If you or a loved one struggle with using a regular phone due to age-related disabilities, you might be wondering if the BigPurplePhone, a specialised multifunctional communication system (MCS), is eligible for coverage under the new MyAgedCare Support at Home Program. The good news is that BigPurplePhone is indeed available for those who need assistance with distant communication due to physical or cognitive challenges.
Let’s explore how the BigPurplePhone fits into the new funding framework and why it’s a game-changer for seniors who need accessible communication solutions.
What is the BigPurplePhone?
The BigPurplePhone is a multifunctional communication system (MCS) that’s specifically designed for older adults who cannot use a standard mobile phone. It integrates a range of accessibility features to ensure that seniors with age-related disabilities can stay connected to family, friends, and caregivers without the limitations of regular phones.
Here’s a quick rundown of the features that make the BigPurplePhone an ideal MCS for seniors:
- Remote Carer Website: Allows caregivers or family members to manage the phone remotely.
- Picture-Driven Interface: Uses simple, easy-to-understand images, making it more accessible for seniors with cognitive impairments.
- SOS Button: Provides a quick way for users to call for help in emergencies.
- Medical Reminders: Helps seniors remember important medical appointments and medication schedules.
- Speak a Message Feature: Allows users to speak their message instead of typing, which is ideal for those with limited dexterity and vision.
- Simplified Video Calling: Enables easy video communication that’s less complex than traditional video calls.
- Accessibility Features: A phone that speaks, support for switches and is AA Accessibility rated.
What is a Multifunctional Communication System (MCS)?
A multifunctional communication system (MCS) is a device that offers alternative ways of communication for individuals who face challenges using conventional methods. MCSs are particularly beneficial for seniors who have difficulty using standard phones due to age-related disabilities such as poor vision, reduced dexterity, or cognitive decline.
The BigPurplePhone is a prime example of an MCS, providing assistive technology that makes staying in touch easier, safer, and more manageable for seniors. Under the MyAgedCare Support at Home program, devices like the BigPurplePhone are classified under Distant Communications, and are eligible for funding—provided they are prescribed by a health professional.
How to Access BigPurplePhone Through Support at Home Funding
The MyAgedCare Support at Home program is designed to help older Australians stay independent and live comfortably at home with the aid of assistive technology and other essential services. To access funding for a BigPurplePhone, the device must be prescribed by a healthcare professional, such as an occupational therapist (OT), doctor, nurse, or another allied health professional.
In the updated June 2025 Home Modifications - Assistive Technology (HM-AT) List, multifunctional communication systems (MCSs) like the BigPurplePhone are included for funding under the Distant Communications category. While the updated list is a positive step, some of the terminology has caused confusion. The previous list referred to these devices as "Adaptive and/or Special Feature Mobile Phones," which was clearer in identifying products like the BigPurplePhone.
Despite some ambiguity in the June 2025 update, we’re actively lobbying to ensure that MCSs such as the BigPurplePhone are recognized and easily accessible to seniors who need them. We will continue to advocate for more clarity and better inclusion of these products in the Support at Home program.
Why the BigPurplePhone is Essential for Seniors
For seniors with age-related disabilities, using a traditional phone can be a daily challenge. From small buttons to confusing interfaces, the BigPurplePhone offers a more accessible, user-friendly experience that empowers individuals to communicate effortlessly.
Some key reasons to consider the BigPurplePhone include:
- Simplified Communication: Designed with older adults in mind, it ensures ease of use with minimal effort.
- Safety Features: The SOS button and medical reminders make it an excellent tool for seniors who need assistance in emergencies or managing their health.
- Remote Care Management: Caregivers can monitor and manage the phone, reducing the burden on family members and improving the quality of care.
- By offering all these features, the BigPurplePhone is a lifeline for seniors who need a specialized phone system to maintain communication and independence.
The Future of MCS Funding and Support at Home
While the MyAgedCare Support at Home program is still evolving, the inclusion of multifunctional communication systems (MCSs) like the BigPurplePhone is a significant step toward better support for seniors with communication challenges. As we continue to work with policymakers and advocacy groups, we hope to bring more clarity to the funding process and make it easier for seniors to access the tools they need.
Final Thoughts
If you or a loved one struggles with using a regular phone due to age-related disabilities, the BigPurplePhone could be the perfect solution. With its user-friendly features and robust assistive technology, it ensures that communication remains accessible, safe, and effective.
If you think the BigPurplePhone is right for you, speak to a healthcare professional to get a prescription and start the process for funding under the Support at Home program.
For more information and links to resources on accessing the Support at Home program, please visit our official page.
Information correct as of August 28, 2025.