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The Program allows you and your family or carer to have time to consider your long term care arrangements, which may include returning home with community support or accessing the level of care provided by an aged care home.

Transition care is provided in your own home or in a 'live-in' setting. Live-in setting refers to facility based accommodation with a more home-like, less institutional feel and with space available for therapy. This setting can be part of an existing aged care home or health facility, for example a separate wing of a hospital.

Low intensity therapy improves or maintains your physical and mental abilities so you can continue to take part in daily living activities. Examples of low intensity therapy are occupational therapy, physiotherapy and social work.

Transitional care can be provided for a period of up to 12 weeks, with a possibility to extend to 18 weeks if you are assessed as needing an extra period of therapeutic care. The average period of care is expected to be about eight weeks.

Assessing Eligibility
Before you can enter an aged care residence or get home care you must be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).

Your doctor, medical centre or local hospital can provide you with a referral to the ACAT nearest you.

The ACAT is made up of doctors, nurses, occupational therapists and social workers and they will assess your individual needs, taking into account your home life, medical history and support networks in order to work out the best care option for you. From this assessment you will be advised as to your eligibility to enter either high or low level care. If you are assessed as eligible you can begin looking for your new home or gain assistance on a daily basis to stay in your own home.

Your ACAT can also provide you with information on aged care residences in your area or help you arrange respite care.

All ACAT assessments are free and are valid for up to 12 months.