What is the difference between Supported Independent Living and Specialist Disability Accommodation?
When exploring NDIS housing options, you may come across two terms: Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). Though they often go hand-in-hand, they focus on different aspects of your living situation. Here’s a breakdown:
Supported Independent Living
SIL is about the support you receive to live as independently as possible. It’s not about the house itself but the services and assistance that help you manage daily life. With SIL, you can get support for:
- Daily tasks: Help with cooking, cleaning, personal care and other household chores.
- Life skills: Assistance with budgeting, grocery shopping and socialising.
- Safety and supervision: Support workers can ensure your safety, offering help in emergencies or on a regular schedule.
- 24/7 or scheduled support: Depending on your needs, you may have access to support workers around the clock or at set times.
SIL can be provided in various types of homes, including those designed under SDA.
Specialist Disability Accommodation
SDA focuses on the physical home you live in, designed to accommodate high support needs. SDA homes include features that make it easier to move around and live comfortably, such as:
- Wide doorways and hallways to fit wheelchairs or mobility aids.
- Mobility aids such as hoists and ramps.
- Accessible bathrooms and kitchens designed for wheelchair access with lower countertops and easy-to-use fixtures.
- Stronger building structures for added safety and durability.
SDA ensures the home itself is physically accessible and suitable for your needs.
The key difference
SIL is about the support you get to live independently, while SDA focuses on the design of the home itself. Together, they create a living situation that’s not only safe, but empowering. Many people who qualify for SDA will also benefit from SIL, ensuring both their home and support services are tailored to their needs.
Finding the right support
Choosing the right housing and support can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. If you want to learn more about SIL, SDA, or finding a home that suits your needs, reach out to Melba today. For SIL, contact Jessamine at silvacancies@melbasupport.com.au or on 03 8763 4360. For SDA contact 1300 696 352.
