Social and functional support for people with developmental disability

Optimal health care for people with developmental disability should include facilitating their participation within the community.

Social and functional supports are mainly provided by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (see NDIS for the types of support that are funded) or Disability Support Pension. This Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) report also outlines common types of assistance.

General practitioners can contribute by providing information about relevant entitlements and services (eg multipurpose taxis, companion card for public transport and sporting or entertainment events).

Disability advocacy groups and parent or peer support groups can be useful sources of information. See also Better Health Channel information on disability services.

See children, adolescents or people who are ageing for more information on social and functional support for people with developmental disability.