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FAQ
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How do I know if I or my loved one needs aged care?If you or a loved one are struggling with daily tasks such as personal care, medication management, or mobility, aged care may be an option. A Needs Assessment Service Coordination (NASC) assessment is required to determine eligibility for government-funded care.
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What is a NASC assessment, and how do I get one?NASC (Needs Assessment and Service Coordination) is a government service that assesses an individual's care needs and determines the appropriate level of support. To get a NASC assessment: Contact your GP or local health provider – They can refer you to your local NASC agency. A NASC assessor will meet with you – This could be at home, in the hospital, or in another care setting. They will discuss your health, mobility, and ability to manage daily activities. Assessment outcome – The NASC team will determine whether you qualify for government-funded support and what level of care is appropriate. Funding and placement – If you qualify, they will assist in organizing funding options and finding a suitable care facility like McKenzie Healthcare.
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What happens during a NASC assessment?A person from your local NASC team will come to your home to assess you. Your assessment may take up to 3 hours. You can invite your spouse, family, whānau, friends, an interpreter, or your current carers to support you during the assessment. They can help answer the assessor’s questions and ensure all relevant information is shared. The NASC assessor will: Use an assessment tool to evaluate your current abilities, resources, goals, and needs. Ask practical questions to understand what support you require. Decide what support services you need. Inform you about what happens next and any steps required for your care plan.
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How do I apply for aged care at McKenzie Healthcare?The process involves: Requesting a NASC assessment to determine the level of care required. Reviewing available funding options, including government subsidies. Contacting McKenzie Healthcare for a tour and discussion about available rooms and services. Completing an admission form and providing necessary medical documents. Coordinating the move-in process with our team to ensure a smooth transition.
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How do I apply for financial assistance?Financial assistance is available through Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) for eligible individuals. Residential Care Subsidy Depending on your income and assets, you may qualify for a subsidy to cover most of your care costs. If eligible, your income will contribute to the remaining balance. If you do not meet the criteria, you will need to cover the full cost of care. You can request a reassessment if your financial situation changes. For details on asset and income thresholds, visit Work and Income. Residential Care Loan If you do not qualify for the Residential Care Subsidy due to asset thresholds, you may be eligible for the Residential Care Loan. This interest-free loan is available to those who own the home they lived in before moving into residential care. The loan must be used to cover care costs and is repaid when the home is sold or from your estate after passing. Click here for more information. Maximum Contribution If you are assessed as needing residential care through NASC, providers can charge up to a set maximum weekly amount for services. This amount, known as the maximum contribution, varies by region. You can check the maximum contribution for your area here. If eligible for the Residential Care Subsidy, this may be covered; otherwise, you will need to pay privately.
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What should I bring when moving in?We want you to feel at home, so we encourage you to bring personal items like photos, artwork, and treasured keepsakes to make your space familiar and comfortable. Our team is happy to offer guidance on what to bring. We provide some furniture, but you may bring small personal furnishings if space allows. Please note electrical items are required to be test and tagged my our mainentance team.
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Will I have a say in my care plan?Absolutely. We work closely with residents and their families to develop a personalized care plan that respects individual preferences and needs.
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Is there Wi-Fi available for residents?Yeas Wi-Fi is avaliable, talk to Reception on arrival for assistance.
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Can I still see my own doctor?Yes, residents can continue seeing their own GP if their GP agrees to continue to provide care, or we can assist in arranging medical care with our associated GP.
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Do you provide laundry services?Yes, we provide laundry services as part of our care package . All clothing should be named upon arrival.
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Can i have sky TV?Yes, you or your family can arrainge to have sky TV installed, sky TV will invoice you for this privately.
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When can my family visit?Our doors are locked for safety reasons between 8:30am - 5:00pm, but visiting outside those hours is welcome just give us a call or ring the bell and we will come and assist your entry.

Helpful links
Government & Funding Support
Information on financial assistance for long-term residential care.
Guidance on aged care services, assessments, and public healthcare support.
Find your local NASC to get assessed for care services and funding options.
Dementia & Palliative Care Support
Support, education, and resources for individuals and families affected by dementia.
Support for those requiring palliative care and their families.
Rights & Advocacy
Advocacy, support services, and advice for older adults and their families.
Free advocacy services to ensure quality healthcare and aged care rights.
Information on healthcare rights, making complaints, and advocacy services.
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