Providing the right care for our family members is of the highest priority. However, for those with extreme special needs and requirements, doing everything to provide them with the care they need from home can be challenging. In this case, Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) can help.
The first part of this blog will cover what Specialist Disability Accommodation is and how it can help you. The second part of the article will talk about how to choose the right provider for specialist disability accommodation so that you can get the best possible care for you or your loved one.
What is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) defines it as: “Specialist disability accommodation provides a home-like environment with features and services that support people with disabilities to live as independently as possible.” Simply put, specialist disability accommodation is a place where someone with a disability can live comfortably and independently. It’s housing that’s specifically designed to cater to the needs of those living with a self-limiting disability.
It really depends on the individual needs of each person and what they need as well as where they are based (in terms of location). This type of accommodation can be found in group homes, residential aged care facilities, or even in your own home.
How can specialist disability accommodation help you?
There are many benefits of living in specialist disability accommodation. Some of the key advantages include:
– A private environment where you have round the clock access to Carers. SDA provides you with privacy by allowing you to live in a house or apartment with other people who have disabilities but within your own private room. This means you’re never far away from the care you need, but you have the opportunity to be more independent.
-Less stress on your family. SDA reduces stress on your family by providing you with accommodation and care that is tailored to your needs. You and your family can focus on spending time together and enjoying your relationship, instead of worrying about if you’re receiving the right care.
– Living in a familiar setting with peers who have similar disabilities or challenges. These are other NDIS participants who also understand what you’re going through. Being around like-minded individuals can be very beneficial in many different ways. It helps reduce feelings of isolation, provides a support network, and most importantly have someone to spend time with and feel connected with. It will also provide you with more opportunities to socialise.
– SDA also provides greater independence and control over what you do every day. You get to choose what you want to do and how you want to spend your time. This could be something as simple as going for a walk outside, cooking dinner, or watching TV.
– Having access to additional support and assistance from Support Workers helps relieve stress. A Support Workers job involves things like preparing meals for you, assisting with any medical needs that arise, and also providing additional care. NDIS participants can select their own Support Worker(s) based on who is most compatible with them.
Above all, Specialist Disability Accommodation provides a safe and comfortable place for NDIS participants to live.
The next question to ask is what does SDA look like?
There is a range of different types of specialist disability accommodation that NDIS participants can choose from. This includes:
– Group homes – this type of SDA usually has six to eight residents living in one home and provides carers with live-in support around the clock
– Residential aged care facilities – these are designed for NDIS participants who are aged 65 years or older and can offer a combination of residential, nursing, and dementia care
– Shared living accommodation – this is a great option for NDIS participants who want to live independently but need some assistance with things like cooking and cleaning. Shared living accommodation provides you with your own private home as well as shared communal areas, like a kitchen or lounge room
As you can see, Specialist Disability Accommodation provides a range of different options that NDIS participants and the elderly can benefit from.
What Makes a Good Specialist Disability Accommodation Provider?
Next, let’s dive into what you should look for when choosing an SDA provider. First, it’s important they are NDIS registered to ensure they are qualified to provide SDA. When choosing a provider, it’s also important to consider what’s important to you. Do you need a place close to your family and friends? Or do you require specialist equipment that isn’t available in your local area? It’s also important that the service feels like home. The staff should be warm and welcoming, and the environment comfortable for when you’re not feeling well or just need some time out.
Finally, make sure to ask questions. This is your chance to get all of the information you need about the accommodation, services offered, fees etc. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you don’t understand something or aren’t comfortable. NDIS and Specialist Disability Accommodation providers are there to help you, so make sure they know what your needs and preferences are.
If you’re looking for some of the best SDA providers in Australia, look no further than OSAN. We have been providing quality care for NDIS participants for years and always put the needs of our clients first. For more information or to take a tour of one of our facilities, please contact us today!
