The National Disability Insurance Scheme is an Australian Government initiative designed to provide funding to disabled Australians who have registered. The NDIS is overseen by the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency); aside from providing funding to the disabled, the organisation also connects care services with disabled Australians.
NDIS Main Functions
The NDIS provides essential connections between certified healthcare providers and disabled people. Organisations such as True Living provide disability short term accommodation for respite care, which allows a full-time carer to recharge their batteries. They also provide in-home support, with day visits from local carers and care ranges from daily assistance to live-in caring.
Registering for NDIS support
Every disabled Australian should register for NDIS funding, which can be done via their website. Start with the ‘Am I eligible?’ section; your answers to these questions will determine your eligibility. Your application will be supported by a local caregiver and once approved, you have access to funding for a range of services, which include the following:
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- Assessments – Assessing living conditions and home adjustments to aid mobility.
- Creating a personal development plan.
- Assisted independent living.
- Assisted supported living.
- Exercise rehabilitation.
- Physiotherapy.
Creating an individual personal development plan
Typically, an occupational therapist would work with you to create a personal development plan that is unique. The therapist would ask you about your everyday life to get a clearer picture of your daily activities, identifying weak areas and difficulties that you need to focus on. The therapist would usually interview one family member also, in order to get an overall picture of family support. Click here for the therapeutic side of baking.
Goal setting
An integral aspect of your personal development plan is setting goals. Identifying goals can be a difficult thing to do, but you have healthcare professionals to help in this regard. It might be several healthcare workers that come together to create your development plan, while family members are also encouraged to participate for a holistic approach.
Questions that can lead to goals and objectives”
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- “What is working well in your life?”
- “In what areas do you think your life could be improved?”
- “Are you currently employed?”
- “What do you think your strengths are?”
- “What is the most important thing to you at the moment?”
Setting goals is an integral part of your personal development plan, as it highlights short-term and long-term objectives.
Planning meeting
When you attend your planning meeting, make sure that you bring all of your paperwork, plus if you have any questions, make a note so you can ask the healthcare provider. Hopefully, the planning meeting leads to an approved plan and you can receive the assistance and support that you need.
If you would like to find out if you qualify for NDIS funding, start with an online search to find their website and follow the instructions.