Caring for a loved one with a disability has its rewards and challenges. However, caregivers also need breaks to recharge, and individuals with disabilities deserve enriching experiences in a supportive environment. This is where NDIS respite care and short-term accommodation (STA) come into play.
This guide will explore these two support options, highlighting their benefits, and how they can be accessed.
Respite care is a specific type of support that falls under the broader category of Short Term Accommodation. It is mainly opted when a primary caregiver is temporarily unavailable, allowing the participant to receive care from a professional or an alternative caregiver. Respite support can be as short as a few hours or extend to overnight stays, depending on the needs of the participant and their family.
The main purpose of NDIS respite care is to provide participants with a safe and supportive environment while giving their caregivers time to rest and recharge. This could be through in-home care, community-based programs, or a short stay in an accommodation facility.
Note: While informal care from friends or family can sometimes act as respite, only formal services funded under the NDIS are considered official respite care options.
Short Term Accommodation is a more comprehensive form of temporary care that includes respite services. It provides participants with a temporary living arrangement away from their usual home, ensuring they continue to receive the necessary support. STA is designed to help individuals experience a change of environment while still accessing essential care services.
Taking a break from routine living arrangements can be beneficial, especially for those who primarily rely on family or informal caregivers. STA allows participants to develop independence, engage in new activities, and build social connections. Typically, short term accommodation covers a stay of up to 14 days at a time, with a total limit of 28 days per year under the NDIS.
STA funding under the NDIS includes all essential aspects of daily living. This ensures that participants receive the same level of care they would typically receive at home. STA funding generally covers:
The NDIS considers funding STA if it meets the “reasonable and necessary” criteria. This means that the funding should contribute to long-term benefits such as improving the participant’s independence, enhancing their functional capacity, and allowing informal caregivers to continue providing support for an extended period.
One of the primary benefits of NDIS respite care and STA is that it allows caregivers to take time off while ensuring that participants receive uninterrupted care. Caregiving is a full-time commitment, and without breaks, it can lead to exhaustion and burnout. Respite services provide an essential balance, helping caregivers recharge and continue offering high-quality support.
For participants, STA and respite care offer a change of scenery and new experiences. Many providers incorporate skill-building activities, social outings, and group interactions into their programs. This not only helps individuals gain independence but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community.
Additionally, STA can serve as a stepping stone for those transitioning to Supported Independent Living (SIL). A short stay in a supervised accommodation facility allows participants to adjust to a new environment while still receiving support, making future independent living arrangements smoother.
To access NDIS respite care or STA, participants must have funding allocated under the “Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life” category of their NDIS plan.
Note: If STA is not explicitly stated in the plan, it is still possible to use core funding for these services, as the Core Supports budget is one of the most flexible funding categories within the NDIS.
However, formal documentation may be required to secure STA-specific funding. This could include:
The flexibility of STA funding allows participants to choose from different accommodation providers. Since STA can be costly, it is important to plan strategically to ensure that funding is utilised efficiently. To get the most out of your NDIS funding, you can plan your stays during off-peak times, consider shared accommodation options, and carefully compare prices from different providers.
Selecting the right STA provider is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and beneficial experience. Several factors should be taken into account when making a decision.
First, it is essential to determine whether the provider offers the right level of care. Some participants may require specialised support, and not all STA services cater to every individual’s unique needs. Checking whether the provider can accommodate specific medical, dietary, or mobility requirements is an important step.
The accommodation setting itself is also important. Some short term accommodation services offer a homely, small-scale environment, while others provide larger facilities with group activities. Participants should choose an environment that aligns with their comfort level and social preferences.
Cost is another significant consideration. STA prices vary based on location, duration, and whether the stay occurs on a weekday, weekend, or public holiday. Additionally, individuals accessing STA in remote areas may incur additional costs. It’s always advisable to check whether providers operate within the NDIS Price Arrangements and Price Limits to avoid unexpected costs.
For those opting for group STA stays, it’s beneficial to inquire about the group dynamics. Understanding who the participant will be sharing accommodation with and what group activities are available can help create a more enjoyable experience.
Need NDIS-funded short-term stays? Dayaram Care provides tailored support, from short overnight breaks to more structured STA arrangements. We focus on meeting your unique needs with personalised care, engaging activities, and flexible accommodation options.
Contact us today to discuss your unique needs and find the perfect care solution.