FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

It is completely natural to have questions (and a few nerves) when considering the move to residential care.

To help make the process feel a little more manageable, here is a breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare.

• Is Boandik Commonwealth funded?

  Yes, Boandik receives government subsidies to support care and services delivery.

• How do I know if I’m eligible for residential aged care?

  Most people begin with an assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). They help determine the level of support you need. Once you have your referral code, our team can help you navigate the next steps.

• How much will it cost me?

  If you would like to know how much you might have to pay towards your aged care home, the 'My Aged Care' fee estimator can give you an estimate – to help you plan. 

  By entering a few basic details regarding your income, assets and household situation, you can generate a personalised estimate of what your contributions toward an aged care home might look like. 

  It is important to remember that the figures provided by this calculator are only an estimate to help you prepare. Your final costs will be determined by your specific financial circumstances at the time you officially enter care, as well as the specific pricing of the provider you choose to call home.

• What do I need to do before applying for residential care?

  Before applying for residential care, you must complete a formal aged care assessment. This involves a home visit from a health professional, such as a nurse or social worker, who will discuss your daily life to determine the level of support you need.

  Alongside this clinical review, you will also need to complete an income and assets assessment. Together, these two evaluations confirm both your care eligibility and your financial contribution. 

• How do I apply for a place at Boandik?

  Once you have received your aged care assessment, you can apply for residential care at Boandik or chat to us for some guidance relating to your application by contacting the Boandik Residential Services team on 08 8725 7377.

• Is there a waiting list for residential care at Boandik?

  Some of our homes may have a waiting list as it can take some time for a residential care place to become available. When a vacancy arises, Boandik staff will review all current applications to identify the individual whose needs best match the specific accommodation being offered.

• Will I be able to have a place at Boandik if I don’t have any money?

  Commonwealth funded aged care providers (like Boandik) are required to provide a certain number of beds to residents who have low financial means. The ratio of beds to be provided is prescribed by the Australian Government and depends on the location of the home. Depending on your level of assets and income, part or all of your costs may be met by the Australian Government. Boandik are committed to serving the Limestone Coast Community.

• How long do I have to decide after an offer for a residential place is made by Boandik?

  Given the high demand for residential aged care places, a response is generally required on the day of offer or at least within 24 hours.

• Can I bring my own furniture?

  Absolutely. While we provide comfortable furnishings, we highly encourage you to bring personal items like your favourite armchair, photos and mementos. Creating a space that feels like yours is essential to settling in.

• What is the food like at Boandik?

  We pride ourselves on fresh, nutritious meals prepared on-site. Our menus change seasonally, and we always cater to specific dietary requirements and personal preferences.

• How do you support families during the transition?

  Our staff are trained to recognise the "transition dip" - the period of adjustment that occurs after moving. We provide regular updates to families and offer a listening ear to help manage the emotional weight of the move.

• What are the visiting hours?

  There are no restrictions on the number of visitors, the frequency of visits, the day of visiting, the time of day for visiting or length of the visits at our three residential care homes. Visitors after business hours may need to use the intercom for staff assistance to enter the home.

• Will I need to be transferred if my care needs change?

  At Boandik, we are proud to offer "Ageing in Place." This means that as your health or support needs change over time, our care evolves with you. You can take comfort in knowing that you won’t have to leave the Boandik community you’ve come to call home.

  However, your safety and quality of care are at the heart of everything we do. To ensure we are providing the best possible support, there may be times when we suggest a move to a different room or area within your chosen home. These decisions are always made with your best interests in mind, ensuring you are in the environment best equipped to meet your clinical and personal needs. While your room may change, your place within the Boandik community remains secure.

• What is the Higher Everyday Living Fee?

  The Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) is an optional fee for people who choose to receive a higher standard of everyday living services in permanent or respite residential aged care. Boandik residential care facilities do not currently provide these higher standard services as a part of our service offering.

• What are Special Powers Orders?

  If a guardian or a substitute decision-maker (SDM) requires more authority to make decisions for a person who does not have decision-making capacity, the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) can grant Special Powers. These orders are an extra layer of legal protection and do not replace or alter any existing guardianship or administration arrangements already in place.

  At Boandik, applying for these powers is a routine part of the process for representatives of residents moving into our Memory Support Unit. This requirement ensures that you have the necessary legal standing to make the best possible care decisions for your loved one during their stay.

  To obtain these powers, an application must be submitted directly to SACAT. This process provides a clear legal framework that supports the safety and wellbeing of residents who may require specialised care and supervision.

• Who can I contact for more information about aged care fees?

  The financial implications (including the fee structure) of aged care are complex. If you have questions regarding your specific financial situation we recommend you seek independent financial advice. If you have questions regarding Boandik's room pricing, payment options or general questions about the costs of residential care, please contact the Boandik Residential Services team on 08 8725 7377.

• Take the First Step Toward Your New Home

  Choosing the right care is a big decision, and you don’t have to make it alone. Whether you are ready to move in soon or are just starting to explore your options, we invite you to experience the Boandik community firsthand.

  Our doors are always open for those looking for a place where Respect and Dignity are more than just words; they are a way of life.