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Older people with disabilities
Most older people value being able to live in their own home, but if you’re living with a disability you may find this difficult without some outside help. That’s where friends, family and of course community services come into the picture. Community care services (more information) can be provided in your home or at a community centre through the following services:
- Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres (more information)
- Home and Community Care (HACC) (more information)
- Independent Living Centres (more information)
- Occupational therapists and physiotherapists
- Home maintenance schemes
- Safety in the home
Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre
Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres, help carers with options to take a break through short-term and emergency respite (based on assessed need) and provide advice on and coordiinate access to respite services in a carer's local area.Call 1800 200 422 for information. For emergency respite support outside standard business hours, Centres can be contacted on 1800 059 059.
Home and Community Care (HACC)
HACC services are designed for people who need support to continue living in the community and who are older and frail or who have a disability. This program can coordinate and provide a range of maintenance and support services that can help you manage your disability and maintain your independence at home and in the community. The services are offered by a wide range of providers, such as community, private, church and charitable organisations, located throughout Australia.Read more: About the Home and Community Care program
Independent Living Centres
Independent Living Centres display a comprehensive range of products to help manage disabilities in daily life. You, your carer and friends are welcome to come and try out products and equipment and decide which are most suitable for your needs. You can also contact their occupational therapists on our info-lines for advice on the types of solutions that are best for you.Occupational therapists and physiotherapists
Occupational therapists and physiotherapists can provide advice on equipment and modifications to make living easier, and techniques for your carer on safe lifting – ask your doctor to refer you.Home maintenance schemes
These local council schemes are designed to help you make your home safer and easier to manage.Read more: Home modifications and maintenance
Safety in the home
It’s important that you or your carer checks your house regularly for every possible safety hazard. To do this it’s often helpful if you develop a safety checklist to make sure you haven’t missed anything out.Read more: Safety in the home