I'm going to a rest home? Will I have to pay for my care?

You are responsible for paying for, or contributing towards, residential care services just as you would pay for whatever you needed if you lived elsewhere.

There is a maximum amount that you will have to pay (as long as provider meets certain requirements which all providers listed in the residential care section of Eldernet do).  This is known as the Maximum Contribution (MC). It is equivalent to the cost of a standard room and associated care (aligned to the DHB contract price for Rest Home Care paid to providers).

There are several accommodation options. (Care is standardised across all options.)

1. Standard room – as above
2. Premium rooms – those with additional features.  You may be offered these. They come with additional costs.
3. Care suites – you ‘purchase’ this room under an Occupation Right Agreement (like a retirement village ‘purchase’)

The reality is that many cannot afford to fully pay for their care, or they run out of their own funds and need to apply for a Residential Care Subsidy or a loan. More details about these options are provided in following questions and articles.

Note: Details may change, individual circumstances vary widely, and some situations can be complex. Please therefore ensure that you get the appropriate advice from Work and Income. You can phone the Residential Care Subsidy Unit freephone 0800 999 727. In some situations, such as the purchase of a Care Apartment you must consult your lawyer.