicultural home care, healthAbility for seniors support, COTA Victoria for advocacy, OPAN for aged care rights. Tick actions—progress saves.

Stage 2: C.A.R.E. (Actions) – Practical Steps to Get Started

Take daily actions to connect with My Aged Care while building habits. Policies: After assessment, access packages (levels 1-4); from November 2025, Support at Home offers flexible funding. Procedures: Register online or call, get assessed via Victorian RAS/ACAT. Why important? Actions prevent decline, especially in CALD groups—join multicultural supports like MAC for training. Support groups: Spectrum Social Groups, City of Melbourne programs, CO.AS.IT Italian groups. For independence: LiveUp online tips, Red Cross aged care.

C – Connection: Stay Socially Linked (Friends, Carers, Groups)

Build links to combat loneliness. Why important? Connections aid My Aged Care navigation; new Act emphasizes community engagement from November 2025. In Melbourne, join ethnic groups via ECCV. Multicultural: AMCS social groups in multiple languages. Call ARCVic if anxiety hinders connecting.

  • Weekly contact: Call family/friends, share aged care plans.
  • Join groups: Via Seniors Online or Merri-bek clubs.
  • Register My Aged Care: Call 1800 200 422 or contact page.
  • Multicultural link: AMCS at website for carers.
  • Support: OPAN advocacy 1800 700 600.

A – Activity: Keep Moving in Ways That Suit Your Ability

Gentle movement for health. Why important? Qualifies for physio under new Support at Home; prevents falls in diverse suburbs. Multicultural: Tai Chi via Access HC groups. If mobility low, contact healthAbility.

  • Daily walk: 10 mins in parks, track energy.
  • Adapted: Chair yoga online or Qi Gong groups.
  • Prep assessment: Note for Victorian ACAT services.
  • Join: Spectrum activities here.
  • Mental boost: If anxious, ARCVic support.

R – Routine: Build Simple Daily Habits That Give Stability

Consistent schedules for security. Why important? Routines inform assessments; new Act funds habit supports from November 2025. Multicultural: Include cultural meals via Diverse Care. Use COTA resources for tips.

  • Meal planning: Nutritious, cultural recipes.
  • Morning ritual: Awareness check from Stage 1.
  • Reminders: Calendar or apps; learn via LiveUp site.
  • Support: Red Cross home visits info.
  • Abuse check: If unstable, Seniors Rights Victoria hotline.

E – Enjoyment: Make Time for Joy, Laughter, and Interests

Pursue hobbies for wellbeing. Why important? Boosts mental health, funded via social programs in new Act. In Melbourne, trivia/walking groups via Access HC. Multicultural: Ethnic clubs via ECCV. If low mood, Lifeline or ARCVic.

  • Hobby time: 30 mins daily, e.g., reading.
  • Laughter: Funny content or friends.
  • Events: Victorian health support page or City of Melbourne programs.
  • Multicultural: CO.AS.IT groups here.
  • Knowledge: COTA wellbeing info link.

Take these actions to stay informed—explore more via MAC site for CALD resources. Stay connected!

Stage 3: S.O.L.U.T.I.O.N.S. (Supports) – Building Long-Term Strategies

With awareness and actions in place, explore supports via My Aged Care. This stage covers bigger systems. Why important? Supports ensure sustainability—Melbourne has many providers, but knowing options prevents gaps. Tick these for empowerment.

S – Supports: Use Carers, Counsellors, and Networks

Access professional help.

Why important? Supports fill gaps, like carer visits, reducing family burden in Melbourne's spread-out suburbs.

Find local carers: Use myagedcare.gov.au/find-a-provider for Melbourne options.

Welcome to Selfcare Solutions: Your Guide to My Aged Care in Melbourne

Hello! At Selfcare Solutions, we're here to make navigating aged care simple and supportive, especially for older adults in Melbourne. My Aged Care is Australia's national system for accessing government-funded aged care services, like help at home or residential care. If you're new to this—it can feel overwhelming, like learning a new language. Where do you start? What do you need?

We've built this framework around three layers to guide you like a friendly checklist. Start at Stage 1: SELF to build awareness of your needs. Move to Stage 2: CARE for daily actions to get started. Then, reach Stage 3: SOLUTIONS for long-term supports. Each section is expandable with drop-downs, and you can tick off items as you complete them. Your progress saves in your browser for next time.

This is tailored for Melbourne: We'll highlight local Victoria assessment options, contacts, and how to find nearby providers. Remember, services are free to assess, and you can call My Aged Care anytime at 1800 200 422 for help. Or visit the My Aged Care homepage.

Stage 1: S.E.L.F. (Awareness) – Knowing Yourself and Your Needs

This stage focuses on self-awareness, the foundation for accessing My Aged Care. Why important? Early awareness helps access services sooner, preventing issues like isolation in Melbourne's urban environment.

S – Sense: Notice How You Feel Physically and Emotionally

Understand your daily challenges, like difficulty with chores, mobility, or feeling lonely. Why important? Sensing changes early prevents small issues from becoming big ones, like falls or depression—common in Melbourne's aging population where winters can worsen mobility.

  • Track your feelings: Keep a simple journal for a week noting physical (e.g., tired after shopping) or emotional (e.g., missing social chats) changes.
  • Self-check eligibility: Visit the My Aged Care eligibility tool to see if you're over 65 (or 50+ for First Nations) and might qualify.
  • Reflect: Ask, "Do I need help to stay independent at home?"

E – Express: Share Needs, Feelings, or Worries with Others

Talk to family, friends, or a GP about your concerns. Why important? Expressing needs reduces stress and gets you referrals faster—GPs in Melbourne often guide patients to My Aged Care, making the process smoother.

  • Chat with loved ones: Share one worry, like "I'm struggling with meals," and note their input.
  • Consult a professional: Book a GP appointment to discuss aged care; they can refer you directly.
  • Join a local group: Look for Melbourne senior centers via City of Melbourne seniors page for casual talks.

L – Listen: Pay Attention to Your Body and Your Limits

Tune into signals like fatigue or pain, and respect them. Why important? Listening prevents injuries, which could lead to hospital stays. In My Aged Care, this info helps assessors match services to your real limits, like mobility aids in Melbourne's hilly suburbs.

  • Daily check-in: Pause each evening—did today feel too much? Note patterns.
  • Health review: List limits (e.g., can't drive far) to prepare for assessments via Victorian My Aged Care assessments.
  • Rest when needed: Start small, like shorter walks, and track improvements.

F – Focus: Recognise What Matters Most to You Right Now

Prioritize goals, like staying at home or seeing grandkids more. Why important? Focusing ensures services align with your values, boosting happiness. My Aged Care emphasizes person-centered care, so knowing priorities helps tailor packages.

  • List top 3: Write what matters (e.g., independence, family time).
  • Vision board: Note dreams, like "Garden without pain," linking to potential aids.
  • Revisit weekly: Adjust as needs change.
Stage 2: C.A.R.E. (Actions) – Practical Steps to Get Started

Now that you're aware, take actions to connect with My Aged Care. Why important? Actions turn awareness into real help—delaying can mean waiting lists in busy Melbourne areas.

C – Connection: Stay Socially Linked (Friends, Carers, Groups)

Reach out regularly to avoid isolation. Why important? Connections provide emotional support and practical advice on My Aged Care. In Melbourne, local groups can link you to services faster.

  • Call a friend weekly: Share updates on your aged care thoughts.
  • Join a Melbourne group: Search "senior activities Melbourne" or contact councils for clubs via Seniors Online Victoria.
  • My Aged Care contact: Call 1800 200 422 or visit contact page to register and chat with an advisor.

A – Activity: Keep Moving in Ways That Suit Your Ability

Incorporate gentle exercise. Why important? Activity maintains health, qualifying you for My Aged Care supports like physio. Melbourne's parks make this accessible, preventing decline.

  • Daily walk: Start with 10 minutes in a local park.
  • Adapted exercises: Try chair yoga videos online.
  • Track: Note how movement affects your energy for assessment prep.

R – Routine: Build Simple Daily Habits That Give Stability

Create consistent schedules. Why important? Routines provide security, helping assessors see your needs clearly in My Aged Care applications.

  • Set meal times: Plan easy, nutritious meals.
  • Morning ritual: Include a check-in from Stage 1.
  • Reminder tools: Use a calendar for habits.

E – Enjoyment: Make Time for Joy, Laughter, and Interests

Pursue hobbies. Why important? Enjoyment boosts mental health, which My Aged Care supports through respite or social programs—vital in urban Melbourne.

  • Hobby time: Dedicate 30 minutes daily (e.g., reading).
  • Laugh daily: Watch funny shows or call a humorous friend.
  • Community events: Check Melbourne libraries or Victorian health support for free senior events.
Stage 3: S.O.L.U.T.I.O.N.S. (Supports) – Building Long-Term Strategies

With awareness and actions in place, explore supports via My Aged Care. Why important? Supports ensure sustainability—Melbourne has many providers, but knowing options prevents gaps.

S – Supports: Use Carers, Counsellors, and Networks

Access professional help. Why important? Supports fill gaps, like carer visits, reducing family burden in Melbourne's spread-out suburbs.

O – Options: Explore Services (NDIS, Aged Care Packages, Local Groups)

Review available programs. Why important? Options like Home Care Packages (levels 1-4) match needs—explore early to avoid waits.

L – Learning: Gain New Skills or Knowledge for Independence

Educate yourself. Why important? Learning empowers choices, like using apps for reminders, enhancing My Aged Care outcomes.

  • Online resources: Download booklets at My Aged Care resources.
  • Workshops: Look for Melbourne adult education on aged care.
  • Skill build: Learn basic tech for online portals.

U – Understanding: Know Your Rights, Choices, and Pathways

Grasp the system. Why important? Understanding rights (e.g., Charter of Aged Care Rights) ensures fair treatment in assessments.

T – Tools: Practical Aids (Tech, Mobility, Apps, Reminders)

Get helpful items. Why important? Tools like walkers or apps maintain independence, funded via My Aged Care packages.

  • Assess needs: List tools during your assessment.
  • Apps: Try My Aged Care portal for managing services.
  • Local suppliers: Search Melbourne mobility stores.

I – Independence: Keep as Much Choice and Control as Possible

Maintain autonomy. Why important? Independence is core to My Aged Care's person-centered approach, improving satisfaction.

  • Choice in care: Select providers via finder tool.
  • Self-manage: Opt for self-managed packages if able.
  • Review regularly: Update plans as needed.

O – Opportunities: Engage in Community, Hobbies, or Work if Possible

Seek involvement. Why important? Opportunities combat loneliness, with My Aged Care funding social activities in Melbourne.

  • Community events: Join via local councils.
  • Hobbies: Use packages for transport to classes.
  • Volunteer: If interested, check senior volunteer programs.

N – Nurture: Care for Your Body, Mind, and Spirit

Holistic self-care. Why important? Nurturing sustains health, making you eligible for ongoing My Aged Care support.

  • Body: Eat well, sleep.
  • Mind: Read or puzzle.
  • Spirit: Meditate or connect spiritually.

S – Safety: Build a Safe Home, Routine, and Support Environment

Ensure security. Why important? Safety prevents accidents, with My Aged Care funding home modifications in Melbourne.

  • Home check: Identify hazards like loose rugs.
  • Routine safety: Include emergency contacts.
  • Supports: Request modifications via Victorian residential aged care.

Thank you for using Selfcare Solutions! If you tick through these, you'll be informed and ready. For personalized help, contact My Aged Care or your GP. Share feedback on our site. Stay well!