10 signs it's time to upgrade your Home Care Package

Getting approved for a home care package is an important step in staying independent—but as your situation changes, the support you receive should too.

Whether you’re recovering from a hospital stay, feeling less confident at home, or leaning more on loved ones, these shifts could mean your current level of care no longer meets your needs.

In this guide, we’ll cover 10 signs it might be time to request a reassessment and how to get the extra help you’re entitled to.

Why reassessing your home care package is important

Home care packages are designed to grow with you—but they won’t automatically adjust unless you request a review.

A reassessment can unlock more funding, tailored services, and a higher package level that aligns with your current care needs. With the incoming Support at Home reforms, reassessments may also offer access to new government initiatives like restorative or end-of-life care, or support for home modifications.

You may be missing out on:

• Help from allied health professionals like physiotherapists or speech pathologists

• Urgent services like nursing support or mobility equipment

• Extras like meal delivery, social support, or transport

Learn more about what we offer at 365 Care.

1. You've had a hospital admission or medical incident

Coming home from hospital often means new or increased support needs—whether it’s help with medication, wound care, or everyday tasks. If your health has changed significantly, it’s time to reassess your care level.

2. Your mobility has reduced

If getting out of bed, using the stairs, or walking unaided has become difficult, a higher-level home care package could provide:

• Physiotherapy or mobility training

• Equipment like walkers or shower chairs

• Modifications to make your home safer

3. You’re leaning more on family or friends

If you’ve started asking neighbours to run errands, or your family is helping out more often than your support worker, your care plan may no longer be enough. A reassessment can help reduce that informal load and provide more consistent assistance.

4. You’re avoiding tasks due to fall risk

Fear of falling is one of the biggest reasons older Australians withdraw from daily life. If you’ve started skipping showers or avoiding certain areas of your home, you may need:

• Occupational therapy

• Home modifications like rails or ramps

• Technology to help you feel safe

5. Others have commented on your memory

Sometimes the earliest signs of cognitive decline are noticed by those around us. If people close to you have mentioned forgetfulness or confusion, it’s worth considering support such as:

• Dementia-aware care and supervision

• Daily check-ins or welfare visits

• Assistance managing medication and routines

These supports are often included in higher-level home care packages or specialist programs.

6. You’ve stopped going out or seeing people

Whether it’s due to energy, safety concerns, or lack of transport—social withdrawal is a key sign your current support isn’t keeping up. Reassessment can help you access:

• Transport to events or appointments

• In-home visits from carers or companions

• Community connection programs

Find out more about 365 Care's personalised services.

7. You're experiencing weight loss or issues with eating

Unexplained weight loss could mean your nutrition or swallowing needs are not being met. Through reassessment, you may be referred to:

• A dietitian or nutrition specialist

• Speech pathology for swallowing

• Meal preparation or delivery support

8. You’re reducing services to manage your budget

If you're cancelling physiotherapy sessions or cutting back on cleaning visits to cover everyday costs, your package may not reflect your current needs. A care manager can help optimise your funding—so you don’t have to choose between essential supports.

9. Your hearing or vision has changed

Sensory changes can make daily tasks harder—and more dangerous. If you’re missing phone calls, misjudging steps, or having trouble following conversations, you may be eligible for:

• Assistive technology like amplified phones

• Home safety updates (e.g. better lighting)

• Hearing and vision health checks

10. You’re staying home more than usual

Feeling unwell, unsupported, or unsafe can make it harder to get out and about. But staying inside long-term can affect both your physical and mental health.

If you’re not going out as much, you might benefit from:

• Telehealth services

• In-home medical or social support

• Transport and community engagement

How to request a reassessment

Reassessment works similarly to your initial application: a qualified assessor will review how your needs have changed.

You can start the process by:

• Contacting My Aged Care directly

• Reaching out to your current care provider or care manager

• Getting supporting evidence from your GP or specialist

Our team at 365 Care can also help guide you through the steps.

We recommend:

• Talking to your care manager if things feel different—they may already notice these shifts

• Providing medical documentation or referrals to speed up your reassessment

You can also visit our guide on how to apply for more information.

What happens next?

Following your reassessment, you may:

• Be upgraded to a higher home care package

• Gain access to additional services while you wait

• Be referred to other government-funded programs

Rest assured, your existing funding will remain in place—there’s no risk to requesting more help if your needs have changed.