Using your NDIS Funds

A Functional Capacity Assessment is usually conducted by healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, or rehabilitation specialists.

They may use standardised tests, observation, interviews, and sometimes assistive technology to gather data on the individual's capabilities and limitations.

So can a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) be performed online?

Yes, it's possible for many components of a Functional Capacity Assessment to be completed online, especially in situations where in-person assessment may not be feasible or accessible.

The extent to which an FCA can be conducted online depends on various factors, including the technologies available, and the individual's specific needs and circumstances.

There are many ways information can be collected online, including:

• Surveys
• Interviews
• Observations via zoom, videos, photos
• Videos on your phone of every activities
• Conversations with families, supporters and carers 
• Photos of your home, work or school environment 
• Inhome visits with the help of a local practioner or family member

Is an online Functional Capacity Assessment suitable for all disabilities?

Most disabilities, and their associated functional impairments, can be assessed online. For example:

• Cognitive impairment (Stroke, Acquired Brain Injury, Learning Disability, and more)
• Physical disability (Spinal cord injuries, Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy and more)
• Psychosocial disability (Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder and more)
• Mental health (Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, and more)
• Neurological disorders (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis) and neurodiverse individuals (e.g. Autism Spectrum Disorder)

What kind of report will you get with an online Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA)?

The FCA report will be the same as when a face-to-face assessment is performed.

Here are some key components that may be included in an FCA report for the NDIS:

Background Information:
The report may start with background information about the individual, including their personal details, medical history, diagnoses, and any relevant information about their disability or condition.
 
Assessment Findings:
The report will detail the findings from the assessment process. This may include observations, standardized assessment results, and information gathered through interviews or discussions with the individual and their caregivers or support network.
 
Functional Capacity:
The report will outline the individual's current level of functional capacity across various domains, such as activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), mobility, communication, cognitive abilities, social interaction, and behavior management.
 
Support Needs:
Based on the assessment findings, the report will identify the individual's specific support needs. This may include the type and level of assistance required to perform daily tasks, manage personal care, participate in community activities, and achieve their goals and aspirations.
 
Goals and Aspirations:
The report may include information about the individual's goals, aspirations, and desired outcomes. This could involve short-term and long-term goals related to independence, skill development, social participation, employment, education, or other areas of life.
 
Recommendations:
The FCA report will typically provide recommendations for supports and interventions to address the individual's needs and goals. These recommendations may include assistive technology, therapy services, specialized equipment, home modifications, access to community programs or services, and other forms of support.
 
Evidence-Based Justification:
The report will include evidence-based justification for the recommended supports and interventions, explaining how they align with the individual's assessed needs, goals, and best interests.
 
Plan Implementation:
The report may outline a proposed plan for implementing the recommended supports and interventions, including timelines, responsibilities, and steps for monitoring progress and adjusting the plan as needed.

Funding for support in your NDIS Plan with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

Support can be funded in your NDIS plan in a variety of ways. You can have funding for drop-in support, support to engage in the community, support based at home for all of your activities, support at a day program etc.

To be eligible for funding for support, you must meet the NDIS eligibility criteria. This resource focuses on Supported Independent Living (SIL) and the eligibility requirements for SIL.

Due to high support needs, SIL is typically required in the home for participants with complex acquired brain injuries.

Supported Independent Living (SIL) Eligibility

The NDIS has eligibility criteria that must be met by the funding for any support to be included in your NDIS plan. This includes SIL.

You are required to demonstrate eligibility for SIL before receiving funding for your in-home support needs.

SIL is typically funded for those who require support 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, including overnight support. While this is not legislated, of this 24-hour per day support, there is a consensus that to access SIL, you require direct support for 8 or more hours. The support you require must relate directly to your diagnosis of acquired brain injury and any other conditions recognised by the NDIS.

If you do not require such a high intensity of support, SIL might not be the right model of care for you. Consider exploring drop-in supports, or Individualised Living Options (ILO).

Is Supported Independent Living (SIL) Reasonable and Necessary?

Eligibility for SIL must meet the NDIS reasonable and necessary criteria. The reasonable and necessary criteria involve definitions and rules set by the NDIS which they must consider when approving or declining funded supports.

The NDIS will consider the following when approving or declining SIL:

1. Goals

SIL will assist you to pursue and achieve the goals in your plan.

2. Social & Economic Participation

SIL will assist you in undertaking activities to facilitate your social and economic participation.

3. Value for Money

The SIL model of care requested represents value for money. This means the cost of the recommended SIL supports is considered reasonable relative to both the benefits achieved and the cost of alternative supports.

4. Effective and Beneficial

SIL will be effective and beneficial for you. This means it will meet your needs related to your acquired brain injury. Your lived experience in previous SIL settings or short-term accommodation (STA) will help in justifying this requirement.

5. Reasonable Expectations for Your Family and Informal Supports

Funding of SIL takes account of what it is reasonable to expect families, carers, informal networks, and the community to provide. They consider your existing supports available, and what must be provided by a SIL provider, in order for your needs to be met.

Acquired brain injury can result in lifelong physical, cognitive, and emotional difficulties. You can also experience a wide range of co-occurring conditions. The impact of your disability and secondary health conditions can be used to justify how it is not considered reasonable to expect family members to cater to your support needs over the long term.

6. Related to NDIS & Your Disability

SIL is most appropriately funded or provided through the NDIS, instead of another funding body available. This means the need for SIL relates directly to your disability and your in-home support needs.

The NDIS also considers what other supports you need in your home, and how these supports will all work together to ensure SIL is the most appropriate support.

For an easy-to-understand breakdown of reasonable and necessary from MyCareSpace, see here:

What does the NDIS consider when approving funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

The NDIS considers a range of factors when determining if SIL is reasonable and necessary to fund for you. Considerations include:

• your current situation, goals, and aspirations
• where you live now and your future home and living goals
• your independent living skills and potential to build on these
• supports you need to achieve your home and living goals
• information about your day-to-day support needs
• any alternative home and living options

This is outlined in the SIL Operational Guidelines by the NDIS.

The NDIS will review any reports from allied health professionals or providers that are submitted to them as part of your application for SIL. 

The most sought-after assessment is a Functional Capacity Assessment, completed by an Occupational Therapist (OT). Following the assessment, the OT will prepare a Functional Capacity Assessment Report that also includes recommendations specific to SIL.

The NDIS to not provide a template for therapists to complete a SIL report. Each OT provider has their own template and assessment process. For this reason, it may also be called a SIL Assessment, Support Needs Assessment, or Housing Assessment.

What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?

A Functional Capacity Assessment is an in-depth assessment completed by an OT with you in your home. The assessment addresses every aspect of your day-to-day life. A report is completed following the assessment which outlines your daily life, and difficulties experienced related to your disability and support needs.

The report includes recommendations for NDIS support and services you require to address any challenges and goals you wish to achieve.

How does a Functional Capacity Assessment for SIL differ from a standard Functional Capacity Assessment?

A quality assessment completed by an OT for SIL should include specific details and recommendations regarding your support needs across all of your daily activities and routines. Across every activity you engage in, the report should provide detail on:

• The ratio of support required (how many people are involved in your care)
• The intensity of support required (the type of care quality necessary based on your needs)
• The best context for this support to succeed (the model of care best suited to you - who you live with, where you live etc.)

The report should include details on what support you require across the day and overnight. The report must refer to your informal supports (family and friends), and how they are unable to meet all of your daily living needs, which means that SIL is necessary for you.

The report should reference SIL eligibility, which includes the reasonable and necessary criteria, as discussed above.

When working with an OT for a SIL assessment, it is important to feel assured that they are skilled in this area and are confident in recommending SIL for you. If they determine SIL may not be the best support model for you, they should discuss this with you during or following the assessment, particularly if they anticipate the NDIS will be unlikely to approve SIL funding. 

Remember, ultimately the decision to approve and decline SIL is the role of the NDIS. The role of the OT is to present evidence of your disability and provide recommendations, concerning relevant legislation so that the NDIS can decide funded supports.

How can I get a Functional Capacity Assessment for SIL?

To find an Occupational Therapist who is experienced in completing a Functional Capacity Assessment for SIL for people with acquired brain injury, reach out to our Connections Team.

This FREE service can connect you with an OT in your area.

Request a SIL Assessment for Acquired Brain Injury

Submitting evidence to the NDIS for SIL

Once your Functional Capacity Assessment has been completed and you have your report which includes recommendations for SIL, you may consider what other evidence is required to submit to the NDIS.

The more justification you provide that illustrates your support needs and need for SIL, the more evidence the NDIS has available to consider when approving SIL in your NDIS Plan.

Other information prepared by family members, carers, or yourself may help communicate your needs, and how insufficient access to support may impact your health, well-being and quality of life.

This is often described as an Impact Statement - click to find out more.

The final step is to prepare and submit a Home and Living Request to the NDIS.

Submitting a Home and Living Request for SIL

To request SIL funding, you are required as mentioned above to submit a Home and Living Request.

This involves preparing a supporting evidence form which you can download here.

The form can be completed and submitted in one of the following ways:

• within 100 days of your NDIS plan end date, for consideration during a scheduled plan reassessment
• with a Change of Details or Change of Situation Form
• with a Request for a Review of a Decision Form

The form will help participants to select the correct option based on their current needs. 

If you have a Support Coordinator, they can assist you in completing and submitting the form by one of the following methods:

• Via email to: [email protected]
• Via mail to: NDIA, GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601
• In person at your local NDIS or partner office. 

Ensure the submission also includes the Home and Living Form, as well as any reports prepared by yourself, carers or health professionals. This includes the OT Functional Capacity Assessment with Recommendations for SIL.

The NDIS will review all documents provided to decide whether to fund SIL. You will typically be informed of their decision via email. If SIL is approved, this will likely result in the generation of a new NDIS plan. If SIL is declined, you will be offered the opportunity to have this decision reviewed.

How do I find a SIL provider in my area?

When SIL is approved in your plan, you will be provided with a sum of funding for SIL in your Core Support budget.

You are not automatically allocated to a Provider and have choice and control over which provider you engage with for SIL.

Need help finding a SIL provider? Get in touch with the MyCareSpace Connections Team for assistance navigating the NDIS and finding a SIL provider in your area.

Find A SIL Provider

Welcome to the NDIS Acquired Brain Injury Series

If you have found your way to this page, it means you are interested in learning more about acquired brain injury (ABI) and navigating the NDIS.

Our MyCareSpace NDIS Navigators have prepared a series of resources that unpack the topics frequently asked by people with acquired brain injury and their families who want to better understand how to use their NDIS funding to achieve their goals.

Each topic has a different theme and provides you with additional links and resources to further your learning. Starting off with an overview of acquired brain injury and the NDIS...

What is Acquired Brain Injury?

An acquired brain injury is the result of damage to the brain. It can be caused by:

• Trauma or injury to the head (referred to as a traumatic brain injury)
• Stroke
• Drugs, alcohol or poisons
• Lack of oxygen to the brain for an extended time (for example, a near-drowning)
• infection
• Tumour
• Neuro-degenerative conditions can impact the brain, such as:
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer's disease or some other form of dementia
• ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)

As an acquired brain injury can occur in a variety of ways, brain damage can cause a range of different problems for individuals.  An acquired brain injury may impact your capacity to engage in day-to-day activities in one way or another. Support needs may be minor, moderate or maximal.

Learn all about Acquired Brain Injury:

What is Acquired Brain Injury?

Accessing the NDIS with an Acquired Brain Injury

If you have a brain injury that has resulted in permanent functional impairment, you may be eligible to the NDIS. 3% of the 610,502 active participants in the NDIS have a primary disability of an acquired brain injury

When applying to the NDIS, evidence of having a brain injury will be required for your application. You must be able to demonstrate how your permanent impairment results in a lifelong disability for it to be funded by the NDIS. 

Find out more about what you need to include in an NDIS application for an acquired brain injury:

Accessing the NDIS with an Acquired Brain Injury

Acquired Brain Injury and Assistive Technology

In some cases, people with an acquired brain injury demonstrate high support needs due the severe impact of their injury. This may result in a need for assistive technology.

Assistive technology that you can benefit from with an acquired brain injury includes:

• ​Mobility Devices such as a wheelchair
• Transfer Assistive Technology such as hoists and slings
• Bedroom Assistive Technology such as adjustable beds and pressure mattresses
• Bathroom Assistive Technology such as shower commodes and toilet equipment
• Living and Dining Assistive Technology such as seating and special trays
• Kitchen Assistive Technology such as tools to help you cut and prepare food

Find out more about how you can benefit from assistive technology:

Acquired Brain Injury and Assistive Technology in the NDIS

Supported Independent Living and Acquired Brain Injury

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is the support or supervision of daily tasks by paid support workers to help you to live as independently as possible. The support you receive through SIL relates directly to your support needs in the home. SIL support typically involves daytime and overnight support which is provided individually (1:1) or shared (1:2, 1:3, 1:4 etc)

Depending on your needs, SIL may include the following supports:

• Assistance with personal care, like showering, dressing and toileting
• Assistance with household tasks such as cleaning, preparing meals, washing clothes and cleaning
• Active overnight and/or sleepover support
• Assistance with complex medical needs
• Positive behaviour support management
• Assisting with administering medication and management of health needs related to your disability, such as bowel care, catheter, epilepsy, asthma and tube feeding

Learn all about how SIL can help you, high physcial support needs, ratio's of support etc here:

Supported Independent Living and Acquired Brain Injury

How to Get Funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL)

So you now know how SIL is funded in your NDIS plan, but how do you get approved for funding for SIL?

This resource contains helpful easy to understand information on the following topics to help you in accessing the support you need:

• SIL Eligibility
• Is SIL Reasonable and Necessary?
• What do the NDIS consider when approving funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
• What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
• How does a Functional Capacity Assessment for SIL differ to a standard Functional Capacity Assessment?
• How can I get a Functional Capacity Assessment for Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
• How do I submit a request for SIL to the NDIS?

Find answers to these frequently asked questions here:

How to Get Funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL)

How to maximise your SIL funding with an Acquired Brain Injury

A recurring question the MyCareSpace team are asked is "how do I make the most of my NDIS funding?". There is often confusion about what will and won't be funded, what is considered reasonable and necessary for the NDIS to fund, and what is considered a personal expense. These lines in particular can be blurred when in-home supports are involved, such as SIL.

To make the most of your funding, it is important to understand how funding is allocated in your NDIS plan and what services and supports this funding can be used for.

The MyCareSpace team are frequently asked the following questions related to SIL:

• Does SIL include accommodation?
• Does SIL include groceries and other day-to-day expenses?
• What happens to SIL if I am in hospital?
• Is staff training required for Acquired Brain Injury in the NDIS?
• Does SIL = shared supports?
• Will I receive SIL if I don’t need support all of the time?

This resource answers all of these questions to help you maximise your NDIS funding:

How to maximise your SIL funding with an Acquired Brain Injury

How do I find a SIL provider?

When SIL is approved in your plan, you will be provided with a sum of funding for SIL in your Core Support budget.

You are not automatically allocated to a provider, and have choice and control over which provider you engage with for SIL.

The SIL provider you select will assist in preparing a roster of care, utilising the funding allocated in your plan to cater to your needs across your week.

Need help finding a SIL provider? Get in touch with our Connections Team for assistance to nagivate the NDIS and find a SIL provider in your area.

Get In Touch

Find More Resources

MyCareSpace offers a range of resources across all topics involving the NDIS.

Review our Resource Library to learn more about how to make the most of your NDIS funding: MyCareSpace Resources

Need help Navigating the NDIS?

The MyCareSpace Connections Team can help you to navigate the NDIS and find NDIS supports that you need to achieve your goals.

Get Started

What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

To learn the basics of SIL, the following resource provides a fantastic overview of Supported Independent Living and Acquired Brain Injury

The Logistics of SIL

Whether you are applying for funding for SIL, or are already accessing SIL services, it is important to understand how SIL is funded in your NDIS plan and what is included and excluded when it comes to SIL support. 

There is often confusion about how SIL can be funded in your home or a home you share with others.

Where is SIL funded in my NDIS plan?

Across NDIS Plans, there is a new category called the Home and Living Supports (Category 16) which appears within the Core Support Budget. This budget is allocated for support for living options in line with your disability needs.

This funding can only be used flexibly within this category, and not across the remaining Core Support budget categories.

Within the Home and Living Supports budget, funding may be available in your NDIS plan for the following:

• Short-term accommodation (STA)
• Medium-term accommodation (MTA)
• Supported Independent Living (SIL)
• Independent Living Options (ILO)

SIL is considered a long-term living option, with the primary purpose of supporting you in your home to live alone or with others.

SIL funding includes at-home support or supervision to build skills in self-care, independence and maintaining a safe home for people with higher support needs.

Does SIL include accommodation?

SIL involves the funding for support provided to you in the home environment.

It does NOT include the home environment where you live.

This means SIL does not cover the cost of rent, board or lodging costs.

If you require disability-specific accommodation, you may be eligible for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). See further details here: What is SDA and SIL?

The NDIS do not generally provide funding for housing, except for SDA. If you do not meet the criteria for SDA eligibility, you will be required to cover the cost of your accommodation.

If you require affordable housing or are at risk of homelessness, there are state or territory government programs that can help you. Learn more about Housing and Community Infrastructure outlined by from the NDIS directly.

Does SIL include groceries and other day-to-day expenses?

SIL does not include day-to-day living costs that are not related to your disability support needs.

The cost of groceries are not included in SIL. This is a cost you are required to cover. If you live with others, you may arrange between yourselves to contribute towards shared groceries. In some SIL arrangements, the staff may assist by facilitating online orders and monitoring household supplies.

The cost of utilities such as gas, electricity, water, telephone, and internet bills are also not included in SIL. This is a personal expense for you to cover.

Expenses related to holidays, including travel costs, are also not funded by SIL.

What happens to SIL if I am in the hospital?

SIL is not responsible for providing you with personal support while you are admitted to the hospital.

The health system is responsible for meeting your support needs while you are under hospital care.

You will need to discuss ongoing payments for SIL with your SIL provider directly if you are not home to receive it.

It is important to review your service agreement to understand the provider’s policies about the payment for services when the participant is not present. Make sure you are comfortable with these terms before signing the agreement with your chosen provider.

Is staff training required for Acquired Brain Injury in the NDIS?

Undertaking training specific to acquired brain injury is not a requirement for service providers of SIL in the NDIS.

Some providers may be more familiar with supporting individuals with acquired brain injury than others.

Before engaging with a service provider, it is important for you to understand the staff’s experience working with people with acquired brain injury if you are after quality care that aligns with your needs.

Consider asking the following:

• Do you support any existing participants who have acquired brain injury? If yes, please describe the model of care, i.e. what does support in the home look like? How are supports shared? How are supports individualised?
• What assistive technology are your staff experienced with operating?
• Do your staff have any manual handling training? When was training last completed?
• Are they familiar with supporting any other medical conditions, such as epilepsy?

Receiving support from a provider who has the skills and capabilities is an important factor in maintaining your safety and ensuring your support needs will be met.

Does SIL = shared support?

SIL can be provided across a variety of settings. SIL can be individual or shared.

Individual Support (Living Alone)

SIL can be provided individually to you in your own home. This means the roster of care is built around you alone, and may include a combination of 1:1 (one support worker to one participant), or 2:1 (two support workers to one participant). The ratio of care across different routines and activities depends on your functional capacity and relevant support needs.

Shared Support (Living Alone)

SIL can be provided to you in a shared capacity while you live in your own home. This model of care is described as Concierge Support.

Concierge Support involves on-site support shared between several participants, however the support provided is not considered live-in support. Instead, an office is set up nearby the residences and is typically staffed 24/7. Drop in support is available to residents on a needs basis and/or for scheduled check-ins. Residents can contact the SIL Concierge Staff member at any time if they need one-off support during their day or evening i.e. support that is not part of their scheduled routine.

Shared Support (Living With Others)

SIL can also be provided in a shared living setting, where services are shared across two or more participants. It is not considered necessary for all participants to have an acquired brain injury. However, all participants in the home must have the same or similar support needs to ensure the support can be shared appropriately.

Will I receive SIL if I don’t need support all of the time?

If you do not need some level of support all of the time when you are at home, it is unlikely that you will be considered eligible for SIL finding.

There are other options available to you for your support needs to be met. This may be through Assistance with Daily Life in your Core Support Budget, where drop in support is available as you require it.

How do I choose a SIL provider?

When SIL is approved in your plan, you will be provided with a sum of funding for SIL in your Core Support budget.

You are not automatically allocated to a provider and have choice and control over which provider you engage with for SIL.

The SIL provider you select will assist in preparing a roster of care, utilising the funding allocated in your plan to cater to your needs across your week.

Need help finding a SIL provider? Get in touch with our Connections Team for assistance in navigating the NDIS and finding a SIL provider in your area.

Find A SIL Provider

Acquired Brain Injury and Supported Independent Living (SIL) 

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is the support or supervision of daily tasks by paid support workers to help you to live as independently as possible.

This support can be received individually in your own home, or by a group of people who live together.

SIL is typically funded if your diagnosis of acquired brain injury has a moderate to severe impact on your functional capacity.

SIL may be suitable for you if you require both:

• active disability support for more than 8 hours per day to complete daily activities in the home
• some level of support for the other hours

SIL is typically funded for those who require support 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, including overnight support.

Overnight support may be active, where more than two hours of direct assistance is provided. Inactive or sleepover support involves less than two hours of assistance provided to you.

Find out more about SIL here.

Acquired Brain Injury and Functional Capacity

The term “functional capacity” is thrown around a lot in the NDIS space. What does it mean?

Functional capacity is a snapshot of how independent you are, or how much support you require, to complete a particular task or activity that is meaningful in your life. How much difficulty you may have to complete a task, and how much time and effort is required, is also taken into consideration.

Your functional capacity to perform certain tasks may vary across different aspects of your daily routine. 

Your functional capacity may also be impacted by access (or lack of access) to assistive technology, or whether you live in an accessible environment or not.

How can SIL help me?

The support you receive through SIL relates directly to your support needs in the home.

SIL support must cater to your individual needs for the various activities that make up your day at home. You may require a higher intensity of support in the morning compared to the afternoon and overnight, for example.

SIL may include the following supports for people with an acquired brain injury:

• Assistance with personal care, like showering, dressing and toileting
• Assistance with household tasks such as cleaning, preparing meals, washing clothes and cleaning
• Active overnight and/or sleepover support
• Assistance with complex medical needs
• Positive behaviour support management
• Assisting with administering medication and management of health needs related to your disability, such as bowel care, catheter, epilepsy, asthma and tube feeding

Acquired Brain Injury and High Physical Support Needs in SIL

As acquired brain injury can result in a significant functional impairment, high support needs may be present.

This means that increased time and support is required to assist with performing activities of daily living.

High support needs usually means you require a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio of support for personal care tasks and other activities.

Ratio of Support

A ratio of support describes how many disability support workers will provide your support, and how many participants you’ll share this support with.

1:1 support means that you are receiving direct support from one support worker to assist you in engaging in an activity, i.e. grooming tasks.

2:1 support means that you are receiving direct support from two support workers to assist with an activity. An additional support worker is usually necessary to assist with operating assistive technology. This may be due to manual handling requirements to keep you and your staff safe.

Manual Handling

Manual handling is the term used to describe the physical assistance provided for transferring and repositioning. Every participant in SIL who receives manual handling assistance should have a Manual Handling Plan. This is to minimise the risk of injury involved when receiving care.

Safe manual handling may be necessary for someone with an acquired brain injury who is unable to move independently to transfer between surfaces, i.e. bed to chair, or to reposition i.e. when laying in bed.

Acquired Brain Injury and Assistive Technology in SIL

High physical support needs typically involve the use of assistive technology (AT). You may be able to operate some assistive technology devices yourself. 

Alternatively, you may require support from your SIL staff to operate assistive technology and assist with manual handling.

Common assistive equipment used by people with an acquired brain injury who have high support needs includes:

• Powered Wheelchair
• Mobile Hoist or ceiling hoist
• Sling
• Mobile shower commode
• Hi-lo adjustable bed
• Alternating air mattress
• Recliner Chair (with customisable features and high-pressure relief)

How do I find an NDIS SIL Provider?

When SIL is approved in your NDIS Plan, you are not automatically allocated to a provider. You have choice and control over the provider you engage with for SIL.

Need help finding a SIL provider?

Get in touch with the MyCareSpace Connections Team for assistance to find SIL services in your area and navigate the NDIS.

Get Started

Acquired Brain Injury - What is involved?

An injury to the brain may impact how you think, move, perform your daily routines and interact with others. This may result in requiring varying levels of support across your day-to-day life.

Acquired Brain Injury and High Physical Support Needs

In some cases, people with an acquired brain injury demonstrate high support needs due to the severe impact of their injury. High physical support needs involve a high level of person-to-person support and the use of assistive technology. 

Person-to-person support may involve one person or two people helping you with the various routines that make up your day, including showering, eating, drinking, toileting, etc.

These tasks typically involve manual handling, where you may require assistance to transfer or reposition. 

Manual handling involves the practice of safe movements and lifting to reduce the risk of injury to the participant and support workers involved. In this case, using assistive technology may be necessary. This is to keep you and your support workers or carers safe.

Due to cognitive impairment caused by your acquired brain injury, it may not be safe to operate assistive technology independently. In most cases, assistance is needed to operate devices to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

What Assistive Technology Will Help Participants with Acquired Brain Injury?

There is a wide range of assistive technology that can support NDIS Participants with acquired brain injury.

A common question our NDIS Navigators get is "What assistive technology can I use my NDIS funds for to help with acquired brain injury?"

We asked our resident OT to tell us what type of equipment she regularly prescribes to assist NDIS Participants with acquired brain injury.

Here are the main assistive technology solutions she mentioned:

• ​Mobility Devices such as a wheelchair
• Transfer Assistive Technology such as hoists and slings
• Bedroom Assistive Technology such as adjustable beds and pressure mattresses
• Bathroom Assistive Technology such as shower commodes and toilet equipment
• Living and Dining Assistive Technology such as seating and special trays
• Kitchen Assistive Technology such as tools to help you cut and prepare food

Mobility Devices to Support NDIS Participants with Acquired Brain Injury

Manual and Powered Wheelchairs

A manual wheelchair involves a seat and backrest attached to a frame with two large wheels with push-rims. Either the user self-propels the wheelchair, or it is attendant propelled via handlebars positioned at the rear of the backrest.

It can be difficult to accommodate seating and positioning needs for someone with a severe brain injury in a manual wheelchair.

A powered wheelchair involves a base with motorised wheels that are controlled by a joystick. Attached to the base include a cushion, backrest, armrests and any other postural supports required.

A powered wheelchair offers a high level of customisation for seating and postural supports. This is often necessary for individuals with an acquired brain injury with a significant impact on their functional capacity.

To operate a powered wheelchair, the joystick can be placed at the front of the armrests for the user to operate, or at the top of the backrest for carers to operate (or both). Carer operation may be necessary if the acquired brain injury has impacted your cognitive capacity.

Transfer Assistive Technology

Mobile Hoist

A mobile hoist is a device that is designed to lift and carry (transfer) you from one surface to another. This may be from your bed to your wheelchair, or from your wheelchair to shower commode.

It has a mobile base that can be wheeled from room to room, so long as there are no steps inside the home or other obstacles. Typically, two support workers or carers are required to operate a mobile hoist.

Ceiling Hoist

A ceiling hoist is a device attached to a frame that is built into your ceiling. It can transfer you between surfaces, and can sometimes travel between rooms. It is usually easier to handle compared to a mobile hoist and usually requires one or two support workers or carers to operate.

Sling

Both a mobile hoist and a ceiling hoist require the use of a sling that attaches to the hoist via straps. A large fabric sling supports your whole body when you are lifted between surfaces.

Slings can come in all different shapes and sizes, and be made of different materials and straps designed for a variety of hoists.

Standing Hoist

If you can weight-bear but require a bit of additional support to stand up, a standing hoist can help you with completing transfers i.e. standing from sitting at the edge of your bed, wheelchair, or recliner chair.

Various slings and straps are available to assist you in using your standing hoist. Typically, a standing hoist is operated by one support worker or carer.

Bedroom Assistive Technology

Hi-lo Adjustable Bed

Bedroom assistive technology involves a hi-lo adjustable bed.

An electronically powered hand remote is available to adjust the power features of the bed. 

The power features have various benefits, including:

• Raised back section - elevates the head and body for comfort, positioning, breathing, and eating.
• Lower limb elevation and knee break - supports the lower limb in an elevated position for comfort, pressure care management, management of swelling etc.
• Height adjustability - the bed can be lowered to assist you with standing transfers (if completed), or raise the bed to a height best suited for support workers or carers providing care to you in bed.

An adjustable bed is beneficial for someone with acquired brain injury who has difficulty adjusting and repositioning in bed.

Pressure Relieving Mattress

Various pressure relieving mattresses are necessary for individuals with acquired brain injury.

Pressure-relieving mattresses may be:

• Foam mattress - consisting of various layers of foam to immerse the body and distribute pressure
• Alternating air mattress - Air cells within a mattress that are inflated and deflated by an automated pump to redistribute pressure throughout the body for pressure care management
• Combination of foam and air mattress - a pump-free mattress that combines air cells and foam padding to achieve comfort and pressure care management

Bathroom Assistive Technology

Mobile Shower Commode

A mobile shower commode is a waterproof wheeled device that has a similar setup to a wheelchair. It may be helpful for you if you cannot stand to shower and/or require support for personal-care routines.

A mobile shower commode typically has an oval gap in the centre of the padded commode seat, similar to the inside of a toilet seat. This is beneficial as the commode can be wheeled over a toilet so that it can also be used for toileting.

A mobile shower commode requires an accessible bathroom. This involves level (flat) access to a shower recess which ideally does not contain glass screens or doors. The toilet seat needs to be low enough for the commode to wheel over.

Mobile shower commodes are more commonly required by people with acquired brain injury who require a hoist to complete transfers. This is because they may not be able to transfer on and off a standard toilet or shower chair. Additional positioning aids and supports can be attached to the commode.

Over Toilet Aid

An over toilet aid is a frame that can be positioned over your toilet to assist with sit to stand transfers. This is beneficial for people with acquired brain injury who can stand and walk, and need a little more support with transfers.

An over-toilet aid can promote your independence and reduce the need to rely on a support worker or carer to get on and off the toilet.

Shower Chair

In some cases, a shower chair may be the support you require in the shower if standing and balancing during your showering activity is difficult.

Shower chairs come in all shapes and sizes, including shower stools with or without backrests and armrests.

Living and Dining Assistive Technology

Living and dining supports can often be overlooked when mobility and transfer assistive technology are prioritised. For someone with an acquired brain injury and high physical support needs, a standard couch or armchair is unlikely to meet your needs and sitting upright and maintaining comfort will be a challenge.

In this case, a disability-specific recliner chair with additional positioning features is required, to provide an opportunity to sit somewhere else that isn’t your wheelchair or bed for relaxation, leisure and social engagement.

A tray table on wheels that is compatible with the recliner chair is beneficial for eating meals and performing activities.

Kitchen Assistive Technology

Meal preparation aids can be beneficial for individuals with acquired brain injury who may have difficulties engaging in the kitchen for meal preparation.

Some examples of kitchen and meal preparation aids include:

• Modified chopping board
• Spreader boards
• Modified knives and utensils (thicker or different handle designs)
• Easy open devices - one-touch bottle, jar and can openers
• Kettle tipper device
• Thermomix (in some cases if deemed appropriate following trial with an OT)

Summary

There is a wide range of assistive technology available, with only some of the useful daily living aids discussed above. To learn what is right for you, you may benefit from a Functional Capacity Assessment from an Occupational Therapist.

Find an Occupational Therapist

The MyCareSpace NDIS Navigators can connect you with support workers who have experience with acquired brain injury in your area.

Find a Support Worker 

Waiting for an OT?

With an increase in demand for Occupational Therapy, you may find yourself waiting months for your assessment and therapy. You may be spending more time on a waitlist than you’d like. Or you may not be able to access services at all in your area.

This can be discouraging when you are striving to use your NDIS funding to achieve your goals.

What if you were told you could work towards your NDIS goals while waiting for your OT to come on board?

To start this process, you must take a closer look at the goals in your NDIS plan and consider what other NDIS services and supports can be explored for you to achieve your goals.

It is important to keep in mind that one service, i.e. Physiotherapy, cannot replace another service, such as Occupational Therapy. However, an alternative service can address aspects of your goals to help you work towards building your capacity.

This can be viewed as supplementing your Occupational Therapy services while waiting for your superstar OT - win, win!

See below for examples of how different therapists and services can address various skills to contribute toward your goal attainment:

Key Worker Model

A key worker can be an allied health professional (therapist) who has specialist skills in working with children in an early intervention capacity. The idea is that you have one key worker for your child who delivers therapy across a range of disciplines under the guidance of a treating therapist. The key worker will also coordinate communication and information sharing between the therapists working with the child and the family.

Learn more about the Role of an NDIS Key Worker

Is telehealth an option for an Occupational Therapy assessment?

Telehealth involves online consultation, assessment and intervention with healthcare practitioners from the convenience of your home. 

A telehealth assessment can be completed in place of a face-to-face assessment in most cases. The assessment will involve detailed discussions with you and if needed, a family member and carer. It will also involve observations of you in your home environment and performing activities of daily living via video. This is where a laptop or portable device with a camera and microphone is necessary.

Some standardised assessments completed by therapists are designed to be administered via telehealth.

Learn More

To understand more about the different therapists working in the NDIS, review this resource: Decoding Allied Health - Finding the Therapist Right For Me

For a deeper understanding on the relationship between OT and Physio, review this resource: What is the Difference Between Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy in the NDIS?

How do I find a therapist to achieve my NDIS goals?

The MyCareSpace Connections Team are in touch with therapy providers across Australia. Connect with our team to find the right therapist for you today.

Find a Therapist

Welcome to the NDIS Cerebral Palsy Series

If you have found your way to this page, it means you are interested in learning more about cerebral palsy and navigating the NDIS.

Our MyCareSpace NDIS Navigators have prepared a series of resources that unpack the topics frequently searched by people with cerebral palsy and their families who want to better understand how to use their NDIS funding to achieve their goals.

Each topic has a different theme and provides you with additional links and resources to further your learning. Starting off with an overview of cerebral palsy and the NDIS...

Cerebral Palsy and the NDIS

The most recent insights from the NDIA show that 17,680 active participants in the NDIS have a primary disability of cerebral palsy. This makes up 3% of all NDIS participants and is increasing over time with more people accessing the Scheme. It is important to understand and know how to navigate the NDIS.

This topic provides an overview of the following:

• What is Cerebral Palsy
• Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis
• Are people with Cerebral Palsy eligible for NDIS funding?
• What kind of supports will the NDIS fund for Cerebral Palsy?

Learn all about NDIS eligibility and navigating NDIS supports:

Cerebral Palsy and the NDIS

Cerebral Palsy and Supported Independent Living (SIL) - Back to Basics

Navigating Supported Independent Living (SIL) in the NDIS can be difficult, particularly when you are still learning about your NDIS plan and how to best achieve your NDIS goals. A back-to-basics approach will help to build your understanding of SIL and how to make it work best for you.

This topic covers the following:

• Cerebral Palsy and Complex Needs
• Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual Disability & other Co-Occurring Conditions
• Cerebral Palsy, the NDIS & Supported Independent Living (SIL)
• Cerebral Palsy and Functional Capacity
• Cerebral Palsy and SIL - High Support Needs and Assistive Technology

Find out more about the supports available to you for SIL and what this could look like for you.

Cerebral Palsy and SIL - Back to Basics

Cerebral Palsy - Understanding Supported Independent Living (SIL) in your NDIS Plan

“What is funded by the NDIS in SIL, and what do I have to pay myself?”. This is a question the MyCareSpace Connections Team regularly receives when speaking with NDIS participants and families.

There can often be confusion about what your NDIS funding does and does not cover when it comes to SIL.

Understand how SIL works in your plan by learning about the following:

• The Logistics of SIL
• Where is SIL funded in my NDIS plan?
• Does SIL include accommodation, groceries and other day-to-day expenses?
• What happens to SIL if I am in hospital?
• Is staff training required for Cerebral Palsy in the NDIS?
• Does SIL = shared supports?
• Will I receive SIL if I don’t need support all of the time?

Find out more about SIL and your NDIS plan:

Cerebral Palsy - Understanding SIL in your NDIS Plan

How to get funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL) with Cerebral Palsy

So you now know how SIL is funded in your NDIS plan, but how do you get approved for funding for SIL?

Find out more about getting funding in your NDIS plan for SIL:

• Cerebral Palsy and Support Needs
• Supported Independent Living (SIL) Eligibility
• Is SIL Reasonable and Necessary?
• What do the NDIS consider when approving funding for Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
• What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
• How does a Functional Capacity Assessment for SIL differ to a standard Functional Capacity Assessment?
• How can I get a Functional Capacity Assessment for Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
• Submitting evidence to the NDIS for Supported Independent Living (SIL) - Home & Living Request

How to get SIL in your plan? Read here:

SIL Funding for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy and Assistive Technology (NDIS)

If you are navigating SIL in the NDIS, there is a possibility you also require assistive technology to assist you with mobility and your activities of daily living. There is a wide range of assistive technology available for individuals with cerebral palsy to use.

Find out more about the following assistive technology solutions:

• Mobility Devices
• Transfer Assistive Technology
• Bedroom Assistive Technology
• Bathroom Assistive Technology
• Living and Dining Assistive Technology
• Kitchen Assistive Technology
• Communication Assistive Technology
• Hearing Devices
• Assistive Technology for Children during Early Intervention

Exploring assistive technology solutions? Find out more here:

Cerebral Palsy and Assistive Technology (NDIS)

Find More Resources

MyCareSpace offers a range of resources across all topics involving the NDIS.

Review our Resource Library to learn more about how to make the most of your NDIS funding:

MyCareSpace Resources

Need help Navigating the NDIS?

The MyCareSpace Connections Team can help you to navigate the NDIS and find NDIS supports that you need to achieve your goals:

Get Started

What is telehealth?

Telehealth involves online consultation, assessment and intervention with healthcare practitioners from the convenience of your home. 

Telehealth enables you to stay connected when in-person sessions are not feasible or practical, for some or all of the time. 

Telehealth allows for continuity of care between you and your health professionals.

Telehealth is also described as telepractice, online therapy or remote therapy.

In the NDIS, you can work with a therapist or allied health provider if they offer a telehealth service that can meet your needs. 

Allied health providers set up with telehealth can complete most assessments and provide capacity-building therapy online.

Telehealth is typically most effective when completed via video call. However, telehealth over the phone can also be explored.

Telehealth Assessment

An assessment is completed by an allied health provider when they first meet you to learn about your disability and the impact this has on day-to-day life.

A telehealth assessment can be completed in place of a face-to-face assessment in most cases. The assessment will involve detailed discussions with you and if needed, a family member and carer. It will also involve observations of you in your home environment and performing activities of daily living. This is where a laptop or portable device with a camera and microphone is helpful.

Some standardised assessments completed by therapists are designed to be administered via telehealth.

Telehealth for Online Therapy

Therapy sessions completed online to achieve your goals can be very effective with the right set-up and support. 

Depending on the goal you are working towards, your therapist may send you resources prior to the session to access online or print. 

Alternatively, you may require assistive technology or devices to engage in telehealth sessions. 

You may require assistance from a parent or caregiver under the guidance of the therapist. 

Your therapist will provide you guidance on the best way to engage in telehealth.

Their approach to therapy will consider the following:

• The goals you are working towards
• The method of delivery of telehealth therapy
• The availability of support to you for therapy sessions i.e. family members or carers
• Any constraints that must be overcome to deliver a quality service

Which allied health providers offer telehealth?

Telehealth can be offered by the following therapists or services:

• Occupational Therapist
• Physiotherapist
• Speech Pathologist
• Psychologist
• Positive Behaviour Support
• Exercise Physiologist
• Dietitian
• School Leaver Employment Support
• Employment-related Assessment and Counselling

Not all therapists offer telehealth, so keep this in mind when exploring services if this is your preferred method.

Telehealth over face-to-face therapy?

There are many benefits to accessing telehealth services over face-to-face, as outlined below.

Access services outside of my local area

There are incredible therapists all across the country working in the NDIS. Telehealth allows you access to therapists that service outside of your local area or state. As the NDIS is a national scheme with service providers operating nationally, you are not restricted to your state for services and support. Telehealth broadens the services available to you to find the right therapist for you.

Reduce time waiting for an in-person therapist

Get started with therapy sooner! As there are many telehealth therapists to choose from, you are less likely to be waiting around for a face-to-face visit, as there is often a long waitlist. 
Telehealth providers typically have much earlier capacity than face-to-face providers. Take advantage of this benefit and give telehealth a go.

Maximise funding in your NDIS plan

The hourly rate charged by the therapist does not change between telehealth and in-person therapy. However, you will save your NDIS funding by not paying for costs associated with a therapist travelling to visit your home for therapy. The costs saved by eliminating travel fees can translate to additional therapy sessions. Money win!

Helps parents and carers with therapy outside of therapy sessions

In therapy, there are usually activities recommended to be completed outside of the session. This is where the real capacity building happens. Telehealth can allow for a parent or carer to observe some or all of the session. This is beneficial as:

• The parent or carer can observe how the therapist interacts with the participant and then can mirror this in practice sessions
• The parent or carer can observe the desired outcome of the participant when engaging with the therapist
• The therapist and parent or carer can discuss therapy interventions as they occur during the session, rather than completing a separate handover session which takes up funding and time.

Lowers the risk of infection and illness

Engaging in therapy online means that you are not regularly visiting a clinic or centre also visited by other participants. You also won’t have a therapist regularly coming in and out of your home. This helps to lower the risk of catching a virus and becoming unwell.

Greater Flexibility - Make it work for you!

Access your therapy sessions at a time in the week that suits YOU. Forget about time wasted sitting in traffic and in the waiting room. Your therapy needs to make the most sense for you and your lifestyle.

Is telehealth effective?

Research evidence tells us that telehealth can be just as effective as in-person appointments in achieving your goals.

Consider if you would prefer to wait for in-person services, or not receive them at all due to a lack of local service providers with capacity.

On the other hand, you can get started with telehealth and start achieving your goals today.

How long does telehealth go for?

A telehealth assessment can take anywhere between 1-2 hours and may require multiple appointments to gather the information required.

The duration of telehealth sessions is determined by the therapist based on what will be most effective for you. Most therapists understand that a full hour of screen time for therapy may be a bit much for some people, so shorter and more frequent sessions can be offered instead.

You will continue with telehealth sessions until you achieve your capacity-building goals. A good therapist will check in regularly to ensure the online arrangements work well for you and your supports.

What do I need to access telehealth?

To maximise your engagement in telehealth, you will require the following:

• Computer, laptop or tablet
• Webcam (this may build into the front screen of a laptop or can be plugged in externally)
• Microphone
• Speaker (usually built into your device)
• If using a tablet, set this up ahead of the session so you have your hands free. A stand may be helpful.
• Internet connection
• A quiet space for your privacy

The telehealth provider will guide you on any software or download requirements to access their videocall platform. TIP: Test your equipment and set up ahead of your telehealth session to avoid any delays getting into your session.

Depending on the assessment or intervention, input from a support worker or family member may be necessary.

It is helpful if you provide your therapist with copies of reports or any documents related to your disability prior to the telehealth assessment. They can review these documents to develop an understanding of your needs prior to meeting with you. Such a win!

Can all allied health services be provided by telehealth?

While telehealth can be effective for most allied health services, there are instances where telehealth is not the most appropriate intervention method due to in-person requirements. 

For example, the following interventions require in-person support from an Occupational Therapist:

• Complex assistive technology prescription, such a powered wheelchair
• Prescribing assistive technology that addresses postures and pressure care management
• Some minor and all complex home modification assessments
• Driving assessments

Other therapists, such as Physios and Speech Pathologists, for example, may have areas that require in-person input. Speak with your therapist about these requirements. Perhaps a combination of in-person appointments and telehealth may help you to achieve your goals.

Connect with a Telehealth Therapy Provider

Our Connections Team at MyCareSpace are linked in with a range of providers offering telehealth services with availability. Let our team help you navigate the NDIS and find the right service for you.
 

Get started with telehealth
 

Cerebral palsy is a physical disability that affects movement across different parts of the body. This is due to damage to the brain, occurring either during pregnancy, at birth, or shortly after birth.

As cerebral palsy is a physical disability, it can impact posture, walking (gait), muscle tone, and coordination of movement.

Cerebral palsy impacts each individual differently. Some people with cerebral palsy can walk and move around independently. Others may require the use of a wheelchair to mobilise.

What Assistive Technology Will Help Participants with Cerebral Palsy?

There is a wide range of assistive technology that can support NDIS Participants with cerebral palsy.

A common question our NDIS Navigators get is "What assistive technology can I use my NDIS funds to help with Cerebral Palsy?"

We asked our resident OT to tell us what type of equipment she regularly prescribes to assist NDIS Participants with Cerebral Palsy.

Here are the main types of Assistive Technology she mentioned:

• Mobility Devices like wheelchairs, orthotics and walking aids
• Transfer Assistive Technology like hoists and slings
• Bedroom Assistive Technology like adjustable beds and pressure mattresses
• Bathroom Assistive Technology like shower commodes and toilet equipment
• Living and Dining Assistive Technology like seating and special trays
• Kitchen Assistive Technology like tools to help you cut and prepare food
• Communication Assistive Technology like picture boards and electronic communication devices
• Typing and Writing Assistive Technology like modified keyboards/mice, pencil grips, and wrist supports
• Hearing Devices like hearing aids, Bluetooth devices, and the cochlear implant.
• Therapy Assistive Technology like seating/standing systems, and gait trainers
• Assistive Technology for Children during Early Intervention

Mobility Devices & Assistive Technology to Support NDIS Participants with Cerebral Palsy

Manual Wheelchairs

Cerebral palsy can, in some cases, impact the lower limbs only. This is known as spastic diplegia or diparesis, where muscle stiffness is mainly in present the legs, with the arms less affected or not affected at all. In this scenario, a manual wheelchair is a great mobility solution.

Manual wheelchairs are lightweight and easily transportable. Manual wheelchairs can be used on their own, or with a power assist device.

Manual Wheelchair with a Power Assist Device

A power assist device can be added to a manual wheelchair to convert the manual propulsion of the wheels to power-assisted drive. Power assist devices are designed to enhance mobility by reducing the risk of overuse injury to the upper limb and lowering the onset of fatigue.

There are a variety of power assist devices available that are compatible with different types of manual wheelchairs.

Powered Wheelchair

A powered wheelchair is appropriate when a manual wheelchair cannot be self-propelled and a more supportive and robust solution is required.

A powered wheelchair involves a base with motorised wheels that are controlled by a joystick. The joystick can be placed at the front of an armrest for the user to operate, or at the top of the backrest for carers to operate. Or both! 

A seat cushion, backrest and other seating and positioning aids are set up on top of the base to support the user to maintain their posture. Specialised seating and positioning aids may be necessary when cerebral palsy has resulted in postural changes and contractures that require additional support.

Ankle Foot Orthosis

An Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a brace worn to support one or both ankles which may be weak due to cerebral palsy. AFO’s are to help with ankle and lower leg alignment and stability.

Depending on your needs, an AFO may be hinged (made to bend at the ankle) or solid (no movement at the ankle). AFO’s can be worn underneath and inside your shoe to assist with walking.

Walking Aid - Walking Stick or Four Wheeled Walker

Walking aids, such as walking sticks, four-wheeled walkers, forearm support frames etc, are mobility devices are helpful for people with cerebral palsy who can stand and walk with varying difficulties and therefore may need a bit of extra support for some or all of the time.

There are various types of walking sticks, walking frames and walkers available, depending on your mobility needs.

Transfer Assistive Technology

Mobile Hoist

A mobile hoist is a device that is designed to lift and carry (transfer) you from one surface to another. This may be from your bed to your wheelchair, or from your wheelchair to shower commode.

It has a mobile base that can be wheeled from room to room, so long as there are no steps inside the home or other obstacles. Typically, two support workers or carers are required to operate a mobile hoist.

Ceiling Hoist

A ceiling hoist is a device attached to a frame that is built into your ceiling. It can transfer you between surfaces, and can sometimes travel between rooms. It is usually easier to handle compared to a mobile hoist and usually requires one or two support workers or carers to operate.

Sling

Both a mobile hoist and a ceiling hoist require the use of a sling that attaches to the hoist via straps. A large fabric sling supports your whole body when you are lifted between surfaces. Slings can come in all different shapes and sizes, and be made of different materials and straps designed for a variety of hoists.

Standing Hoist

If you can weight-bear, but require a bit of additional support to stand up, a standing hoist can help you with completing transfers i.e. standing from sitting at the edge of your bed, wheelchair, or recliner chair.

Various slings and straps are available to assist you in using your standing hoist. Typically, a standing hoist is operated by one support worker or carer.

Bedroom Assistive Technology

Hi-lo Adjustable Bed

Bedroom assistive technology involves a hi-lo adjustable bed. An electronically powered hand remote is available to adjust the power features of the bed. 

The power features have various benefits, including:

• Raised back section - elevates the head and body for comfort, positioning, breathing, and eating.
• Lower limb elevation and knee break - supports the lower limb in an elevated position for comfort, pressure care management, management of swelling etc.
• Height adjustability - the bed can be lowered to assist you with standing transfers (if completed), or raise the bed to a height best suited for support workers or carers providing care to you in bed.

An adjustable bed is beneficial for someone with cerebral palsy who has difficulty adjusting and repositioning in bed.

Pressure Relieving Mattress

Various pressure relieving mattresses are necessary for individuals with cerebral palsy.

Pressure-relieving mattresses may be:

• Foam mattress - consisting of various layers of foam to immerse the body and distribute pressure
• Alternating air mattress - Air cells within a mattress that are inflated and deflated by an automated pump to redistribute pressure throughout the body for pressure care management
• Combination of foam and air mattress - a pump-free mattress that combines air cells and foam padding to achieve comfort and pressure care management

Bed Positioning Aids/Sleep Systems

In some cases, additional cushions and support pads are required to support someone with cerebral palsy to sleep and rest in bed.

Their purpose is to provide support that may be necessary for spine and hip alignment, and support contractures resulting from spasticity. This aims to improve comfort and support fixed postures.

Bathroom Assistive Technology

Mobile Shower Commode

A mobile shower commode is a waterproof wheeled device that has a similar setup to a wheelchair. It may be helpful for you if you cannot stand to shower and/or require support for personal-care routines.

A mobile shower commode typically has an oval gap in the centre of the padded commode seat, similar to the inside of a toilet seat. This is beneficial as the commode can be wheeled over a toilet so that it can also be used for toileting.

When a support worker or carer is required, the commode has four smaller wheels, with two small wheels at the front and two small wheels at the back. A commode with two small front wheels and two large rear wheels is beneficial for you if you have the capacity to self-propel your commode to engage in toileting and showering routine independently.

A mobile shower commode requires an accessible bathroom. This involves level (flat) access into a shower recess which ideally does not contain glass screens or doors. The toilet seat needs to be low enough for the commode to wheel over.

Mobile shower commodes are more commonly required by people with cerebral palsy who require a hoist to complete transfers. This is because they may not be able to transfer on and off a standard toilet or shower chair. Additional positioning aids and supports can be attached to the commode.

Over Toilet Aid

An over toilet aid is a frame that can be positioned over your toilet to assist with sit-to-stand transfers. This is beneficial for people with cerebral palsy who can stand and walk, and need a little more support with transfers.

An over-toilet aid can promote your independence and reduce the need to rely on a support worker or carer to get on and off the toilet.

Shower Chair

In some cases, a shower chair may be the support you require in the shower if standing and balancing during your showering activity is difficult. Shower chairs come in all shapes and sizes, including shower stools with or without backrests and armrests.

Living and Dining Assistive Technology

Living and dining supports can often be overlooked when mobility and transfer assistive technology are prioritised. For someone with cerebral palsy and high physical support needs, a standard couch or armchair is unlikely to meet your needs and sitting upright and maintaining comfort will be a challenge.

In this case, a disability-specific recliner chair with additional positioning features is required, to provide an opportunity to sit somewhere else that isn’t your wheelchair or bed for relaxation, leisure and social engagement.

A tray table on wheels or a tray that attaches to the recliner chair is beneficial for eating meals and performing activities.

Kitchen Assistive Technology

Meal preparation aids can be used in the kitchen. This is beneficial for individuals with cerebral palsy that can engage in the kitchen for meal preparation, however due to reduced finger and hand strength and dexterity, may have difficulties completing some kitchen tasks.

Some examples of kitchen and meal preparation aids include:

• Modified chopping board
• Spreader boards
• Modified knives and utensils (thicker or different handle designs)
• Easy open devices - one-touch bottle, jar and can openers
• Kettle tipper device
• Thermomix (in some cases if deemed appropriate following trial with an OT)

Communication Assistive Technology

Communication difficulties may be experienced by someone with cerebral palsy due to muscle spasms in the throat, mouth, and tongue. This can impact word formation.

With limitations in the ability to communicate, it can be challenging and frustrating to express wants, needs, and emotions.

There are a wide variety of communication aids available, ranging from low-technology solutions to high-technology solutions.

Low Technology Communication Aids:

• Picture exchange
• Symbol boards
• Printed word board with common phrases
• Communication books
• Sign language

High Technology Communication Aids:

• Electronic communication boards
• Software vocabularies with voices
• Eye-tracking devices

Difficulties with typing and writing may also be necessary if impaired hand function is experienced.

Typing and Writing Aids

Typing Aids

Typing aids may involve a modified keyboard and mouse. This is to accommodate people with limitations in upper limb skills.

There is also talk-to-type software available which may be beneficial for you if your speech is not impacted but your physical capacity to access computer controls and accessories is limited.

Writing Aids

Adaptive writing aids and tools are beneficial, particularly for children, who may have difficulties with grasping a pencil or pen or managing writing tasks on a level desk.

Writing aids may include:

• Specialist pencil grips and writing claws
• Handcuffs or cuffs
• Wrist supports
• Slanted writing board

Hearing Devices

Hearing loss is prevalent among people diagnosed with cerebral palsy. There are various hearing devices available, including hearing aids, Bluetooth devices, and the cochlear implant.

The Hearing Services Program, funded by the Australian Government, provides partially and fully subsidised hearing device options. The NDIS funds hearing support for NDIS participants aged 26 and over who are not eligible for the HSP.

The NDIS also funds additional reasonable and necessary hearing support for participants if they are not available through the HSP. This includes people under 26.

Assistive Technology for Physiotherapy

Assistive technology can play a large role in physiotherapy and capacity building, particularly in the early intervention stages of your NDIS journey.

Physiotherapy is the most common therapy and there are many devices to help support you during your Cerebral Palsy physio sessions.

Assistive technology and adaptive equipment for physiotherapy can include:

• seating systems
• standing frames
• gait trainers
• electronic gaming devices, such as Mouseware

There is a wide range of assistive technology available. To learn what is right for you, you may benefit from a Functional Capacity Assessment from an Occupational Therapist.

The MyCareSpace NDIS Navigators can help you navigate the NDIS and find you a Physiotherapist with availability in your area.

Find a Physiotherapist 

Cerebral Palsy and High Physical Support Needs

High physical support needs involve a high level of person-to-person support and the use of assistive technology.

Person-to-person support may involve one person or two people assisting you with the various routines that make up your day, including showering, eating, drinking, toileting, etc. These tasks have a manual handling component, where you may require assistance to transfer or reposition.

Manual handling involves the practice of safe movements and lifting to reduce the risk of injury to the participant and support workers involved. In this case, using assistive technology may be necessary. This is to keep you and your support workers or carers safe.

In some cases, you may be able to operate assistive technology devices yourself, such as a powered wheelchair. Alternatively, you may require support to operate the assistive technology you require. 

The MyCareSpace NDIS Navigators can connect you with Support Workers who have experience with CP in your area.

Find a Support Worker