I became, in my own mind, part of this family. And they've looked after me with all my needs and it's made me very happy.
– Geoffrey
Motor neurone disease (MND) is a life-altering neurodegenerative condition that creates enormous physical, emotional and psychological challenges for those affected. Because of its degenerative nature, those living with the illness require constant care and support, especially as symptoms change over time.
At MACG, our palliative care professionals provide residents diagnosed with MND emotional support, emergency services, personal care, family support, and more.
We’re happy to answer any questions you have.
As those suffering with motor neurone disease slowly lose the ability to move and speak, they require compassionate care and emotional support. This is what our team at MACG specialises in, as we help our residents navigate through early symptoms, muscle weakness, life decision-making, and offer emotional support to the entire family.
Tailored support for each resident's needs
We keep core family values at the heart of our organisation
We offer complete honesty and transparency
Our team is constantly training and learning
Here is your guide to understanding aged care home fees.
In every aged care home, a basic daily fee is paid on top of your accommodation cost. This fee covers your basic living needs, including meals, laundry and cleaning, and utility costs like power and telecommunications.
The Australian Government sets a maximum basic daily fee that aged care homes can charge, currently set at $63.57 a day or $23,203.05 per year.
Services Australia sets this fee at 85% of a single Age Pension. The basic daily fee is the same for everyone (even if they don’t receive an Age Pension) and is increased twice a year, March 20th and September 20th, to match the rising cost of living.
Once you submit an Income and Asset Assessment through Centrelink, you will not only be assessed on whether you are eligible for any subsidies but you’ll also be assessed on whether the means-tested care fee is applicable.
If you have to pay the income-tested care fee, it means the government has determined you need to pay extra towards your day-to-day care, but only if you can afford it. Whether this fee applies to you is dependent on your financial situation and if you have a higher level of assets or income. The means-tested care fee will be between $0 and $259.26 per day.
It can take the government some time to calculate the amount you may need to pay for the means-tested care fee. Therefore, you and the aged care home you choose will be notified by letter when the price has been calculated, and payment will be backdated to the date you entered into care.
All aged care providers can charge fees for your accommodation to cover the home's maintenance costs and amenities. Each nursing home sets this daily accommodation price, and it is advertised clearly in the accommodation cost. At MACG, our daily accommodation rate ranges between $45.92 and $183.67.
Many factors influence aged care accommodation costs, including the room size and type, facilities available and property prices. The Income and Asset Assessment will determine whether the Australian Government will subsidise this fee or fully pay for your accommodation costs based on your income earnings and assets.
Many aged care homes in Melbourne offer additional services, similar to a hotel experience. Some common additional services include beauty and hairdressing, satellite television, internet, gyms, pools, workshops and alcohol.
Some aged care homes may allow you to pick and choose the services you want, so you only pay for what you use, whereas others may have an additional package.
These service fees are set by the aged care provider and aren’t subsidised by the government. Therefore, it’s best to consider these as out-of-pocket costs you will need to cover.
Many aged care homes provide extra services that allow residents to upgrade their stay. Things that may be part of an extra service package include extended menus and drink options, higher quality linens and room furnishings.
Extra services usually come in a bundle and can either apply to specific room types or an entire retirement village. These extra services are not government subsidised.
The government provides a few aged care subsidy programs to assist residents who struggle to afford aged care support. The main program you can apply for is Financial Hardship Assistance. If you are eligible, the Australian Government will assist in paying some or all of your aged care fees (this includes respite care). Find out if you are eligible for Financial Hardship Assistance.
We take pride in knowing that our aged care professionals are ready to assist with any support needs as the resident’s motor neurone disease progresses. As this can be a tricky and difficult time for both the resident and their family, we ensure that the appropriate support is given and that all relevant medical equipment is provided. Contact us today to learn more.
Whether you need palliative or respite care, our nursing home and motor neurone disease specialists can provide residents with an overall support plan which will be beneficial as symptoms progress.
We are determined to help those diagnosed with MND to live the rest of their lives in stable conditions where they feel happy, comfortable, and safe.
Our nursing homes include everything needed to live comfortably, especially for those suffering from MND.
We offer various recreational and lifestyle activities to keep residents active and healthy.
Residents are encouraged to volunteer at local community events with friends and family. Our team will provide the care needed to help make this happen.
The Income and Asset Assessment is a means test set by the Australian Government to decide if you are eligible for a Commonwealth subsidy for part or all of your aged care home fees.
In this means test, your income and assets are evaluated. What is considered ‘income’ includes but is not limited to financial investments, age, disability or service pensions, income support payments, bonds, shares, your superannuation, family trusts and super funds.
Assets include properties you own (including your own home), investment properties, private or partnered businesses, and more. You will be asked a range of questions regarding your income and assets to determine your eligibility for subsidies.
You can complete the Income and Assets Assessment online through My Aged Care.
The assessment is broken down into three steps and is fairly quick to complete. The same form is used for all support types, whether you’re looking for short or long-term care or support in the home.
To complete the assessment, you will need your Medicare card. You can also organise for a representative to complete the application on your behalf.
The online assessment should not take longer than 20 minutes of your time. However, after submitting the assessment, you will receive a call to arrange a complete evaluation and review of your application.
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There are three different ways you can pay your aged care fees:
MACG’s preferred method of payment is via direct debit. Therefore, a direct debit form will be provided to you during the pre-admissions meeting.
Monthly statements are issued to permanent residents (or their representatives) at the beginning of the month and detail the debit amount. This direct debit is processed on the 15th of every month (bar public holidays or weekends in which the payment will be taken the following business day).
If you have any questions about the admissions process, cost of care, or would like to book a tour, please contact our Admissions Team.
Boronia
Our residents enjoy a warm, homelike atmosphere at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges.
Carrum Downs
Our residents live happy and fulfilled lives, and we help each person to achieve their best lifestyle.
Narre Warren
Read a good book in front of the warm fireplaces or explore the peaceful, landscaped gardens.
Narre Warren South
Our residents enjoy the beautiful gardens and a range of on-site facilities, including the chicken coop.
Ashwood
In the leafy suburb of Ashwood you will find Grand Cedar Aged Care. See for yourself what makes it special.
Coburg
Residents here appreciate the homelike atmosphere and enjoy the sun in the beautiful outdoor spaces.
Hughesdale
A warm and welcoming environment featuring old-world charm along with modern facilities.
Parkdale
This coastal home features views of Port Philip Bay and courtyards for our residents to enjoy.
Traralgon
Residents cherish the intimate relationships they have with the care team and the wider community.
Caring for someone with MND requires patience and a well-structured support system. This may include other family members, friends, doctors, nurses, and even an aged home that offers quality palliative care.
Caring for an MND resident, especially if they are elderly, may require acts such as managing fatigue, alleviating pain, special meal preparation, encouraging speech and communication, and more. At MACG, our expert staff can help make the caring process easier for your family and the resident in need.
Motor neurone disease will significantly decrease someone’s life expectancy and eventually lead to the end of life. While there is no cure for MND, there are ways to help the impact it has on a resident’s day-to-day life. With the proper care and support, we aim to help our residents find satisfaction and fulfilment when they leave. This is done through many exciting activities and emotional support when needed.
Due to its complexity and progressive nature, elderly residents diagnosed with MND will require palliative care. Palliative care is the active and holistic care of people with progressive illnesses. At MACG, our aged care homes are equipped with the equipment, tools, and trained professionals to provide residents with MND the appropriate palliative care during their diagnosis. Talk to us today for more about our palliative care methods.
If you find you’re unable to afford residential aged care costs, there are a number of avenues you can explore for assistance. If your Income and Asset Assessment determines you can’t afford aged care services, the Australian Government can provide subsidies for aged care support.
You may be eligible for Financial Hardship Assistance to partially or fully cover the basic daily fee, means-tested care fee and accommodation costs. Each case is assessed individually and depends on the type of care you need.
You can also consult with a Financial Information Services (FIS) representative. The FIS is an entirely free Australian Government program that helps you make informed decisions about your finances.
If you require assistance or more information, please contact any of the departments below.
You may also wish to gain specialist advice from an Aged Care Financial Planner to restructure your finances to your best advantage when entering care.
If you have any questions about us or our residential aged care homes, we would love to help.
