Waiting for a My Aged Care assessment? Here’s what you can do in the meantime

You don't need to wait for services to start making everyday tasks easier. Taking small steps now can help you maintain your independence and daily routines.  

Some simple strategies include: 

Using assistive products 

Some low-cost assistive products can make everyday tasks easier and safer.  

For example, you could try: 

• Jar openers to help you open jars and containers
• Long-handled reachers to help you pick up items from the floor without bending down
• Non-slip mats to help make showering and personal care safer to do independently
• Kettle tippers so you can pour boiling water by gently tipping the kettle, rather than lifting and carrying it

Making your home safer 

You can make simple changes to your home environment to support your safety and independence.

Consider: 

• Improving lighting in areas that are difficult to see
• Removing trip hazards such as loose rugs or clutter
• Rearranging furniture to create clear, unobstructed walkways
• Keeping frequently used items within easy reach

Staying active 

Staying strong and steady can help you keep doing everyday activities on your own. 

Regular movement and gentle exercise can help you stay active and independent. 

You could get started by: 

• Visiting our Strength and exercise page for printable exercise sheets
• Exploring our Fitness for All page for guided exercise videos
• Searching for local exercise classes and walking groups using our social activities finder

Adapting or pacing activities 

You may be able to adapt some activities to make them more manageable. 

Try: 

• Breaking larger tasks into smaller steps 
• Taking regular breaks 
• Planning your day around when you have the most energy 
• Spreading activities throughout the day with rest time in between 

This can help manage fatigue and make daily tasks feel more comfortable.  

Exploring free information and local support 

There are many free ways to find information, support, and activities. 

You could: 

• Read more LiveUp articles about healthy ageing or helpful tools 
• Find local social groups and activities using our social activities finder
• Connect with carer support groups if you're helping a family member or friend 
• Connect with advocacy services, such as the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN)  

Start with one small step

While you're waiting, focus on one thing at a time. Consider choosing one of the following actions you can take today: 

• Explore a local community group.
• Try an assistive product that supports a daily task.
• Contact My Aged Care for an update.
• Talk with your GP, family, or a trusted friend about support options.

Even small changes can help you stay active, independent, and connected while you wait for your assessment. 

If you need more information about healthy ageing, take the LiveUp quiz or get in touch with one of our helpful team on 1800 951 971.  

References

My Aged Care. (n.d.). Non government-funded providers. Australian Government. https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/non-government-funded-providers

My Aged Care. (n.d.). What to do while you wait for your assessment outcome. Australian Government. https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/what-do-while-you-wait-your-assessment-outcome