No two people are the same, not even twins! Neither are two or more people living with similar disabilities the same. Personalised disability services ensure that each individual gets the support and assistance that they deserve based on their specific needs and preferences.
If you live with a disability or know anyone who does, then this article is for you. Together, we will explore the various disability support services available under NDIS and highlight the importance of customised care plans for individuals living with disability.
Core Disability Support Services
As mentioned before, disability support services are designed to assist and promote the well-being and independence of individuals with disabilities.
In Australia, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) assists individuals in receiving personalised support plans based on their unique circumstances. The following are the four types of core disability support services available for participants:
Personal Care
Personal care services help individuals with essential daily activities like bathing, dressing, and toileting. Here, support workers help the participants to maintain good hygiene, prevent health complications, and promote comfort. Personal care support services also include:
- Mobility assistance for individuals who need support moving around their home or community
- Medication management to ensure individuals take their prescribed medications on time and in the correct dosage.
- Assistance with meal preparation is yet another aspect of personal care services. The carers ensure that individuals have access to nutritious meals based on their dietary needs.
Transport Services
The major aim of the transport support services is to help with mobility outside the home. Depending on their needs and disability, some individuals living with a disability may have difficulty getting the best transportation option, and this is where transport support services come in.
They assist participants in meeting up with their medical appointments, accessing educational and employment opportunities, and participating in social activities. Many disability support providers even offer adapted vehicles designed for wheelchair accessibility and other mobility needs.
Social Support and Community Participation
Nobody should be in isolation, and this is why social support services help individuals living with disabilities build meaningful relationships and stay engaged with their communities.
These services usually include structured programmes like group activities, skill-building workshops, and social outings. Disability support providers also offer one-on-one tutoring to help participants develop life skills like communication, budgeting, and job readiness.
Respite Care
Respite care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers while ensuring that individuals with disabilities continue to receive professional care in their absence. This service can range from a few hours to several days or weeks, depending on the needs of both the caregiver and the individual.
This support solution allows primary caregivers to attend to personal matters or take a break to recharge their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For individuals with disabilities, this temporary change of scenery and support provides new opportunities – they get to experience new environments, make a few like-minded friends and interact with different carers that can significantly boost their morale and self-esteem.
How to Obtain a Personalised Support Plan
The primary benefit of personalised support plans is that they prioritise the unique needs of each individual.
As aforesaid, no two people experience disability the same way, so a personalised plan ensures that each person’s goals and needs are met. This approach also helps to improve independence because tailoring support to each individual’s strengths and challenges would help them maintain control over their lives.
In addition, health fluctuations, new opportunities, or evolving goals of individuals can happen at any time, and since the plans are tailored to each person’s needs, they can also change as circumstances change. The following are the basic steps to follow to obtain a personalised support plan from the NDIS:
Assess Needs and Goals
The first step is to identify the type of support you need.
Do you need daily living assistance, mobility support or social participation? Identifying your needs and goals will help you to know the support plan that would be most suitable for you.
Apply for NDIS Funding
Depending on your needs, the cost it would require, and your budget, you can apply for the NDIS funding for personalised support services. This involves submitting relevant medical and personal information to determine funding allocation.
Consult with a Support Coordinator or NDIS Provider
Once funding is approved, a support coordinator or disability service provider will work with you to develop a tailored plan. This consultation ensures that all your needs, preferences and wellness goals are considered while drafting your personalised plan.
Review and Adjust the Plan Regularly
As circumstances change, it’s essential to revisit and update the support plan to ensure it remains relevant and effective. You should review the plan regularly so it can reflect your needs and goals every time.
Conclusion
Thanks to the available disability support services, Australians living with disabilities can now live more confidently and independently.
If you are living with a disability or you know someone who does, this is your cue to explore the available disability services in Perth and make a way to embrace a rewarding life. Contact a registered NDIS provider and get a bespoke support plan that is carefully tailored just for you and your lifestyle preferences.