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Programs for managing continence
One in five Australians experience some difficulty with their bladder or bowel control. Incontinence can make you feel embarrassed and socially isolated. It can affect the quality of life, work and social activities of women and men of all ages and backgrounds. But it can also be prevented, treated, managed and often cured.
- Continence Aids Assistance Scheme (CAAS) (more information)
- Who is eligible?
- Carer support groups
- Getting financial help
- Subsidy schemes
- Short-term care
Continence Aids Assistance Scheme (CAAS)
The Continence Aids Assistance Scheme (CAAS) is an Australian Government program that assists eligible people who have permanent and severe incontinence to meet the cost of continence products. CAAS is administered on behalf of the Australian Government by Intouch, the commercial arm of the Spinal Injuries Association Incorporated. CAAS clients receive a subsidy of up to $470 per year on continence products ordered through Intouch.
Currently, applicants for CAAS must be between 16 and 64 years of age, with a neurological cause for their incontinence. From 1 July 2007, eligibility will be expanded to include people aged five to 15 years and 65 and over. In addition, people who hold a Pensioner Concession Card and who have a non-neurological cause for their incontinence, such as autism, cancer, prostate disease or dementia will also be able to access CAAS from 1 July 2007.
Who is eligible?
You are eligible for CAAS:
- if you have permanent loss of bladder and/or bowel function due directly to a permanent neurological condition (such as paraplegia, quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease) or a permanent and severe intellectual impairment, and
- you are working in paid employment at least eight hours per week
- you are eligible for the Disability Support Pension (regardless of the pension that
- you are actually receiving), or
- you are eligible for Mobility Allowance or receive the equivalent sales tax or GST exemption on a vehicle.
Carer support groups
Carer support groups provide emotional support to carers and are sometimes organised around specific conditions. The Carer Information Service can provide information about these groups in your area and refer you to other organisations like the Alzheimer’s Association or Multiple Sclerosis Society, which also offer support.
Contact the Carer Information Service on 1800 242 636
Getting financial help
Many people with incontinence have other health problems and are often pensioners or have limited incomes.
To find out if you are eligible for financial assistance, contact:
- the Continence Aids Assistance Scheme on 1300 366 455
- a Centrelink office
- the Carer Information Service on 1800 242 636
- the Department of Veterans’ Affairs on 13 32 54
- a financial adviser
- your doctor, or
- any health professional associated with your care.
Subsidy schemes
Different schemes are available in each state and territory to help you buy continence aids and appliances. Each scheme has its own rules for eligibility and a financial limit on the amount of supplies provided. When you contact the National Continence Helpline you can ask about:
- which schemes are available in your state or territory
- the eligibility criteria
- how much you will receive to spend on continence products, and
- what you are entitled to buy with the subsidy.
There is no GST on most incontinence products, but there is GST on the delivery fee. Medical suppliers will deliver for a fee. Contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 or the Carer Information Service on 1800 242 636.
Short-term care
Commonwealth Carer Respite Centres (more information) can organise either short term or emergency respite services so that your carer can take a break. This can take place in your home or in a facility.
Contact the Carer Respite Centre on 1800 059 059.
Read more: About Commonwealth Carer Respite Centres
Common questions on this topic:
- Is incontinence more common in women or men?
- Where can I get continence management equipment free or cheap?
- Who should I call about continence management?
See all common questions
