SENIORS INFORMATION SERVICE
We provide independent information, support and advice to older South Australians, to those who are living with a disability, and to families and carers.
Our service supports vulnerable and aged persons to:
- make informed decisions about lifestyle choices and independence
- maximise opportunities to actively participate in the community and to learn new skills
- promote an active lifestyle
- keep up to date with changes in technology
Housing information
- We maintain up-to-date, comprehensive information on housing options for seniors, including:
- An easily searchable online Housing Directory listing retirement villages (independent living units and serviced apartments) and rental units for seniors on low income
- A Rental & Community Housing Directory available on the website and in print
- A list of retirement housing with aged care on site or adjacent
- A list of residential parks in South Australia
- Information sheets that can act as a guide when making decisions on housing options
- A home safety and accessibility checklist
Our staff can also help you work your way through these options and other specialised programs.
Home support and respite
If you wish to remain living in your own home but need some help we can provide information on and support with:
- Referral to My Aged Care
- The role of Regional Assessment Services (RAS) and the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT)
- Government-funded services, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) or Home Care Packages (HCP)
- In-home and centre-based day or overnight respite services
- Personal alarm systems, aids and equipment
- Hiring private ‘fee for service’ options
Residential aged care
If you are seeking a permanent placement in an aged care facility, we can help you search the My Aged Care system for information on aged care facilities. We also provide information on and support with:
- Eligibility and approval (My Aged Care, ACAT)
- The steps to take to find a facility
- Understanding the costs involved
- Aged care vacancies (permanent and respite)
Resources
The resources we provide include:
- Facts sheets, brochures, lists and booklets which can be accessed online or in hardcopy
- Presentations to community groups, organisations and service providers
- Individual IT tuition for seniors with the support and advice of friendly volunteers to help you get online (currently on hold)
Connecting to the world
There is an increasing need to be connected to the Internet to access services and to communicate with government departments and agencies.
Being connected also opens a wider range of options in terms of shopping, finding out about entitlements, being informed and making the most of social entertainment opportunities. We can assist by:
- Providing information on IT options available
- Helping you to build skills and confidence to access the internet
- Providing information on protecting your privacy
Information to help you navigate legal and financial issues
While we do not have legal and financial advisors, we can assist you with locating the right agencies to speak with, and with sourcing information and relevant forms on issues such as:
- aged care costs
- concessions
- home equity schemes
- Advance Care Directive and Enduring Power of Attorney
- Wills, estate and probate
- consumer protection
- complaints and advocacy services.