The CACP program is now in its third year of operation. Fifteen clients with complex care needs from the Eastern Metropolitan Region of Melbourne are currently receiving case management and other support services to assist them in maintaining independence in their own home.

The CACP program places emphasis on care planning and care co-ordination to ensure continuity of care for the client in a culturally sensitive manner. Clients receive assistance with tasks of daily living and care, including personal care, home care, shopping and cooking. Specialist advice and care is also organised by the Case Manager with links into services such as the RDNS, Continence Clinics as well as OT and Physio assessments (to ensure any risk to client safety is minimized or eliminated).

Information and support is provided to assist clients in linking into services such as the Office of Public Advocate, Centrelink, Alzheimer’s Australia and the Carer’s Association. Part of the Case Managers role is to assist the client in planning for their future i.e. making the choice of long term community or residential care once their needs have increased and exceeded their CACP Package.

Most of the clients receiving packages have complex and multiple care needs and require daily support. Many of their carers also require intensive assistance to be able to continue assisting their loved ones to live in their local community and to prevent their premature admission into permanent residential care.