Understanding the changes to supports for people requiring aged care with a disability
As we age, accessing the right disability support is critical to having a fulfilled and happy life. This goes beyond standard aged care services. It means being able to receive services that are specifically tailored to aid disabilities, from basic assistance, to high-level care needs.
The fact of life is that disabilities are more prevalent as we grow older. Two-fifths of people with a disability are over the age of 65. To further put things in perspective, about 88% of people over the age of 90 have a disability of some kind.
Our needs change as we get older. So does our status in the community, and our designation as elders. Older Australians living with disability become participants in the disability aged care system, which has different rules and requirements than those of the standard national disability network. It’s important to understand these distinctions to ensure that you are receiving the right care at the right time.
With all the conflicting information available online, and from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, HealSoul is here to make things make sense. We want all people to find the life they want, whether they are ageing, living with a disability, or both. It’s part of our commitment to the wider Australian community.
In this article, we answer all the questions you have about accessing disability supports over the age of 65. If you don’t find your question answered here, get in touch with our team. They’ll be able to give you advice related to your specific situation and eligibility criteria.
Can over 65s access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)?
Unfortunately, people over the age of 65 are not eligible to access the NDIS. But don’t worry – this is not the end of the road. There is still a Commonwealth home support programme available for people with disability over the age of 65. The aim of these programs is to offer a continuing connection between the NDIS and aged care disability support.
What can I do as someone requiring disability aged care support?
However, if you were already receiving disability support services before, then you’ll be able to access the same services through a different program. The Commonwealth Continuity Of Support Programme (CoS) provides disability aged care supports and other government-funded services.
Unfortunately, the CoS Programme is no longer accepting new participants as of last year. If you have recently turned 65 or are about to soon, there are still options available.
Can I access a home care packages program?
My Aged Care is another government program that helps provide easy access to funded services, including:
- Home modifications for mobility and safety
- Aids to make everyday tasks easier
- Personal care products to assist with hygiene
- Therapies to improve quality of life, like physio and podiatry
- Transportation to and from social and community events
- Nursing and other types of in-home medical care
What’s good about My Aged Care is that it can be tailored to meet your needs. It doesn’t matter if you live at home or in residential aged care, My Aged Care is here to support Australians where they need it.
What about accessing disability supports through my state?
Many states and territories around Australia have stepped in to fill the gap in aged care disability support apparent in the NDIS. For example, the Victorian government will offer funding to support your accommodation, meaning you don’t have to move as you age. They’ll also continue to provide subsidies for certain aids and equipment.
It’s worth getting in touch with your state’s health department to see what’s available. You can also get in touch with the team at HealSoul. We can chat with you about your situation and give you accurate advice on the best course of action.
Where else can I access support?
If you are ineligible to receive support from both the NDIS and My Aged Care, there are still other services out there for you. You may be in this position because you are unable to receive NDIS supports, or because of some other lifestyle circumstance.
If you’re looking to live independently on your own for some time, you can contact an Independent Living Centre, which can put you in touch with a range of solutions that may be able to support your independence.
Occupational Therapists and physiotherapists are invaluable resources for older Australians. Not only can they attend to very specific physical needs, but they can also advise on assistive technology and modifications for your home.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with disabilities and over the age of 65 can also find tailored support. Today, many providers deliver services with respect to cultural hallmarks, like the traditional owners of the land they operate upon. It’s best to ask your provider through My Aged Care for more information.
How can HealSoul help?
HealSoul does not provide services under the My Aged Care system. However, if you are under the age of 65 and are eligible to receive NDIS support, we can help. We can work with you directly to form an NDIS plan that gives you the services you need for your specific situation.
This plan can form the basis for the ongoing support for the care you will receive as you age. You’ll come to understand what works for you, and decide upon the support systems that will give you the greatest opportunity to live independently on your terms.
Because living with a disability and growing old are both about finding independence, and doing so with compassion assistance. Every person is an individual, and has their own goals for how they want to live and interact with society as a whole. That’s why we strive to treat everyone with the dignity they deserve.
At HealSoul, we understand this, and we want to help you find the life that you want. If you’re ready to do that, get in touch with our team. They can get you started with a free consultation to assess your needs.
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