How can a Day Therapy Centre (DTC) benefit me?

Key points:

• A Day Therapy Centre (DTC) can assist you in regaining skills or mobility you have lost or struggle with

• There are more than 150 Government funded Day Therapy Centres in Australia

• DTC can be Government subsidised or paid for privately

Nationally, there are more than 150 Commonwealth funded Day Therapy Centres (DTCs). They vary in size and in the range of therapy services they provide.

Day Therapy Centres are sometimes called health or wellness centres, and offer physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, podiatry and other therapy services to older people living in the community. Some centres may even provide aqua therapy.

The aim of the program is to assist people to either maintain or recover a level of independence. However, there is the added benefit of social inclusion and engagement with other older people in the community.

Day Therapy Centres can improve both your physical and mental wellbeing, encourage healthy memory, and also target any aged related health problems you may have.

Usually, a coordinator at the DTC will develop an agreed care plan for you and this may include recommendations for therapy and referrals to other service providers where necessary.

The care plan will include any therapy goals you want to achieve and the services that will best help assist you, and should also measure your progress over the time you attend a DTC.

The professionals you visit at a Day Therapy Centre may also provide you with daily exercises to do at home to strengthen your body and mind when you are at home.

How much does it cost?

While individuals may be required to pay a small negotiated fee, those who are unable to pay may not be refused access to DTC services.

The Government subsidises most Day Therapy Centres under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Home Care Package program, making them more accessible for people requiring those services.

If you aren’t eligible to receive any Government funded services, you can still pay privately to access therapies and supports at a Day Therapy Centre.

Am I eligible?

Generally, Day Therapy Centres are available for people aged 65 and over, or if you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) aged 50 and over.

If you are a resident of a Government funded aged care home or are receiving a Government funded aged care services you are able to access subsidised services at a Day Therapy Centre.

However, if you don’t receive Government funded services, you can pay for services out of your own pocket.

What services would you like to receive at a Day Therapy Centre? Tell us in the comments below.

Related content:

What is Centre Based Care (CBC)?
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
Assessing your needs and eligibility