Improving quality of life in residential age care
Supports to enhance quality of life for younger people living in residential age care (RAC) have been allocated for 130 younger people so far. The supports include funding for therapy services such as physiotherapy and speech therapy. Attendant care is also being funded to assist people to participate in the community and pursue their leisure interests, or reconnect with family and friends. Non-recurrent funding can assist to purchase aids and equipment (such as wheelchairs and communication devices) for some people living in RAC to improve their mobility and comfort.
Planning and assessment
Individualised planning and assessment has now been provided for more than 220 people who are aged less than 50 who are living in, or at risk of admission to, RAC across Victoria. The planning process allows the younger person and their family and friends to consider their specific support and accommodation needs, aspirations and other important lifestyle factors. It presents an opportunity to explore different living options and consider models of care which may best meet an individual's needs and preferences.
The Summer Foundation was engaged by Disability Services to develop a planning and assessment framework in early 2007. A report has been prepared by the Summer Foundation that aggregates and summarises the key outcomes of the planning and assessment process, and a summary of the full report (external site) has been provided to younger people who participated in the process.
Contact details
The Department of Human Services Disability Intake and Response Service is the key point of contact for people with disabilities and their families. This service will connect you to your regional office and is available during business hours, Monday to Friday from 9am - 5pm on 1800 783 783 or TTY 1800 008.
For general enquiries, or to request materials in other languages or formats, please contact:
Telephone: (03) 9096 8724
Email: myfuturemychoice@dhs.vic.gov.au