Home Care Package Delays Frustrate Seniors

Kathleen Whelan, a retired nurse, has been the sole caregiver for her 79-year-old husband, Alan, who has progressive supranuclear palsy and relies on a walker and wheelchair. Alan requires help with toileting, showering, and transfers, but despite applying for in-home aged care assistance in July 2023, the couple received no support for over a year. Alan was eventually assessed in October 2024 as needing the highest level of care, but only at medium priority, and they have still not received any services. Compounding the situation, Alan suffered a spinal injury in February 2025, leaving him unable to use his walker. The Whelans currently rely on a borrowed wheelchair and a portable ramp, which must be repeatedly set up, highlighting the urgent need for a permanent ramp and mobility support. Federal reports indicate significant delays in the home care package system, with nearly 87,600 people waiting for approved packages and medium-priority recipients waiting over a year. Government officials have pledged reforms and ramp installation, but delays have sparked criticism from opposition ministers and advocacy groups, emphasizing that seniors are being left vulnerable and in some cases dying before receiving essential care.

Bowring, D. (2025, August 22). In-home aged care package delays leave seniors feeling 'abandoned'. ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-23/home-aged-care-package-delay-frustrates-elderly/105636756