An early onset dementia diagnosis can be extremely confronting for you and your loved ones, but there is help available. NDIS support services help to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia, and we aim to explain the link between early onset dementia and the NDIS in more detail.
What is early onset dementia?
Early onset dementia typically refers to a type of dementia that is diagnosed in people under the age of 65. People in their 40s and 50s can also be diagnosed with symptoms of dementia, presenting a different set of challenges than those experienced by older people. When someone is diagnosed with early onset dementia, it can affect their ability to work, earn an income and raise a family.
Although everybody experiences dementia differently, the symptoms are quite similar regardless of your age. Common signs are memory loss, difficulty concentrating, personality changes and problems with personal care and daily tasks. As dementia progresses, these symptoms are likely to become more pronounced, and an individual’s care needs will change over time.
What is the NDIS?
As a person’s support requirements change, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is there to help. The NDIS is a government initiative that provides a range of support services and funding to those with significant disabilities. Early onset dementia is included, meaning there is always support available for those in need.
NDIS funding is typically provided for specific needs, such as 24/7 personal care services, Supported Independent Living, respite services, assistive technology, home modifications, community participation and much more. The goal of the NDIS is to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia, helping them achieve their goals and live as independently as possible for as long as possible.
What support services does the NDIS provide?
The NDIS offers a comprehensive range of services that can be tailored to individual needs. Accessing funding through the NDIS can be a daunting proposition, but the experienced Funding Team at Group Homes Australia can help you maximise funding and get the right support.
Some of the common services provided by the NDIS include:
- Personal care: Assistance with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and meal preparation.
- Respite care: Short-stay respite services offer people living with dementia and their families a chance to take a break and plan ahead.
- Therapeutic support: Access to support such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other interventions to manage early onset dementia symptoms and improve cognitive function.
- Assistive technology: Equipment and technology that helps with mobility, communication and other daily tasks.
- Community participation: NDIS funding is available to support community involvement.
- Home modifications: Funding for household modifications that improve safety, accessibility and comfort.
Eligibility criteria for early onset dementia support
There are certain requirements to be eligible for NDIS funding, especially for those living with early onset dementia. There are three key criteria that must be satisfied:
- Age: Must be under the age of 65.
- Residency: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
- Disability: Applicants must have medical evidence of their early onset dementia diagnosis and recommendations for the types of support required.
It’s important to include as much information as possible with your application, particularly medical records as the NDIS uses these to determine the level of funding and types of support you’re eligible for.
In some cases, the NDIS may determine that more funding is required in the early stages following diagnosis, as it may reduce a person’s need for future support.
Improve your quality of life with NDIS dementia support
Group Homes Australia offers a range of support services for people living with dementia. Unlike traditional aged care services, Group Homes Australia provides tailored assistance to individuals of all ages. You may not require permanent care yet, but we also offer short-stay Flexible Respite and a whole host of resources to make your journey easier. We’re also NDIS plan managers, so we can help to manage your NDIS funding and live life on your terms. If you’d like to discuss your NDIS dementia needs, contact our friendly and supportive team today.
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