As your loved one ages, they may reach a point where living independently becomes difficult, and they need extra support with daily tasks. With so many care options available, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming.
While at-home care may work for some, it can be expensive and you may worry that you’re loved one is not receiving the level of support needed.
This is why many start exploring external care options, such as group homes and aged care facilities, places where your family member will be taken care of by professionals in a safe and comfortable environment.
You may feel overwhelmed with so many options there especially if you are new to aged care. If so, you’re not alone, an increasing number of Australian families are searching for the best care solutions for their loved ones.
That’s why understanding the differences between group homes and aged care facilities can help you make an informed decision that meets your family member’s unique needs and lifestyle. This guide aims to do just that by providing information on what group homes and aged care facilities are, their key differences, and how to choose the right care option in Brisbane.
What Are Group Homes?
A group home is a small community-based environment that helps people who need assistance live together while being supported by professionals.
These homes usually accommodate five to ten people and consist of communal areas with private or shared bedrooms. It aims to provide a comfortable home-like feel rather than that of an institution, which makes it a great option if your loved one prefers a more relaxed and personalised living space.
Staff assist with daily activities, including:
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming).
- Meal preparation and dietary support.
- Household tasks (cleaning, laundry).
- Medication management and reminders.
Your loved one will be encouraged to make their own choices on a day-to-day basis, while still contributing to the household in general. These include their meals, hobbies and keeping up with chores. This greater sense of freedom encourages independent thinking, helping keep them younger at heart and mind.
Group Homes are designed to support your loved one’s social life, whether that would be getting visits from family or entertaining friends. Most include outdoor areas as well as entertainment spaces.
Group homes are ideal if your loved one needs some assistance with daily tasks but does not require intensive medical supervision. Some group homes cater to NDIS participants or people with mild disabilities, making them a flexible option depending on the level of support your family member needs.
In terms of funding, group homes are privately funded or supported by the NDIS, meaning they are not part of the My Aged Care system. Some state-based subsidies may be available, but overall, group homes are a more independent and self-funded option compared to government-funded aged care facilities.
What Are Aged Care Facilities?
Often called nursing homes, they focus on providing care for seniors who require round-the-clock assistance. If you’re loved one can no longer live independently these facilities can help them with a high level of medical support and supervision.
Aged care facilities follow a more structured routine and have anywhere from twenty to one hundred residents with many having either shared or private rooms. The facility is more clinical and helps provide your loved one with continuous care with professional healthcare staff on-site 24/7.
Suitable for older adults with complex care needs, such as:
- Mobility assistance and fall prevention.
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s care.
- Chronic illness management.
- End-of-life and palliative care.
These facilities are cheaper than one would think and that is in part due to government subsidies through My Aged Care.
Your loved one would contribute to the costs depending on their income and assets, helping make sure such care is accessible to everyone regardless of their financial situation.
The cost breakdown includes a basic fee which can be up to 85% of the aged pension covers meals and laundry and is paid regardless of income. A means-tested fee is an additional amount calculated based on their income and assets. Finally, accommodation costs can be covered in part by government subsidies, partially funded, or paid privately depending on the individual’s financial situation and coverage.
Key Differences At a Glance
| Features | Group Home | Aged Care Facility |
| Size | 5-10 residents | 20-100 residents |
| Level of Medical Support | Minimal Medical Staff | Registered Nurses and Doctors |
| Funding | Privately funded or NDIS | Government-subsidised under My Aged Care |
| Level of Independence | High level of control over day-to-day | The schedule is set by on-site staff |
Choosing The Right One For Your Loved One
Deciding between a group home and an aged care facility ultimately comes down to your loved one’s needs, lifestyle preferences, and level of independence.
If they are still independent and would benefit from being in a small, home-like environment, and prefer a flexible routine, then a group home may be the best option. They help encourage freedom, social connections, and personalised support, making them ideal if your loved one needs low to moderate assistance but does not require full-time medical care.
On the other hand, if they require round-the-clock supervision, struggle with mobility issues or chronic illnesses, or have advanced dementia, then an aged care facility will provide the specialised medical care and structured support they need. With 24/7 nursing staff, emergency care, and professional health monitoring, aged care facilities ensure that they will receive consistent, high-quality care in a safe and controlled environment.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your loved one, you don’t have to make the decision alone. Contact us at Beacon Support to help ensure your loved one gets the best care suited to their needs.
