Assistive Technology NDIS
NDIS assistive technology (AT) is cleverly designed technology that can support a client to perform activities either with greater ease, in a safer manner, or to support them to do tasks they might otherwise not have been able to do.
At Connect2Care, our Therapists can support clients to identify appropriate assistive technology NDIS that can improve their independence in their day-to-day lives. Some examples of prescribed technologies can be as simple as kettle tippers, and modified cutlery, or as complex as electric wheelchairs, hoists, or even a Thermomix.
As registered NDIS providers, we will recommend items we feel are reasonable and necessary based on the strict guidelines of the NDIS, providing assessments for the use of these items and comprehensive reports that will support the inclusion of these items in one’s funding plan.
For a more comprehensive list, see the NDIS Assistive Technology and Consumables Guide of the most common reasonable and necessary AT supports, including the support categories and line items.
Why Choose Connect2Care As Your NDIS Assistive Technology Provider
At Connect2Care, we understand the importance of independence in life. That is why we help Australians access products designed to assist with everyday tasks and improve their quality of life. Our team of registered NDIS providers and therapists enables us to suggest items that are reasonable and necessary based on your individual needs, strengths, and capacity.
We’re a family-owned and operated business with decades of experience in the disability sector and a passion for making a positive difference in the lives of the Australians we work with. Our services include identifying appropriate assistive technology NDIS such as kettle tippers, modified cutlery, or electric wheelchairs as well as providing assessments for your use of these items. We also provide comprehensive reports to help support any inclusion into an NDIS funding plan.
We strive to improve people’s independence and quality of life through evidence-based and compassionately provided therapy. Contact us today to learn more about our help with NDIS assistive technology.
Levels of Assistive Technology
The NDIA uses three levels to assess the complexity of different Assistive Technology requirements.
Low-cost assistive technology NDIS
Under $1,500 per item, low-cost items are:
- easy to set up and use
- available from local suppliers or non-disability-specific retailers.
Examples of low-cost technology include, but are not limited to:
- continence products
- non-slip bath mats
- large print labels
- walking sticks
- basic shower chairs.
Mid-cost assistive technology
This is technology that costs between $1,500 and $15,000 per item and may be more difficult for a person to choose and set up.
This will be a broad category and includes technology, such as:
- a standing hoist
- a customised shower chair
- ankle-foot orthotics
- pressure care mattresses.
High-cost assistive technology NDIS
Any items over $15,000 per item are categorised as high-cost items:
- Are complex and need an individual assessment to make sure it is the right solution for your needs.
- Need specialised knowledge or tools to set them up.
- May be custom-made for your needs.
- Generally need a quote so the NDIS includes the right amount of funding in your plan.
This level of technology may include:
- A wheelchair made specifically for you.
- Ceiling hoists.
- Complex communication devices.
- Powered adjustable beds.
Connect2Care Assistive Technology Assessments
Connect2Care Assistive Technology NDIS Assessments
Our Occupational Therapists are approved specialist assistive technology advisors. They have the qualifications and skills to assess and recommend assistive technology that might be appropriate to increase one’s independence and function.
When it comes to technology, the products available are endless but finding the right individualised solution is crucial to one’s safety and function. Some examples of recommended Assistive Technology are:
- Continence-related equipment, e.g. pads, and assessments.
- Equipment for eating and drinking, including modified cutlery or specific drinking cups
- Assistive products for household tasks.
- Assistive products for personal care and safety.
- Beds and pressure care mattresses.
- Equipment or aids for dressing or specialised clothing.
- Specialised household furniture, e.g. seating and standing frames, and walking frames.
- Bathroom and toilet equipment, e.g. change table, shower commodes, bathing support.
- Personal Alarms, e.g. monitoring alarms, safety devices.
- Communication and information equipment, e.g. communication devices.
- Assistive products for hearing and vision adapted telephones and mobile phones.
- Assistance animals, e.g. guide dogs.
- Assistive equipment for recreation, e.g. adapted bicycles and tricycles, switch adapted toys.
We can also assist with assessing personal mobility equipment, including:
- Transfer equipment, e.g. hoists or slings.
- Equipment related to walking, e.g. four-wheeled walkers
- Specialised seating for wheelchairs and other wheeled mobility equipment, e.g. postural systems and support.
- Specialised strollers.
- Wheelchairs and scooters, e.g. manual, electric, or folding.
We provide assessments for home modifications, including:
- Rails.
- Modified taps.
- Ramps.
- Bathroom modifications.
- Door widenings.
- Kitchen modifications.
COVID-19 specific Assistive Technology e.g., iPad, laptop, and where appropriate play equipment. These items were identified as technology that may assist one in maintaining therapeutic input during a disrupted time.
What does assistive technology ndis mean?
The term “assistive technology NDIS” refers to assistive, adaptive, or rehabilitative devices that may help elderly people or those with disabilities. NDIS assistive technology can help Australians to live healthy independent lives, participating in education, workplaces, and day-to-day life with lesser needs for long-term care or formal health and support services.
Assistive technology can help reduce exclusion and isolation by providing methods to interact and engage with activities at home and in society. Some examples of assistive technologies include:
- computer access aids like modified keyboards, pointers, or voice assist
- augmented communication devices like communication boards
- recreational devices to help enjoy hobbies like modified fishing rods, audio descriptions for movies, or cuffs for grasping paddles or rackets
- sensory aids such as magnifiers, hearing aids, or braille and speech output devices
- mobility aids like electric or manual wheelchairs, canes, or walkers
What is an assistive technology professional?
An assistive technology professional implements a comprehensive approach to helping Australians. They expertly identify the needs of consumers and provide tailored assistance in selecting and using suitable technologies that are most beneficial for them.
If you, or someone you know, may benefit from NDIS assistive technology, please contact us to learn more.
How to choose the right assistive technology:
Finding appropriate assistive technology for a person requires careful consideration of the environment, available technology, and careful input from the consumer, and possibly family, carers and relevant professionals. It can be a multi-step process requiring in-depth knowledge of an individual’s needs, meaning other assessment services may be required to determine the most beneficial solutions.
FAQs
Devices or software designed to help people with disabilities perform daily tasks more independently are collectively described as Assistive Technology. It can facilitate mobility, communication, and everyday activities, thereby making life easier and more accessible for people with disabilities.
To access Assistive Technology through the NDIS, one must be under 65 years of age, reside in Australia, and meet the disability requirements, which include having a permanent impairment that significantly impacts their daily activities. Once one becomes eligible for accessing Assistive Technology under NDIS, it can be included in your NDIS plan if it is deemed reasonable and necessary to support your health goals and needs.
You don’t need a referral to avail of Assistive Technology (AT) services under the NDIS. However, depending on the cost and complexity of the AT, you may be required to provide evidence or assessments to demonstrate that the said device is necessary for your health needs. For costly items, it is advisable to consult with an AT assessor to ensure the appropriate solution is selected.
The NDIS does fund Assistive Technology (AT) across three cost categories. The Low-cost AT refers to costs under $1,500, which include walking sticks, basic shower chairs, or continence products. Mid-cost AT refers to costs between $1,500 and $15,000 and includes items like standing hoists, customised shower chairs, ankle-foot orthotics, alternative communication devices, and some power wheelchairs. High-cost AT refers to costs exceeding $15,000, encompassing complex items such as custom-made wheelchairs, advanced communication devices, prosthetics, and ventilators.
The NDIS doesn’t fund Assistive Technology (AT) items that do not pertain to your disability. It also does not fund those AT items, which don’t help you in performing tasks that you cannot do due to your disability. Neither does it fund standard household items, items which are illegal, unsafe or pose a risk to users and others. Neither does it fund duplicate supports already provided under other funding sources.
An Assistive Technology item, which is simple to use and has very little possibility to cause harm, like walking sticks or basic seating, is clubbed under “low risk”. “Higher risk” AT items are those that require professional assessment and training due to their complexity or potential safety concerns. Examples of such items could be powered wheelchairs or complex communication devices.
In order to request Assistive Technology (AT) through your NDIS plan, first identify the specific AT that will assist you in achieving your goals. For mid-cost assistive technology (AT), written evidence from an Assistive Technology advisor, such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, is required. For high-cost AT (over $15,000), a formal assessment and quote are typically required.
You can use your NDIS funding to purchase Assistive Technology (AT) from a registered NDIS provider or any other provider, but the specifics depend on how your plan is managed.
If you need to change your Assistive Technology or no longer require the specified AT item, please contact your NDIS planner or support coordinator to update your plan. You can consider returning, repairing, or replacing the equipment to make it better suited for your current needs.
To avail Connect2Care’s Exercise Physiology services, you should complete their online referral form at connect2care.com.au/refer-to-us. Alternatively, you can contact them directly at 1800 950 288 or via their contact page to discuss your health needs and book an appointment.
