Low dependency accommodation (previously known as 'hostel' care) offers a greater quality of life for people who benefit significantly from supportive services, companionship and activities, and for whom living without assistance is difficult.

Independence is encouraged in maintaining daily living skills. Each individual's circumstances are different, with tailored care planning ensuring that needs are met.

Services provided may include showering, dressing, bed making, room cleaning, supervision of medication, provision of all meals and laundry, depending on the individual's need.

Barossa Village offers ageing in place.  This means that wherever possible, a client does not need to move to a different room to receive a higher level of care.

The application process requires an independent assessment by the government Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), to ensure the applicant is eligible for low dependency care.   As with most programmes, a waiting list exists.  Admission is needs based, rather than order of application.

Fees: People in low dependency accommodation pay a refundable means-tested accommodation bond. In order to do this you will need to complete the separate form 'Request for an Assets Assessment' and submit it to Centrelink or the Department of Veterans Affairs. Either visit your local centrelink branch to collect asset assessment information booklet or call centrelink on 1800 227 475. Please note if assets are below the level established by the Federal Government, no accommodation bond is required. (Certain rules apply to establishing the asset level). For more information about the process visit The Department of Health and Ageing. Clients will be assessed by either Centrelink or the Department of Veterans Affairs in regard to fees payable.

It is also required in low dependency to pay a basic daily care fee. This fee is set by the Department of Health and Aging. For more information about the daily care fees please download the Residential Cost Care Form. Please note this form is updated every six months and the current form is effective 20th March 2011.

Clients who are in low care accommodation in Barossa Village, and have paid an accommodation bond, will not be required to pay a second accommodation bond when transferring from low to high dependency.

If you have any questions regarding Low Dependency Care then please contact the placement officer at the Residency on 8561 0400.