Exploring 6 Types of Disability Accommodation (Full Guide)
15 June 2023
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a transformative program that aims to provide support and services to individuals with disabilities. One of the crucial areas covered under the NDIS is accommodation options for the specially abled, and the agency recognizes that suitable housing plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of life and independence of such people.
In this blog post, we will explore 6 different types of accommodation options available under the NDIS, including Short Term Accommodation (STA), Supported Independent Living (SIL), Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA), Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), group homes, and individual homes for complex participants.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Short Term Accommodation (STA)
Short-Term Accommodation (STA) is a flexible and temporary accommodation option available under the NDIS. STA provides individuals with disabilities access to short-term stays in a supportive environment when their usual living arrangements are unavailable or when additional support is required. The NDIS typically provides funding for STA for a maximum of 28 days per year, allowing individuals to stay for up to 14 consecutive days at a time.
STA can be beneficial in various situations, such as during periods of transition, respite for caregivers, or when specialised support is needed temporarily. It offers individuals the opportunity to experience different living environments and access tailored support services for a limited duration.
During their short-term stay, individuals in STA may receive assistance with personal care, daily living tasks, medication management, and engaging in recreational activities. The duration of the stay can vary based on the individual’s needs and circumstances.
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an accommodation option under the NDIS that enables individuals with disabilities to live independently with support staff. This option provides participants with the opportunity to develop essential life skills while having access to the necessary support to maintain their independence.
SIL can be tailored to suit the individual needs and preferences of participants, and the support provided can range from 24/7 assistance to intermittent support depending on the person’s requirements.
SIL offers individuals with disabilities a sense of autonomy and control over their living arrangements. They can live with others who may have similar interests and experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging. SIL can also be provided for individuals with complex needs who live on their own, ensuring they receive the necessary support to maintain their independence.
The support staff in SIL homes are trained to help out with various tasks, such as personal care, household chores, medication management, and accessing community resources.
Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA)
Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) is another type of accommodation option available under the NDIS. MTA provides temporary accommodation and support services for individuals with disabilities who require short-term assistance. MTA stays are typically limited to a maximum of 90 days, allowing individuals the time and resources needed to plan for more permanent housing options.
This type of accommodation is particularly beneficial for individuals transitioning between different stages of their lives, such as moving from a hospital or rehabilitation facility back into the community.
MTA offers a supportive environment where individuals can receive the necessary care and support while they work towards their long-term accommodation goals. MTA can be an essential stepping stone for individuals with disabilities who are in the process of finding permanent accommodation. It provides a stable and secure living environment while allowing individuals to access additional support services as needed.
MTA accommodations are equipped with the necessary facilities to meet the specific needs of residents, such as wheelchair accessibility, assistive technology, and specialised equipment.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is designed for individuals with significant functional impairments or high-support needs. SDA refers to the physical accommodation itself, which is purpose-built or modified to cater to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
SDA properties incorporate features such as wheelchair accessibility, specialised equipment, and technology to enhance independence and improve the quality of life for residents. The NDIS provides funding for SDA to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to suitable & secure housing options.
SDA offers individuals with disabilities a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and freestanding houses. These accommodations are designed to promote independence and provide a safe and accessible living environment. SDA properties are categorised into various levels, known as design categories, based on the level of support they can offer.
The design categories include improved liveability, fully accessible, robust, and high physical support.
Each design category has specific features and modifications tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to appropriate housing options that support their unique requirements.
Group Homes
Group homes are a popular accommodation option for people with disabilities under the NDIS.
These homes offer a shared living environment where individuals with disabilities live together and receive support from trained staff.
Group homes provide a sense of community and enable residents to develop social connections and engage in shared activities. The support staff in group homes assist with daily living tasks, including personal care, meal preparation, and accessing community services. Group homes can be an ideal option for individuals who prefer a communal living arrangement and enjoy the benefits of social interaction and peer support.
Group homes provide a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities can develop meaningful relationships and participate in various social activities.
These properties are designed to accommodate the unique needs of the individuals residing in them, such as accessible features, adapted bathrooms, and communal spaces that promote socialisation and community engagement.
Individual Support for Complex Participants
Individual support for complex participants cater to individuals with disabilities who have specific and complex needs that require a higher level of specialised accommodation and assistance. Homes are designed and customised to meet the unique requirements of the individual, taking into consideration factors such as mobility, sensory impairments, and behavioural support needs.
This is where we can help.
Hikma House has been widely recognised as one of Melbourne’s most professional complex care providers and we take great pride in that reputation. We have worked tirelessly to pursue quality services across the board. Our team includes dedicated full-time complex care staff who are among the best-trained professionals in their field.
Individual homes for complex participants offer a personalised and tailored environment that promotes independence and maximises the individual’s quality of life. The support provided in these homes is highly individualised and may include the assistance of specialised support workers, therapists, or other healthcare professionals.
Hikma House’ complex care homes are equipped with specialised features and technologies to address the specific challenges faced by the individual. For example, individuals with mobility impairments may have customised bathrooms and modified living spaces to enhance accessibility.
The support provided in these homes is comprehensive and focuses on all aspects of an individual’s life, including personal care, therapy, community integration, and skill development.
FAQ's
Q1: How can individuals with disabilities access accommodation options under the NDIS?
To access accommodation options under the NDIS, individuals with disabilities need to meet the eligibility criteria and have their support needs assessed by the NDIS. They can then work with their NDIS planner or support coordinator to identify suitable accommodation options based on their specific needs and preferences.
Q2: Are the costs of accommodation under the NDIS fully covered?
The costs of accommodation under the NDIS vary depending on the type of accommodation and the individual’s support needs. While the NDIS provides funding for accommodation, participants may be required to contribute towards the costs based on their income and personal circumstances.
Q3: Can individuals with disabilities choose their preferred accommodation option?
Yes, individuals with disabilities have the choice and control to select their preferred accommodation option based on their needs and preferences. The NDIS aims to provide flexibility to participants in making decisions about their housing arrangements.
Q4: Can individuals switch between different accommodation options under the NDIS?
Yes, individuals can switch between different accommodation options under the NDIS if their needs or preferences change over time. The NDIS acknowledges that individuals’ circumstances may evolve, and they can review and adjust their accommodation arrangements as required.
Conclusion
The NDIS offers a wide range of accommodation options to cater to the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. Whether it is supported independent living, medium-term accommodation, specialist disability accommodation, group homes, or individual homes for complex participants, the NDIS aims to ensure that people with disabilities have access to suitable and appropriate housing options that promote independence, inclusion, and a high quality of life.
That said, navigating the NDIS can be challenging. If you are seeking comfortable and secure accommodation options in and around Melbourne, get in touch with us. We would love to help.