Navigating NDIS support beyond 65

Reaching the age of 65 marks a significant milestone, often accompanied by changes in healthcare needs and support requirements. For those accustomed to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), questions may arise about eligibility and the continuity of support. In this blog post, we address common queries related to NDIS eligibility beyond the age of 65.

NDIS age limitations:

To qualify for the NDIS, applicants must be under the age of 65 on the day of application. It's crucial for the application to be received and accepted by the NDIS at least one day before the individual's 65th birthday. If you are 65 or older, alternative avenues, such as My Aged Care, should be explored for funding and support.

Maintaining NDIS support after 65:

Contrary to a common misconception, turning 65 does not automatically disqualify individuals from the NDIS. If someone is already an NDIS participant upon reaching 65, they can continue to receive NDIS funding, provided they meet the ongoing eligibility criteria.

Decisions regarding NDIS participation:

If an individual was residing in aged care before turning 65, they have the option to remain in the NDIS. However, choosing permanent Aged Care funded services, such as home care, prompts a transition out of the NDIS. Similarly, opting for aged care after turning 65 requires individuals to leave the NDIS and access funding through My Aged Care.

NDIS vs. My Aged Care:

The decision between staying with the NDIS or transitioning to My Aged Care depends on various factors, including the nature of the disability, when it first emerged, and the level of support needed. According to a report by Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), NDIS participants generally enjoy a more extensive range of support options compared to available services for older Australians.

LASA's Chief Executive Officer, Sean Rooney, highlighted disparities in funding per aged care recipient, resulting in fewer available hours of care compared to NDIS participants. However, it's essential to consider that improvements and recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care have influenced positive changes in the aged care sector.

If you're exploring home care options, consider reaching out to More Than Support for personalised assistance tailored to your unique circumstances. Give us a call.