Navigating Aged Care: Planning for Comfort, Care and Peace of MinD Later in life

Written by Serena Swedosh & Shara Cox

As we (or our loved ones) get older, planning for aged care becomes one of life’s most important decisions. It’s about more than just finding the right facility or care provider — it’s about ensuring comfort, dignity, and financial peace of mind for the years ahead.

Understanding the Aged Care System

Australia’s aged care system offers a range of options depending on the level of support needed — from in-home care that helps with daily activities, to residential aged care for those requiring ongoing assistance.

Getting started typically involves an Aged Care Assessment (ACAT), which determines eligibility for government-subsidised services and helps match care options to individual needs.

The Costs of Care

While government support can significantly reduce the cost of aged care, there are still fees to consider. These can include:

  • Basic daily fees covering meals, cleaning, and services

  • Means-tested fees based on income and assets

  • Accommodation payments for residential care rooms

  • Extra service fees for premium or lifestyle options and activities

Understanding how these costs fit into your broader financial picture is essential to avoid stress in the future.

Making Informed Decisions

Aged care decisions often intersect with other areas of life — like pension entitlements, tax planning, and estate management. Choosing how to fund care, whether by selling the family home, using superannuation, or restructuring investments, can have long-term consequences.

Taking time to plan early ensures that you can make choices that protect both your quality of life and your assets.

How Salt Financial Group Can Help

Navigating aged care can be complex — but you don’t have to do it alone.

At Salt Financial Group, we help individuals and families understand their aged care options and guide them to make confident financial decisions. Our Advisers can assist you with:

  • Structuring your finances in order to fund aged-care in a sustainable way

  • Assessing the impact on Centrelink benefits and cash flow

  • Coordinating with aged care providers and family members

  • Reviewing estate plans and powers of attorney

We take a compassionate, yet practical approach — ensuring your financial plan supports both your personal and financial wellbeing, as well as giving you peace of mind.

Start the Conversation Early

Aged care planning isn’t just for the future — it’s about being prepared. Whether for yourself or a loved one, having a clear plan now can make all the difference when the time comes to make decisions quickly.

Talk to our team at Salt Financial Group today to start planning with confidence and clarity.

Jenni Anderson