How to Use MACIA
A step-by-step guide to preparing for your aged care assessment.
Browse the Assessment Guide
Start by exploring the Assessment Guide. It covers all 10 sections of the IAT, explaining each question in plain language: what it means, why it matters, and how your answer affects the algorithm's classification.
Pay special attention to Section 5 (Function), which has the most questions and the greatest impact on your support level.
Create an Assessment
Create a free account and set up a new assessment. Give it a title (e.g. "Mum's Assessment"), add the person's name, and the scheduled date if you know it.
Work Through Each Section
Go through each section and answer the questions as honestly as you can. For each question, MACIA shows you the response options, their likely impact on the outcome, and guidance to help you avoid common mistakes.
Remember: describe your worst day, not your best. If you need help with something, say so. Using a walking frame IS "needing help." Having someone cook for you IS "needing help." Don't undersell.
Review the Impact Analysis
After answering questions, check the Impact Analysis page to see how your answers trend. It shows how many of your responses increase vs. decrease the likely support level, broken down by section.
Print Your Preparation Sheet
Before the assessment, print your preparation sheet. It's a summary of all questions, your prepared answers, key guidance points, and things to remember. Take it with you to the assessment as a reference.
Record What Happened During
After the assessment, come back and record what answers were actually given during the assessment. Use the Compare Phases view to see where the actual assessment differed from your preparation. This is useful if you need to request a review.
General Tips
Bring someone with you. A family member or carer who sees you regularly can provide important observations you might miss or downplay.
Bring your medication list. A complete list of all medications, dosages, and prescribing doctors.
Be honest about bad days. The assessment should capture your needs on a difficult day, not your best day.
Ask for an advocate. Contact OPAN (1800 700 600) for free, independent advocacy support before or during the assessment.
You can request a review. If the outcome doesn't reflect your needs, you have the right to request a review. The assessor can also override the algorithm's classification.