PEOPLE looking for aged care services in the New England Electorate will now have access to an online tool that will help them estimate their aged care costs.

“The Fee Estimator, available online or via phone, will allow people to enter their income and assets, and receive an estimate of the fees they may be asked to pay when they enter residential care or access home care,” New England MP Barnaby Joyce said.

“Navigating the aged care system can be complex, but the Fee Estimator will help older people access personalised information to help them prepare for aged care.”

Mr Joyce said that the fee estimator has been made available as part of the aged care changes that came into effect on 1 July.

The Fee Estimator will sit alongside clear pricing and accommodation information online to help people make informed choices.

“People can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to talk to a real person who will help them work through the fee estimator, or they can go online and use the estimator themselves,” he said.

“The Fee Estimator and the publication of more detailed information on aged care facilities will empower consumers and their families in New England Electorate to make decisions about the care that will best suit their needs,” Mr Joyce said.

Mr Joyce said people don’t start thinking about, or looking for, aged care services until something happens – such as a fall or adverse health event.

“But it’s important to start an early conversation about what care options are available to you or a loved one, because this will help ensure older people get the support and care they need to keep them safe and living independently, or to find the residential aged care setting that’s right for them,” he said.

“I encourage residents of New England Electorate who want to find out more about what choices are available for them when it comes to aged care to visit www.myagedcare.gov.au or call 1800 200 422,” Mr Joyce said.