How to Get Help with a Disability: Navigating Options with CareMatch
Finding the right support for a disability can be an overwhelming process. Knowing where to start, and understanding what options are available, is daunting at best. So, we’re hoping to make this journey as simple as possible, helping you (or a loved one) to identify and secure the care you need. Our goal is to support you in living life to the fullest with our expertise and commitment to personalised care.
Accessing disability support services and funding
If you’re just beginning, a great first step is to explore funding options. Managing a disability often comes with unique challenges, and in Australia, there are two primary types of funding available to support essential needs and enhance quality of life: the Disability Support Pension (DSP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Though both provide crucial assistance, each is designed to address different needs.
The Disability Support Pension (DSP), managed by Services Australia, offers financial support for Australians with a permanent physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disability that limits their ability to work. This income supplement helps cover everyday living expenses for those who qualify.
On the other hand, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding specifically for services and supports, such as therapy, personal care, and employment assistance, to enhance independence and community involvement. Unlike the DSP, which serves as a financial benefit, the NDIS funds a variety of resources that enable participants to build skills and achieve greater autonomy in their daily lives.
For a summarised look at funding options, visit our disability funding guide.
Navigating support options
When it comes to locking in your disability support, there are a few options available at CareMatch, each designed to fit specific needs and scenarios. Here are the ways in which we can help you with the support you need:
- NDIS and Disability Support: As outlined above, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers a pathway to care for Australians with a permanent and significant disability. We can help guide you through understanding your NDIS options, and once you’re a registered participant, we can connect you with our carers who meet your unique needs.
- Nursing Supports:For clients who require specialised nursing care, we provide direct access to nursing professionals who can integrate seamlessly into your care plan. With nursing supports, clients receive focused attention, highly skilled care, and tailored support to address complex health needs as part of their daily routine.
- Onsite Shared Support (OSS): For those with high-level care needs and 24/7 on-call support, our OSS service offers a shared approach to care where clients can engage with others while still receiving the care they need. This model, currently offered for residents at Accessible Homes Australia’s East Palm Beach building, encourages social interaction, independence, and a sense of camaraderie.
Discover more information about disability support services.
How to start your journey with CareMatch
Beginning your care journey with CareMatch is easy. Here’s how we support you every step of the way:
- Assessing your needs: Our team will help you assess your care needs through an initial consultation, ensuring you understand what support options are available and which might best suit your lifestyle and health requirements.
- Booking a consultation: We are here to listen to your unique situation, answer your questions, and guide you in making an informed decision about your care.
- Matching with the right carer: Finding the right fit is crucial. We carefully match clients with carers based on skills, experience, and personality to ensure a supportive, compatible, and comfortable relationship.
Tips for you and your family when searching for care
A few quick tips to support you in this journey include open communication, asking questions about care plans, and ensuring that you or your loved one’s needs and preferences are front and centre. For a deeper dive, check out our step-by-step guide to choosing the right carer, including:
- Define needs and preferences
- Research local care providers
- Check credentials and qualifications
- Assess experience and specialties
- Evaluate reviews and testimonials
- Meet in person, online or over the phone
- Assess compatibility
- Discuss costs and payment options
- Review contract terms and agreements
- Seek input from the person receiving care (if acting on behalf of a loved one)
From funding guidance to exploring support options and getting started, we hope this guide simplifies your journey to finding the right disability care.
At CareMatch, we believe disability care should empower you to live with independence, confidence, and dignity. Whether you’re seeking NDIS and disability supports, specialised nursing, or other personalised services, our approach is tailored to fit your unique needs. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate care that prioritises your quality of life. To learn more about our commitment to empowering lives through personalised support, discover our approach to care here.