Rest Home Subsidies in New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know

Rest home care in New Zealand is essential for many elderly individuals who can no longer live independently but need assistance with daily activities. Fortunately, there are government subsidies available to help ease the financial burden of long-term care. In this article, we will break down how these rest home subsidies work, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for financial support.

What are Rest Home Subsidies?

Rest home subsidies are financial aids provided by the New Zealand government to assist older individuals who need residential care but cannot afford to pay for it themselves. These subsidies are managed by District Health Boards (DHBs), and their purpose is to ensure that seniors can receive care in a safe and supportive environment without worrying about the financial implications.

Eligibility for Rest Home Subsidies

To qualify for a rest home subsidy in New Zealand, individuals must meet certain criteria. While the specific requirements can vary slightly across DHBs, the general eligibility guidelines include:

1. Age: You must be aged 65 or older.
2. Needs assessment: You must undergo a needs assessment to determine if you require residential care. This is usually done by a needs assessor.
3. Financial assessment: Your income and assets are assessed to determine if you are eligible for a subsidy. The Ministry of Health sets asset limits, and those with assets above these limits may not qualify for a subsidy.

How the Rest Home Subsidy Works

The rest home subsidy helps cover the cost of residential care in an aged care facility. The amount of subsidy you are entitled to depends on your financial situation, including your income and assets.

• Income: If your income is below a certain threshold, you are likely to qualify for a full subsidy, covering most or all of the costs of care.
• Assets: If your assets exceed the allowable limit, you may need to contribute towards your care, with the subsidy covering a portion of the fees.

It's important to note that the subsidy does not cover all types of care. It specifically applies to the cost of personal care, such as help with daily living activities, and may not cover additional services like specialist care or other non-essential services.

How to Apply for Rest Home Subsidies

Applying for a rest home subsidy involves several steps, including:

1. Needs Assessment: Start by contacting your local District Health Board (DHB) for a needs assessment. A trained professional will assess your health and care needs.
2. Financial Assessment: Once your care needs are established, a financial assessment will be done to evaluate your income and assets. This is typically conducted by a social worker or financial advisor.
3. Submit Application: Once both assessments are completed, you can submit your application for a subsidy. If you meet the criteria, you will receive financial support to help cover the costs of your care.

What Services Are Covered by the Rest Home Subsidy?

The rest home subsidy covers a range of basic personal care services, including:

• Assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
• Room and board in a residential care facility.
• Access to health care, including visits from nurses and doctors as required.
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy services, if needed.

How Much Will You Have to Pay?

The amount that you will need to pay depends on your financial assessment. In some cases, if your assets are above the threshold, you may be required to contribute a portion of the care costs. The exact amount varies depending on your income, assets, and the level of care you require.

For example, individuals with higher assets may have to pay a larger portion of the fees, but if your assets and income fall below the required limits, you could qualify for a full subsidy.

What to Do if You Are Denied Subsidy

If your application for a rest home subsidy is denied, it’s important to know that you can appeal the decision. You can request a review of the decision by contacting your DHB. They may ask for additional information or reassess your financial situation to determine if you qualify.

Additional Support Available

Aside from the rest home subsidy, there are other financial supports available for seniors who are not eligible for full subsidy assistance. These may include:

• Residential Care Loan: If you have assets but are unable to meet the full costs, a residential care loan may be available to cover the gap. This loan is provided by the government and is repayable upon the sale of your home or when you pass away.
• Other Community Support Programs: Many community organizations offer services such as home care, personal assistance, and respite care, which may help individuals who do not qualify for the full subsidy.

Final Thoughts

The rest home subsidy in New Zealand is an essential resource for seniors who need residential care but cannot afford it. Understanding the eligibility criteria and the application process is crucial for accessing this support. By ensuring you meet the requirements and providing the necessary documentation, you can receive the help you need to live with dignity and care in your later years.