OUR CARE
Not sure where to start? You’re not alone.
When someone you love suddenly needs more care, it can feel like a lot to take in. Most families who come to Elizabeth Knox Home and Hospital in Epsom, Auckland, felt the same way at first. This page walks you through what usually happens, one step at a time. You don’t need to have it all worked out before you call us.
The journey at a glance
1. Get a needs assessment
2. Find out the level of care needed
3. Understand how care is paid for
4. Visit and ask questions
5. Agree and move in
Mum or Dad has had a fall. What do I do right now?
First, make sure they are safe. If it’s an emergency, call 111. If they are in hospital, talk to the nurse or social worker on the ward. They can start a needs assessment from there. If they are at home, call their GP. When you’re ready to think about what comes next, call us on 09 523 3119. We’ll listen and help you understand your options.
What is a needs assessment, and how do we get one?
A needs assessment is the first step into residential care in New Zealand. An independent assessor from NASC (Needs Assessment Service Co-ordination, part of Health New Zealand) meets with your family member, and with you if you like. They work out what care is needed. Ask your GP for a referral, or the hospital team if your family member is in hospital. Without an assessment you can’t apply for government help with the cost of care.
What kind of care might they need?
The assessment recommends a level of care. At Knox, that is rest home care or hospital-level care.
Rest home care is for people who can stay fairly independent, with support for daily life and nurses close by.
Hospital-level care (often called a nursing home) is for people with high care needs. It includes registered nurses 24 hours a day and our physio and occupational therapy teams.
How is care paid for?
The needs assessor gives you a form for a financial means assessment by Work and Income. This looks at income and assets and works out how much your family member pays. The Residential Care Subsidy may cover the rest if they are eligible. If they own a home, a Residential Care Loan may help. Care homes are not allowed to advise on eligibility, so please ask your Needs Assessor, Work and Income, or Seniorline (free, 0800 725 463). Some rooms at Knox have Premium Room Fees, and our Care Administrator can explain them.
Can we come and look around first?
Yes, please do. You’re welcome to visit Knox with your family member or a support person, see the homes and rooms, and ask anything you like. There’s no obligation at all. Families are welcome every day, 10am to 11.30am and 2pm to 8pm. Our Care Administrator can show you around. Call 09 523 3119 or book a visit.
What happens if we choose Knox?
Our Care Administrator will give you a copy of the Admission Agreement to take home and read. This sets out what Knox provides and what you agree to. It’s a good idea to read it with family or a lawyer. Once it’s signed, we’ll agree a moving-in day together. Fees are paid one month in advance at the start, then fortnightly. We’ll help make each step as easy as possible.
What should they bring when they move in?
Each room has a bed, a set of drawers and a built-in wardrobe. Bring the things that make it feel like home: a favourite chair, photos and artwork. Our maintenance team will help hang them. Some homes have TVs already, and in others you can bring your own (up to 26 inches). There’s a phone in every room and free basic Wi-Fi.
We’re not ready for a permanent move. Are there other options?
Yes. A short respite stay gives family carers a rest, and many guests come back and see Knox as a second home. If you care for someone at home, the Carer Support scheme may fund some days of care each year. Day visits offer company and activities while carers take a break. A short stay to recover after an operation can help someone get home safely. Day visits and recovery stays are privately funded.
Talk to us, any time you’re ready
There’s no pressure and no question too small. Call us on 09 523 3119 for a chat, email info@knox.co.nz, or come and see us. We’ll help you take the next step, whatever you decide.