What is NDIS Low-Cost Assistive Technology? Everything You Need to Know
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) revolves around diverse disability service offerings. Under this Australian government-initiated disability scheme, assistive technology (AT) services comprise a wide range of products to help participants complete their everyday life cycles. The NDIS assistive technology segment refers to the physical support segment, where participants can access advanced and customized equipment to do something they find challenging due to their disability.
AT includes everything from walking sticks to folding/ adjustable wheelchairs, mobile apps, bathroom equipment, and more. The program has three different categories. In this blog post, we will discuss the key insights of its most demanding and adopted category, NDIS low-cost assistive technology (AT).
What is NDIS Low-Cost Assistive Technology (AT)?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme, aka NDIS, offers funding or financial support for assistive technology (AT), which helps people with disabilities reach their personal and professional goals. AT comprises various devices and services that improve mobility, communication, and daily living skills.
Low-cost AT under the NDIS is when disabled participants get required equipment under $1,500. They can enable that equipment support directly through their existing NDIS funds. This means individuals do not need to go through a lengthy approval process for each purchase, allowing quicker and more accessible access to necessary tools.
The NDIS AT assistance is formed into three categories, such as:
- Low-cost AT: under $1500 per item.
- Mid-cost AT: between $1500 and $5000 per item.
- High-cost AT: over $5000 per item (requires a quote)
Low-Cost Assistive Technology that Falls Under NDIS Plans
The NDIS funds Assistive Technology (AT), which helps people with disabilities achieve their goals. Under this scheme, participants can purchase low-cost AT items, which generally cost less than $1,500, utilizing the existing NDIS funding without requiring additional approval.
Some common lost-cost items you can access are:
- Bed or chair raisers.
- Smartphone apps related to disability.
- Walking stick or cane.
- Fitness equipment (Yoga mat, resistance bands, stability ball, etc.).
- Adaptive equipment (grab bars, non-slip bath mat, shower chairs, adjustable toilet seat raiser).
- Communication devices (speech-generating devices and communication boards).
- Kitchen trolley.
- Assistive utensils for household tasks.
- Kitchen stool over bed table.
- Hand shower.
- Rollator.
- Four-wheeled walker frame.
- Orthopaedic footwear.
- Standard adjustable height chair.
Low-Cost Assistive Technology that NDIS Doesn't Fund
- Internet access or data.
- Home equipment/objects like standard kettle or furniture.
- Items for treatment or rehabilitation.
- Children's play equipment does not cater to sensory needs.
- Assessment of therapy tools used by therapists.
Benefits of NDIS Low-Cost Assistive Technology
NDIS Low-cost assistive technology offers numerous benefits for individuals. These points ensure high-end flexibility and improvements in their lives, which help them lead self-dependent and fulfilling lives.
Enhanced Independence: Low-cost AT helps with everyday activities like dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, significantly boosting self-resilience. Moreover, devices like canes, walkers, and wheelchairs improve mobility and access to the community.
Empower Quality of Life: Low-cost AT can significantly improve individuals' lives by enhancing their control over daily activities and decision-making. This support fosters independence and boosts their sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Cost-effective Solutions: Low-cost assistive technology is designed to fit limited budgets, making it accessible to more individuals. Investing in these tools can help individuals and caregivers reduce long-term healthcare costs.
Tailored Support: Participants can easily customize low-cost AT to meet specific needs and preferences. Occupational therapists are essential resources, providing expert guidance and support in selecting the most suitable devices.
How Can You Access Low-Cost AT Through NDIS?
Participants can claim low-cost AT by leveraging their NDIS core consumable budget. This is the most common way for them to access most tools and equipment conveniently. To make it hassle-free, participants must first determine their requirements. They must conduct a planning meeting with the support coordinator or NDIS planner to identify their specific needs. Here, they must underline the type of AT, its cost, and how it will help them achieve their goal.
Plan and self-managed participants can purchase the item from any provider (registered or unregistered). However, NDIS-managed participants can only purchase items from any NDIA-registered provider. They only need to create a "service booking" for each purchase!
Final Thought
NDIS low-cost assistive technology support is a game changer for many individuals with disabilities. This initiative has transformed participants' approaches and uplifted their confidence in doing something independently and with little assistance. The best part is they have access to general equipment under NDIS low-cost AT within their funding. Most of the participants are being treated under the NDIA-managed category. Hence, this is a lifesaver for them, allowing them to live a happy and independent life with the latest customized equipment support in all segments.
At Admire Care , we stock a wide range of AT products, including low-cost assistive technology equipment, allowing individuals to enable them in their everyday activities to achieve optimal efficiency and proactivity. Contact us today for end-to-end NDIS low-cost AT assistance!