The Support at Home program has an End-of-Life Pathway that supports older people during this final stage of life.
For an older person who has been diagnosed with 3 months or less to live, this pathway provides services such as urgent support and funding for personal care, help around the house, and general nursing. It works alongside any government-funded palliative care they may already receive. They can be referred for a high priority assessment to access this care, even if they aren’t already receiving services through Support at Home.
If you are looking for end-of-life care for yourself, for an older person you care for, or just want to know more about end-of-life care, this page provides helpful information on how to access it through the End-of-Life Pathway.
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What help is available?
The services that you can receive are the same as those available through Support at Home, including access to:
- clinical supports – such as nursing care, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy
- independence – such as help with showering, getting dressed, taking medications, transport, and respite care
- everyday living – such as cleaning, gardening, shopping, and meal preparation.
The End-of-Life Pathway provides access to $25,000 over a 12-week period to spend on extra services. You can access this for a total of 16 weeks, if those funds are still available to provide flexibility. This replaces any other funding you may have through My Aged Care.
How does it work?
If you are approved for the End-of-Life Pathway, you will receive an individual support plan and budget to share with a provider. This could include a separate budget for assistive technology (products and equipment). The provider then helps to develop a care plan and coordinate services.
If you are already receiving Support at Home services, you should check if your provider is able to continue to provide appropriate support for this pathway.
The End-of-Life Pathway can only be used once. If you need care beyond 3 months, you can access Support at Home ongoing services. Your provider can request an urgent review of your support plan to ensure services continue.
How to access the End-of-Life Pathway
To be eligible for the End-of-Life Pathway, you must be 65 years or over, or 50 years or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
A doctor or nurse practitioner must complete the End-of-Life-Pathway form and:
- confirm an estimated life expectancy of 3 months or less
- certify that you are in bed more than 50% of the time.
You can then request a high-priority assessment for the End-of-Life Pathway by:
- calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visiting an Aged Care Specialist Officer at select Service Australia centres
- using the Apply online tool
- speaking with a medical professional who may be able to request an assessment on your behalf.
If you are already on Support at Home, your provider can arrange an urgent review of your support plan. This avoids the need for a new aged care assessment.
What will it cost?
As the End-of-Life Pathway is part of the Support at Home program, you may need to make a contribution towards the cost of any independence and everyday living services you receive. Clinical supports will be fully funded by the government.
Learn more about Support at Home costs and contributions.
Other end-of-life care options
If you need end-of-life support that isn’t covered by the End-of-Life Pathway, other types of help are available.
For example:
- you may need general or specialised palliative care services
- you may live in an aged care home.
Or you may be thinking in advance about your values and preferences regarding end-of-life care.
Learn more about end-of-life planning and care options.
If you are caring for someone who is nearing the end of their life, there is help and support available to help you cope. You can access resources to help you with carer counselling, connecting with peer groups, dealing with grief, and more.
Learn more about caring for someone at the end of their life.