Support for ageing in place

The NDIS may provide funding to support ageing in place if started before the age of 65 years. After the age of 65 years, NDIS may continue or be changed to aged care funding. The My Aged Care website outlines support options for people with disabilities who are ageing.

Disability organisations and social workers can help to identify support options and facilitate services.

Services that may support ageing in place at home, or in a group home or hostel, include:

• community nursing (eg continence care)
• volunteer or ‘befriending’ services if the person feels isolated
• day centres for social interaction
• transport services (eg subsidised taxis)
• disability support staff at home, or in the community (if the person has NDIS funding).

The general practitioner should periodically ask carers and support people about stress and assess their ability to care for an ageing person with developmental disability. Consider respite services such as day and night in-home respite, and residential home placement for short periods. An ageing support person can be referred for in-home aged care assistance, or an occupational therapist for functional or needs assessment.

See also information on respite under the NDIS, short-term respite care and help at home.