I'm not happy. Can I transfer to a different rest home?
Remember, a care home (rest home) is your home: just like any home you live in, you can choose to move if you wish. To start the process of moving, contact your local Needs Assessment Coordination Service (NASC) to let them know you want to transfer. They may do another...
Standard rooms. Can the price differ from place to place?
If the care homes are in the same defined geographical region then the quick answer is 'no'. The maximum you have to pay for your contracted care, basic accommodation, meals, laundry etc. is known as the Maximum Contribution. These payment rates, which vary according to where you live (the regions...
Are there rental options for older people in New Zealand?
Home ownership in New Zealand has been declining for the past 30 years, a fact that has been exacerbated more recently by rising inflation and the increased cost of living. As a result, an increasing number of older people rent. While there are a variety of rental options that may...
What is a serviced apartment?
A serviced apartment is a common retirement village option which provides certain services to people who are paying privately for these services. Commonly these people are reasonably independent. Services range from meals and cleaning services to, in some cases, high-end services such as a personal chef and chauffeur. High levels...
What to weigh-up if considering a retirement village?
Before you get your heart set on any particular village or unit, take your time to look around and gather as much information as you can. Talk to friends who've already done their research or who have moved into a village themselves. Explore all your options, and make sure you...
How can I supplement my respite subsidy allocation?
Many people find that taking regular breaks helps them sustain their caring role at home for much longer than they otherwise could. But making respite care work—especially if you've used up your allocated subsidy—can sometimes take a bit of creativity and planning. Here are some practical ways to supplement your...
Reviewing our financial affairs. A few things to consider.
The financial world is evolving and as we age, we will come across situations we may not be ready for, such as how we access our money, where it’s held and how we can use it. Some will remain in paid work as they age, some will want to pass...
How can I gain entry to a rest home or hospital?
Entry to residential care is managed by a process known as Needs Assessment 1) To begin this process you either need to talk to your doctor about the issues that you are having or you can contact the agency responsible for managing assessments (known as NASC or sometimes Care Co-ordination)...
Statistics about ageing
Demystifying who lives in care According to Health New Zealand's quarterly reporting from care providers, 35,591 people were living in aged residential care in September 2023. In the 2023 Census, there were 828,600 people aged 65 and over recorded as living in New Zealand. This means fewer than 5% of...
Key terms and concepts in the older persons’ health sector
10KM RULE: This rule deals with the situation where an intending resident’s first choice of care home only has a room available that attracts extra fees and the person doesn’t want to, or cannot afford to, pay those fees. ACC: Accident Compensation Corporation. ADVANCED CARE PLAN & ADVANCED DIRECTIVES :...
How can I stay safe and healthy over summer?
When the long, sunny days of summer roll in, it’s important to stay mindful of your health. While the season is filled with opportunities for enjoying the warm weather, it’s worth being aware that the heat can present certain risks, particularly for older adults. Read on to discover some practical...
What is a dual use room or swing bed?
Dual use (or “swing”) beds are rooms that can support more than one level of care - typically rest home or hospital care - to be provided in the same room, which means the resident doesn't need to change rooms. This can be especially reassuring if you’re worried about the...
What is equity release?
The concept of home equity release involves converting a portion of your home’s value into cash, while still allowing you to live there. Usually, this is in the form of a reverse mortgage. When you sell the home or die, the full loan plus interest has to be repaid. Currently,...
Can I get home help if I live with other people?
This depends on a number of factors including why you need the services, whether other household members can help out and whether you have a Community Services card. Importantly, in April 2023, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora announced a change to the way that family care is funded....
Financial Means Assessment form - Work and Income
In New Zealand, a financial means assessment is a process used to determine an individual's eligibility for a residential care subsidy , which helps cover the costs of long-term residential care services. This assessment evaluates the person's financial situation and determines their ability to contribute towards the cost of their...
Compression Garments - What they are and how they can help
What are compression garments? Compression garments are specialised types of clothing that fit tightly and provide gentle, consistent pressure to specific areas of the body. They are made from stretchy materials and are worn snugly against the skin. There are different styles for different parts of the body, including sleeves,...
Need information about moving into a rest home?
You will find all the information you need here on the Eldernet site including, the process for accessing this service and a listing for every rest home or care home in the country. Eldernet Residential Care gives older people and those supporting them free, unbiased, and comprehensive information about moving...
Find information about getting older
We pride ourselves on being the most trusted online resource for older people and those supporting them to find the information they need to navigate the ageing journey. Yet, we also understand that not everyone wants to, or is able to, access the internet. This is why The Eldernet Group...
What are shared goals of care in New Zealand?
Shared goals of care in New Zealand refer to a collaborative approach between people, healthcare professionals, and family/whānau, which aims to align their goals and expectations for a person's treatment and care. Shared goals of care outline how providers should approach discussions of care with adults and their whānau. They...
Addressing inequity in primary care: The role of genes
Search results for "level of care" are also found at:
- Making Life Easier at Home (119)
- Retirement Villages (153)
- Residential Care (458)