Sublime Care
NDIS Disability Services NSW | Aged Care | Sublime Care
Consider assistive technology or home modifications when everyday tasks at home become unsafe, tiring or difficult, such as getting in and out of the shower, climbing stairs or moving around. Acting early can reduce falls and protect independence. An assessment by an occupational therapist or other qualified professional is often the best first step.
Home should be the place where you feel safe and in control. When a step feels steeper, a bathroom feels riskier, or a task takes all your energy, it may be time to ask what could make life easier. The right equipment or a small change to your home can make a big difference.
What is the difference?
Assistive technology is equipment or devices that help you do things you cannot easily do because of disability. Examples include shower chairs, walking aids, transfer equipment, wheelchairs and personal alarms.
Home modifications are custom changes to the home itself, such as grab rails, ramps, widened doorways or a redesigned bathroom. The NDIS describes them as custom-built changes that help you access and use areas of your home.
Seven signs it may be time
- You have had a fall or a near miss.
- Showering, toileting or getting out of bed has become difficult.
- You avoid stairs, steps or parts of your home.
- Moving around leaves you exhausted or in pain.
- A carer is lifting or helping more than is safe.
- You are coming home from hospital, or your condition is changing.
- You want to stay at home for longer, and you want to do it safely.
- If one or more of these sounds familiar, it is worth asking for advice.
How are they funded?
Funding depends on the program you use.
NDIS
NDIS supports must meet the reasonable and necessary criteria. For assistive technology, the NDIS requires an assessment by a professional assistive technology advisor and a quote for items costing more than $15,000. Lower cost items still need supporting evidence.
For home modifications, the NDIS requires a home modification assessor to recommend what changes are needed. Complex work may also need approvals and completion certificates. Funding applies only if you own the home, or the owner agrees to the modification.
Support at Home (older Australians)
The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme provides separate funding for equipment and home changes. Your needs are considered during your aged care assessment, and the approved tier appears in your Notice of Decision and support plan. The tiers are:
Low: under $500
Medium: up to $2,000High: up to $15,000 (more for assistive technology, if needed)
Most people have 12 months to use their funding. You can read more on My Aged Care. Our AT-HM Scheme page explains how Sublime Care supports this process.
How does an occupational therapist help?
An occupational therapist looks at how you move through your home and your daily routines. They can recommend the equipment or changes that suit you, and they can help you avoid costly mistakes. For complex work, you may need an assessment before funding is approved.
Five steps to get started
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- Notice the problem. Write down which tasks are hard, and where.
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- Ask for an assessment. Speak with your occupational therapist, your support coordinator or your Support at Home provider.
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- Check your funding. Look at your NDIS plan or aged care support plan.
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- Get the right quotes. Your provider can help coordinate quotes where needed.
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- Plan for installation and training. Make sure you know how to use new equipment safely.
Tips for homes in NSW
If you rent, ask your landlord for written agreement before any modification. For larger changes, allow extra time for approvals and trades. If you live in Newcastle or the Hunter, ask your provider about local tradespeople and equipment suppliers.
Frequently asked questions
When should I consider home modifications? Consider them when daily tasks at home are unsafe or hard to do, or when your needs are changing.
Do I need an assessment first? Often, yes. The NDIS requires an assessor for home modifications and an advisor for higher cost assistive technology. Support at Home funding starts with an aged care assessment.
Can I modify a rental home? Only if the owner agrees. Always get this in writing.
Who can help me begin? Your occupational therapist, support coordinator or provider.
Talk to Sublime Care
If you are unsure where to start, our team would be happy to talk it through. Reach out today, and we will help you take the first step.
Phone: 02 4915 9627
This article provides general information only and is not personal, medical or legal advice. Funding rules and limits can change, so please check with the NDIS or My Aged Care.