Finding the best possible disability support for a loved one can feel like navigating a maze. Rest assured, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Australia has a wealth of resources, but knowing where to look and what to consider can make all the difference.
This piece aims to help you understand the options available and how to find the right fit for your loved one’s unique needs. Although the journey can take time, finding tailored disability support for your loved one can ultimately bring peace of mind to all involved.
First, Identify The Needs
Identifying your loved one’s specific needs is the first step. Being clear on these requirements upfront will help streamline the search and ensure a match with an appropriate provider.
Consider The Cost
Supporting a person living with disabilities does not have to break the bank. Thanks to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), those with a recognised disability can access financial assistance to cover their care expenses.
What Role Does The NDIS Play?
The NDIS is Australia’s national scheme designed for people living with disabilities. Its main function is to provide funding directly to eligible individuals. These funds can support various needs, depending on your unique situation and the goals detailed in your personalised plan.
Furthermore, the NDIS connects individuals living with disabilities to services in their local community. This connection is pivotal in integrating them into society and allowing them to live more independently. The NDIS aims to ensure you have the resources to maintain social engagement and live fulfilling lives through employment, volunteering, or other community participation methods.
Notably, the NDIS takes a lifetime approach to support. This approach means investing early in people living with disabilities to improve later life outcomes. It is also crucial to note the role of the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission in ensuring the delivery of high-quality and safe services to NDIS participants.
Eligibility for NDIS Support
Eligibility for NDIS support is determined based on specific criteria, including age (must be between 7 and 65 when applying), geographical location, residency, and disability or early intervention requirements.
Individualised Support Provision Through The NDIS
Packages creation occurs in two stages, where the first is about exploring and designing the individualised living options an individual needs. This determination involves working out where you want to live, who you want to live with, what support you’ll need, and who you want to provide that support. Furthermore, support funded by the NDIS can aim to help participants complete daily living activities.
The NDIS (through the National Disability Insurance Agency) strives to create each package based on the participant’s unique needs and goals, thus providing a highly individualised approach to support while promoting agency and autonomy.
Other Options
When it comes to disability support in Australia, options are plentiful. Here are some categories that operate alongside the NDIS:
- Mainstream Supports: These are typically available through government services and aim to ensure you have the necessary support levels to prosper.
- Informal Supports: Refers to frameworks that come together to provide support for individuals living with disabilities based on unique needs. They include friends, family, and local communities.
- Community Participation Supports: These services are available through community and religious groups, non-governmental organisations, local councils, and many more.
Conclusion:
Explore all available options and consider which aligns best with your loved one’s needs and lifestyle.
Finding the right disability support for your loved one may not be easy, but the reward of seeing them receive the care they need outweighs the effort. And remember, seeking help and advice from professionals is always a good place to start when you are unsure.
