NDIS and assistive technology

26 Sep

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an initiative by the Australian Government that assists people by providing funding for supports and services that promote greater independence and quality of life. If you are eligible for the NDIS (see here to check), you go on to receive a NDIS plan. In your plan, you will form goals that you would like to achieve by utilising the funding.

Assistive Technology (AT)

Part of your NDIS plan may include a budget for Assistive Technology (AT). Although ‘technology’ is in the name, an AT item does not necessarily need to be a high-tech item. AT is any piece of equipment that lets you perform a task you wouldn’t otherwise be able to do, or makes it easier and safer for you to perform a task.

Simply Modified as Assistive Technology

The Simply Modified cookbook can fall under the AT umbrella, if it is linked to the goals within your plan. So, think creatively about what your NDIS goals are, and how ‘technology’ can help you achieve them. NDIS goals can be as broad or as specific as you like, as long as they are related to your needs.

“The Simply Modified cookbook can fall under the AT umbrella, if it is linked to the goals within your plan.”

Some example goals that the Simply Modified cookbook can assist with:

I would like to achieve greater independence when preparing meals,
I would like to support my safety and wellbeing during mealtimes,
I would like to increase my capacity to make informed decisions about my swallowing and mealtimes,
I would like to increase the variety of different foods I consume (reduce restriction),
I would like to increase my choice and control at mealtimes.

While a supporting letter from a Speech Pathologist is helpful, it will not always be required. If you have any questions, reach out to your Local Area Coordinator (LAC), or Plan Manager.

Living Situation and Caregiver Supports

Dependent on your living situation and capacity, you may have caregivers preparing meals on your behalf. As always, for anyone experiencing dysphagia, it is recommended you reach out to a Speech Pathologist, particularly when it comes to caregiver training. The Simply Modified cookbook is a wonderful tool, alongside your Speech Pathologist it helps to up-skill caregivers in adhering to IDDSI/clinical recommendations.

Simply Modified is used in people’s homes, specialist disability accommodation (SDA/SIL), respite accommodation, and aged care homes. If this sounds like you, make sure it is reflected in your NDIS plan with goals such as:

I would like my caregivers to prepare my meals in line with IDDSI/clinical recommendations,
I would like caregiver assistance with meal preparation to support my dysphagia,
I would like to achieve greater safety and enjoyment of mealtimes with caregiver assistance,
Within my SDA/SIL/aged care home… I would like to access a variety of different (dysphagia safe) foods to support my overall health and wellbeing.

So, in summary… wherever your mealtimes take place, you can rest assured that Simply Modified will help.

“So, in summary… wherever your mealtimes take place, you can rest assured that Simply Modified will help.”

Using NDIS Funding

It is our mission to make dysphagia cooking accessible for all who need it. So, if you require a quote for your NDIS plan, complete the form below, and we will send you one within a day: NDIS QUOTE REQUEST FORM.

To learn more about the NDIS, visit: https://www.ndis.gov.au/

Written by Brie Simons
Speech Pathologist
SIMPLY MODIFIED COOKING