While these conversations can be really valuable, they can also be confusing at times, particularly when people use terms that are not well understood outside of the care sector. One such term is "personal care." While you might have heard this term used, you might not be totally clear on what it means. That's why we wanted to use this blog post as an opportunity to clarify what it means and explain a bit about what it involves.

Definition of personal care

When people use the terms "personal care," they are referring to a wide range of daily living tasks that are done to maintain well-being, hygiene, and comfort. Usually, we talk about personal care in the context of older people or people with disabilities who require some assistance with these tasks because they are unable to perform them by themselves. Assistance can range from a few hours a week to extensive daily care.

What does assisting with personal care involve?

The term "personal care" covers a wide range of daily living activities, including:

Assistance with bathing, showering, and toileting

This involves helping individuals wash and maintain personal hygiene, as well as helping them go to the toilet.

Support with dressing and undressing

This involves helping to choose appropriate clothing and helping an individual get into or out of that clothing.

Help with putting on makeup

Personal care can also involves helping people put their makeup on for the day and take it off at night.

Help with brushing your teeth

This can also include flossing and managing dentures to assist with oral hygiene.

Aid in getting in and out of bed

This includes helping individuals with mobility issues move in and out of bed. Personal care can also involve helping individuals change position in bed to avoid pressure injuries.

Help with hair care and shaving

Assisting people with grooming and personal appearance tasks to help them stay clean and feeling good about themselves.

Continence care

Incontinence care involves a range of daily tasks designed to help individuals manage a loss of bladder or bowel control. It may involve the use of pads, absorbent underwear or catheter bags.

Foot care

Assisting with basic foot care, including washing and inspecting feet to prevent issues like infections or sores.

Why do we use the term "personal care"?

While the term "personal care" could be considered a euphemism, it is generally used in an attempt to respect the dignity of the individuals receiving such services. Importantly, while some people might find it difficult to talk about the activities of personal care directly, there's nothing to be ashamed of if you or your loved one needs such services.

Personal care services in the home and in residential care

Personal care can be provided both in the home or in residential care settings.

In-home personal care services are tailored to meet the needs of individuals who prefer to stay in their own homes but need support with personal hygiene tasks. This option allows for a high degree of personalisation as caregivers can adjust their services to fit your needs.

On the other hand, residential care settings allow residents to receive continuous care and support, which is especially beneficial for those with more complex health needs.

Who provides in-home personal care services?

In Australia, in-home personal care services are usually provided by family members and informal caregivers, or by support workers. Support workers are generally employed by support service providers such as Focus Care.

The Australian Government helps to fund support services for older Australians who need personal care through the CHSP Program or through Home Care Packages.

How can I get personal care assistance for my loved one?

The CHSP Program offers entry level support for older Australians to remain living in their own home. If you or your loved one requires a higher level of care however, they may receive a Home Care Package.

The great thing about Home Care Packages is that they offer flexibility and can be tailored to meet your personal needs. Funding through a home care package can be used for both personal care and other types of support services. When determining whether a particular service might be covered by a Home Care Package, you should consider whether it:

• Directly addresses your care needs and goals as identified by the My Aged Care team.

• Enhances your health and wellbeing

• Is essential for you to continue living safely and independently at home

• Can be provided within your Home Care Package budget

It is important to note that a Home Care Package is not intended to replace services available through other health programs like Medicare.

Applying for a home care package

To apply for a Home Care Package, you must first contact My Aged Care. You will then be assessed for eligibility by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). This assessment determines the level of care required and whether you qualify for support.

If you're approved, you'll receive a letter outlining approval for a specific level of Home Care Package, ranging from Level 1 (basic care needs) to Level 4 (high care needs).

Once you've been approved, you can find a home care provider, and work with them to receive the care services you need. It is important to note that there may be a waiting period for package availability, however.

Do support workers only provide personal hygiene assistance?

In addition to personal hygiene services, support workers can provide a range of services to older Australians. These services include:

Nursing Care

To encourage treatment and monitoring of medical conditions at home. This is often provided by a registered nurse.

Therapies such as Podiatry and Physiotherapy

To support the maintenance of movement and mobility.

Meal Preparation

To promote good nutrition and healthy eating habits.

Support for Impairments

To assist in managing specific conditions and maximising independence at home.

Household Chores

To help with everyday tasks that ensure the home remains tidy and livable, including cleaning, grocery shopping and laundry work.

Home and Garden Maintenance

To help keep the home and garden safe and well-maintained.

Home Modifications

To increase or maintain safe and independent mobility within the home.

Aids for Independence

To provide tools and devices that aid in mobility, communication and reading.

Transportation

To facilitate access to medical appointments and community activities.

Assistance to Help You Take Part in Social Activities

Support is also available to assist individuals to participate in social outings, groups, and community engagement. This can serve as a gentle encouragement to remember you can still live a full and rewarding life!

How can Focus Care help?

Focus Care is a respected provider of in-home aged care services including personal care and has helped many older Australians maintain their independence and remain living at home. We provide quality in-home care through trained, professional support workers. As an approved provider, we are experts in the aged care system and helping you achieve great outcomes and a high quality of life.

For more information on how we may be able to help you or a loved one with your personal care needs, please get in touch with our friendly team.