Choosing the right aged care option is one of the most personal decisions a family can make. Should Mum stay in her garden, surrounded by decades of memories? Or is it time for a move to residential care, where help is always nearby and new friendships await? There’s no single answer, because every person’s needs, priorities and circumstances are unique.
Understanding the differences between Support at Home and residential aged care will help your family navigate this journey with confidence and clarity.
What Is Support at Home?
Support at Home is the Australian Government’s new program, replacing Home Care Packages from November 2025. It delivers tailored support so older persons can remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible. Services range from light domestic tasks like housework and meal preparation to more complex support including nursing care, allied health and even assistive technology.
The program is built around eight classifications, each reflecting different levels of need. Classification 1 might cover a few hours of cleaning each week, while Classification 8 provides intensive palliative care. Funding is flexible, with quarterly budgets and the ability to access up to fifteen thousand dollars for home modifications like ramps or bathroom safety features.
What Is Residential Aged Care?
Residential aged care means moving into a facility where professional carers provide round-the-clock support. This option suits older persons with more complex health needs or those who can no longer manage safely at home, even with support. Residential care offers everything from nursing and medication management to social activities, meals and housekeeping, all in one place.
At CCH, residential aged care goes further. Private rooms, chef-prepared meals, beautifully designed gardens and vibrant community programs mean residents enjoy comfort, dignity and genuine connection every day.
Key Differences to Consider
Level of Care and Support
Support at Home works best when needs are low to moderate and can be met with scheduled visits from carers and allied health professionals. It’s perfect for someone who values independence but needs a hand with meals, shopping or personal care. Residential care provides continuous, higher-level support for those with complex medical conditions, mobility challenges or dementia who benefit from twenty-four-seven supervision.
Living Environment
Staying at home means familiarity. The view from the kitchen window, the neighbour’s friendly wave, and that well-loved armchair all remain part of daily life. Moving to residential care brings new surroundings but also companionship, safety and the peace of mind that help is always close by.
Cost and Funding
Both options are government-subsidised, but the structures differ. Support at Home requires income-based contributions for non-clinical services, with clinical care fully funded. Residential care costs include a basic daily fee, accommodation payments and a means-tested care fee, which vary depending on individual financial circumstances.
Flexibility and Choice
Support at Home offers flexibility. Services can be adjusted as needs change, and older persons have choice over who provides care and when. Residential care offers structure and routine, with everything managed on site and meals, activities and care delivered consistently.
Questions to Guide Your Decision
What does your loved one want? Independence at home or the security of full-time care?
What level of support is needed? Can daily tasks be managed with visiting carers, or is constant supervision necessary?
Is the home environment safe? Can modifications make it suitable, or are stairs, isolation or layout creating risks?
How is everyone coping? Are family carers stretched too thin, or can they continue to support with professional help?
What does the budget allow? Both options are subsidised, but costs and contributions vary.
Making the Choice That’s Right for You
There’s no perfect answer, only the right answer for your family. Some older persons thrive at home with Support at Home services, relishing the freedom and familiarity. Others flourish in residential care, building new friendships and enjoying the rhythm of community life.
At CCH, we’re here to support both journeys. Whether it’s delivering compassionate Support at Home services across Adelaide or welcoming residents into our vibrant, award-winning residential homes, we’re committed to helping older South Australians live well, wherever they call home.