Embracing Choice and Control through SDA
For people living with a disability, real freedom involves the ability to exercise choice and control over all the things that impact the quality of their lives. Having the opportunity to design their own support systems, live in their preferred home, and make decisions that cater to their unique needs and desires. This is precisely what Ability SDA offers to people with disabilities by empowering them to live independently on their own terms. Ability SDA facilitates tenant choice and control by encouraging them to design their own support teams and live independently in their own custom-designed SDA apartment.
Choice and Control: A Fundamental Human Right
Choice and control should never be mere buzzwords in the disability sector; they are both fundamental human rights. For individuals with disabilities, the ability to make choices about their lives, including where and how they live, is a crucial aspect of maintaining their dignity and autonomy. It promotes independence and promotes a feeling of freedom.
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) recognizes the importance of giving people with a disability choice and control when it comes to their living arrangements and care. They have introduced policies to separate SDA funding from support services in order to improve the lives of people with disabilities. This allows participants to exercise control as they choose their living arrangements and then design their own care teams and support services independently.
The Benefits of Ability SDA as a Provider
Personalised Support: Many new tenants are surprised to learn that they have the flexibility and freedom to retain their current support teams when moving into an Ability Apartment. It takes time to build a rapport with carers, and Ability SDA supports the right of its tenants to preserve these trusted relationships. This allows tenants the flexibility to select supports or services for themselves that best suits their specific needs.
Increased Independence: One of the most significant advantages of living in an Ability Apartment is the opportunity for an increased level of independence. Tenants are able to make decisions about their own daily routines and activities. They have the opportunity to decorate and arrange their personal living spaces however they choose and this ultimately leads to greater sense of self-determination and self-reliance.
Community Integration: Living independently in an Ability Apartment encourages community integration as tenants are able to engage with other tenants in the building. There are large communal areas on the rooftop terraces which are perfect for hosting guests and visitors and also allow community gatherings like afternoon teas and movie nights. Building a social network like this, supports tenant well-being and fosters a sense of belonging.
Enhanced Quality of Life: By having control over their supports and living arrangements, Ability Apartment tenants are able to design a lifestyle that enhances their overall quality of life. Many tenants work from home in their second bedrooms/offices and have the chance to build new skills. Some run their own businesses and others have been able to return to their previous roles after an accident. Tenants are able to pursue both old and new hobbies as they have the space for pianos, guitars, gaming consoles (with surround sound units!), funko pop collections, makeup stations and craft tables. Another source of joy is the fact that the Ability Apartments are all pet-friendly and many tenants are kept company by their beloved furry friends. Whether they’re pursuing their favourite hobbies, building skills, or achieving personal goals, the power of choice and a sense of personal autonomy enhances the quality and enjoyment of life.
Empowerment: Ability SDA empowers people with disabilities to take an active role in their own care. They are able to communicate their preferences, set goals, and actively participate in decision-making processes regarding their living environments and structured support plans.
Challenges and Considerations
Part of having choice and control also comes down to accepting responsibility for certain aspects of living independently. Ability SDA is a for-purpose organisation that provides SDA to people with disabilities at a heavily subsidised fee. Managing finances for supports and accommodations can be a complex process for some tenants. Most of our tenants are able to budget effectively in order to ensure they have the necessary resources they need each week and some rely on family, friends or external advisors to assist them to manage their finances effectively.
Sometimes, having too many choices can be a little overwhelming especially if tenants have previously lived in environments where they haven’t had enough opportunity to exercise their choice and control. We encourage all Ability Apartment tenants to seek advice and guidance from their families, allied health professionals or support coordinators to help them make informed decisions that are best suited to their needs.
Ability Apartment tenants always have the chance to exercise their choice and control. This is evidenced by the fact that they are able to choose their own living arrangements and supports/carers. This helps to foster a greater level of personal independence, appropriate support, and an enhanced quality of life for people living with disabilities. While it comes with an increased level of responsibility too, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Providers of Specialist Disability Accommodation, like Ability SDA, encourage their tenants on a path to self-determination and autonomy. We help to empower individuals with disabilities to live life on their own terms; with the freedom to structure their lives and living arrangements in a way that makes the most of the opportunities presented to them. Ultimately, the power of choice and control is a fundamental human right in Australia.
To check your eligibility for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), please see our Guide to Eligibility or get in touch to discuss your needs.
