If someone you love has been diagnosed with dementia, you’re probably feeling worried, confused, and maybe even fearful about what comes next. It’s about helping someone you care about live safely, comfortably, and with dignity in their own home.
In a city as big and busy as Sydney, finding the right help for dementia care at home can feel overwhelming. The truth is, more and more families are now looking for dementia care in Sydney that goes beyond basic support.
This blog is here to make things a little easier. We’ll walk you through what dementia home care packages actually mean, what support is available, and how funding works, so you can focus less on paperwork and more on being there for your family.
What Is Dementia and Why Is In-Home Care So Important?
Dementia is a condition that affects how the brain works. It causes memory loss, confusion, and changes in how a person thinks, behaves, or feels.
Over time, it can become harder for someone with dementia to do everyday things like getting dressed, making meals, or remembering important people and events.
There are different types of dementia, but Alzheimer’s is the most common.
Dementia gets worse over time. This can be tough for both the person living with it and their family. But one thing that can make a big difference is familiar surroundings.
Staying at home can help a person feel more at ease. They know where things are, they recognise the faces around them, and they can hold on to a sense of independence for longer.
That’s why many families in Sydney are choosing in-home care services, especially during the early to middle stages of dementia.
In-home dementia care gives people the safety and support they need, and the comfort of being in their own space. It also allows families to stay close and involved without being overwhelmed by all the care responsibilities alone.
What Does In-Home Dementia Care Involve?
In-home dementia care is tailored to meet the changing needs of the person as their condition advances. Here’s what a typical dementia care package at home might include:
1. Daily Personal Care
Care workers can help with important day-to-day tasks like bathing, brushing teeth, getting dressed, and using the bathroom.
2. Medication Management and Nursing Support
In-home nurses or carers can make sure medications are given safely and on time, helping to avoid mistakes that could affect health.
3. Cognitive Stimulation and Companionship
Keeping the brain active is important; even small things like puzzles, music, reading, or chatting can help slow down cognitive decline. Carers often provide one-on-one companionship, offering a friendly face and meaningful conversations that brighten the day.
3. Meal Preparation and Household Tasks
In-home carers can prepare nutritious meals, assist with feeding if needed, and even handle light household chores like laundry and tidying up.
4. Safety Monitoring and Mobility Support
Carers help ensure a safe home environment by checking for hazards, assisting with walking or transfers, and monitoring overall well-being.
5. Emotional Support for Everyone
Carers also support family members by sharing updates, listening with empathy, and giving loved ones a much-needed break when they need it most.
In short, in-home dementia care is about supporting the whole person in body, mind, and spirit, and helping families navigate the journey with care and confidence.
What Are The Different Types of Dementia Home Care Packages?
When someone is living with dementia, their needs can change over time, and so can the type of support they require. That’s where Australia’s Home Care Packages (HCP) program can help. It’s a government-funded system designed to support older Australians who want to stay at home rather than move into a care facility.
There are four levels of Home Care Packages, each offering different amounts of funding depending on the person’s needs:
- Level 1: For people with basic care needs, maybe just a few hours of help each week.
- Level 2: For people who need a bit more day-to-day support.
- Level 3: For those with intermediate needs, like regular care and supervision.
- Level 4: For people with high-level care requirements, which is often where people with advanced dementia may fall.
If your loved one has dementia, the package level they receive will depend on how much help they need.
So, what services are included in a Home Care Package?
These can include:
- Personal care (like help with showering or dressing)
- Nursing and medication management
- Transport to appointments
- Meal preparation
- Cleaning and gardening
- Equipment like shower chairs or walking frames
- Dementia-specific support, such as cognitive stimulation activities
The great thing is that care plans are tailored to each person’s situation. After an assessment, a care coordinator will help design a package that meets your loved one’s physical, emotional, and social needs, making sure they get the right type of dementia care in Sydney.
How to Apply for a Home Care Package for Dementia Support
Applying for a Home Care Package might seem complicated at first, but once you understand the steps, it becomes much more manageable. Here’s a simple way to get started:
Step 1: Start with My Aged Care
Visit the My Aged Care website or call at 1800 200 422. This is the Australian Government’s main entry point for aged care services, including dementia care.
Step 2: Book an ACAT (or ACAS) Assessment
After contacting My Aged Care, your loved one will need to go through an Aged Care Assessment, also called ACAT (or ACAS in Victoria). A trained health professional will visit your home to assess the person’s health, memory, mobility, and daily routines.
This helps determine the level of care needed and which Home Care Package is suitable.
Step 3: Prepare for the Assessment
Before the visit, it helps to:
- Write down all the challenges your loved one faces (e.g. confusion, wandering, forgetfulness).
- Note how much help they need with things like bathing, cooking, and remembering medication.
- Be honest and detailed.
It’s okay to feel nervous during the assessment. But remember, it’s not a test. It’s a way to get your loved one the help they need to stay safe and comfortable at home.
Step 4: Waitlist and Interim Support
After the assessment, you may need to wait a few months for a Home Care Package to become available. During this time, you can apply for short-term support under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). This can help fill the gap while you’re waiting.
It’s also a good time to explore local dementia care providers in Sydney who can offer private services or guide you through the process. Some families choose to pay for temporary in-home care during the waiting period, especially if the person’s needs are urgent.
What Costs Are Covered and What You May Need to Pay
One of the most common questions families have is, “How much will dementia home care cost?” The good news is that Home Care Packages are mostly funded by the Australian Government. But there can still be some out-of-pocket costs depending on your financial situation and the care you choose.
Government Funding vs. Out-of-Pocket Costs
The government pays the bulk of the cost for approved services within your Home Care Package. This includes things like personal care, nursing, home help, transport, and dementia support.
However, you may be asked to pay a basic daily fee, which is a small contribution that helps cover ongoing care costs. Many people don’t have to pay this fee, especially if they’re on a full pension, but it’s worth checking.
There’s also something called an income-tested care fee. This is based on your income and only applies if you’re able to contribute more. Services Australia calculates this after reviewing your financial details.
Private Top-Ups and Extra Services
Sometimes families choose to add extra services that aren’t covered by the government, like more frequent visits, extra therapies, or private carers. These are paid separately, but you’re in control of what you spend.
If your Home Care Package doesn’t quite meet all your needs, you can top it up privately or combine it with other supports, like the CHSP.
Budgeting and Choosing a Provider
Each Home Care Package level comes with a set amount of annual funding. Your provider should help you create a care plan and budget that fits within that amount.
When choosing a provider for dementia care in Sydney, make sure they’re open and transparent about fees. Ask them to explain exactly what’s included and what will cost extra.
How To Choose the Right Dementia Care Provider in Sydney?
Choosing the right provider means finding someone you trust, who understands the condition, and who can offer both emotional and practical support.
Here’s what to look for:
1. Experience with Dementia Care
Ask if the provider has experience supporting people with dementia.
Are their staff trained to handle memory loss, behaviour changes, and communication difficulties?
Do they use a gentle, respectful approach?
Look for providers who focus on person-centred care, which means treating your loved one as an individual, not just a list of symptoms.
2. Availability of 24/7 Support
Dementia doesn’t follow a schedule. Some people may wander or become anxious at night. A good provider will offer flexible services and support at any hour, not just during business hours.
3. Culturally Sensitive and Inclusive Care
Sydney is a diverse city, and many families want care that respects their language, culture, and values. Look for teams that are multi-lingual, culturally aware, and able to build genuine connections with clients from all walks of life.
4. Continuity and Personalisation
Having the same familiar carers can make a big difference for someone with dementia. Continuity builds trust and reduces confusion. Also, check if the provider tailors care plans based on the person’s interests, habits, and daily routines.
5. Qualified Nursing Staff
Dementia often comes with other health issues. Having nurses on the team means your loved one gets the right medical attention at home.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing
Before you decide, it helps to ask:
- What experience do your carers have with dementia?
- How do you personalise care for each client?
- Do you offer services in our preferred language?
- Is care available after hours or on weekends?
- Can we meet the carer beforehand?
Taking time to choose the right provider gives you peace of mind and helps your loved one feel safe, seen, and supported at home.
Final Words
Caring for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming.
Choosing dementia care in Sydney means your loved one can stay in their home, while accepting the care they need. The first step is arranging a home care assessment through My Aged Care.
Take time to explore your options and find a provider that truly understands your family’s needs. With the right support, compassionate care at home isn’t just possible but powerful.
