Dementia is often thought of as an age-related condition, but younger onset dementia can affect people well before they turn 65. It significantly affects a person’s cognitive and functional abilities to the point where it affects everyday tasks and independent living. Understanding dementia as a disability rather than merely an age-related condition is fundamental in helping individuals access the right supports, including those available through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS will provide funding
and services to help individuals with dementia maintain independence, participate in community life, and achieve their goals—even as their circumstances evolve.
The NDIS is guided by th...
Dementia is often thought of as an age-related condition, but younger onset dementia can affect people well before they turn 65. It significantly affects a person’s cognitive and functional abilities to the point where it affects everyday tasks and independent living. Understanding dementia as a disability rather than merely an age-related condition is fundamental in helping individuals access the right supports, including those available through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS will provide funding
and services to help individuals with dementia maintain independence, participate in community life, and achieve their goals—even as their circumstances evolve.
The NDIS is guided by the principle of “reasonable and necessary” supports. Funding will focus on services and resources directly related to the impact of dementia, rather than other unrelated health conditions. Supports can cover activities that help the eligible participant maintain or increase independence. These NDIS-funded supports are flexible and tailored to the participant’s individual needs. It might include help with daily tasks such as showering, dressing, preparing meals, and managing medications. Home modifications, and cleaning services may help them maintain a safe and comfortable environment. If navigating the community independently has become challenging, participants may be able to access assistive technology like GPS watches, medication alarms, or dementia-specific clocks. NDIS participants can also seek support from allied health professionals—occupational therapists and speech pathologists—who help maintain or improve functional ability over time. Determining eligibility of a person with dementia for NDIS support involves presenting evidence of their diagnosis and how it impacts their daily life. This documentation must come from specialists and should clearly explain the progressive, degenerative nature of dementia.
