Home Assist @ Unley

In response to a query from a resident about help available to enable older residents stay longer and live independently in their homes, I sourced the following information ...

The City of Unley's Home Assist Scheme aims to contribute to resident safety, minimise hazards inside and outside the home and enable residents to maintain an independent lifestyle.   A full list of services available can be found at:

 http://www.unley.sa.gov.au/community-services/support-programs#home-assist-78

For more information please phone the Home Assist Team on 8372 5111.

Funding

The majority of  Home Assist funding is received through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).  Access to services (for people over 65) is dependent on the outcome of the eligibility screening conducted by the Commonwealth Government’s My Aged Care. 

Eligibility

Priority is usually based on whether the individual is over the age of 65 and what their level of need is.   People who live independently in the community, are under 65 years and receive the Disability Support Pension are also able to receive one off or short term services through the Home Assist program.

Services

Home support services – light cleaning and shopping assistance

Home maintenance – referrals for grab rails and ramps, supply/ test/ replace smoke alarms batteries, replacement of fly wire, garden cutting removal, minor carpentry, replacement tap washers, gutter cleaning, minor fence and gate repair.

Spring Cleaning –interior or window clean

Gardening - Minimisation of hazards such as obstructed access to paths, removal of possible fire hazards and reduction of overgrowth.

Services available to those under 65 and receiving a Disability Support Pension

- Garden tidy up once a year

- Interior spring clean once a year

- Window clean once a year

- Gutter clean once a year

- Handyman services as required for security and safety related tasks such as smoke alarm changeovers, refitting fly screens, minor carpentry, replacing tap washers in dripping taps

All services incur a subsidised client contribution and all requests are based on assessment, priority of need and funding availability.