Supported Independent Living: Your Guide to Greater Independence

Are you or a loved one looking for ways to live more independently while still having the right support? Have you heard about Supported Independent Living (SIL) but want to understand more about how it works? SIL is an excellent option for people with disabilities who want to enjoy a sense of independence while receiving help with everyday tasks and goals. With SIL, individuals can live in their own space, learn valuable life skills, and become more active in their communities—all with support tailored just for them. 

In this guide, we will explore how SIL arrangements work and the many benefits they offer. Let’s dive into how SIL makes independent living possible, enabling people to lead fuller, more confident lives.

What is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

It often referred to as SIL, is a type of support designed to help people with disabilities live independently. Besides, with supported independent living, people can live in their own homes or share a home with others while receiving day-to-day assistance. This support is not about taking away independence but about giving individuals the tools and help they need to live as freely as possible.

How Does Supported Independent Living Work?

SIL is all about helping people with disabilities live as independently as possible while still having the support they need to manage daily life. However, SIL provides a wide range of assistance that can make life much easier and more comfortable. Here is a closer look at the types of help available through SIL:

1. Personal Care

Personal care means support with everyday tasks that are part of a regular routine but may be difficult for someone with a disability to do alone. This could include help with:

• Bathing: Assistance with getting in and out of the shower or bath, making sure it is safe as well as comfortable.
• Dressing: Support with putting on clothes, choosing appropriate outfits, and making sure the person feels good about themselves.

2. Household Tasks

Running a home can be challenging, so SIL offers help with household tasks to keep things organised as well as clean. Support workers can generally assist with tasks like:

• Cooking and Meal Preparation: This might mean planning meals, grocery shopping, chopping ingredients, and cooking. For some, it might also mean getting reminders about when it’s time to eat.
• Cleaning: Regular cleaning to keep the home tidy as well as safe. However, it can include vacuuming, dusting, washing dishes, and more.

NDIS-Supported Living in Australia

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) funds and organises SIL for people across Australia. If you are eligible for NDIS support, you may be able to add SIL to your NDIS plan. However, the goal of NDIS-supported living in Australia is to give people with disabilities the opportunity to make choices about where and how they live.

NDIS participants work with planners or support coordinators to decide if SIL is suitable for them and to choose the level of support they require. In fact, every individual’s SIL setup is unique, allowing people to customise their support to fit their goals and daily needs.

Benefits of Supported Independent Living

Choosing SIL offers a range of benefits, including:

• Increased Independence: SIL empowers individuals to live more independently with the support they need.
• Community Connection: With the right support, individuals can actively participate in their community, making friends and building confidence.
• Personalised Support: SIL offers tailored support based on each person’s unique needs and goals.

Conclusion

If you or your loved one is ready to take the next step toward independent living, My Second Home is here to help. We provide caring, professional support through our SIL services, tailored to meet each person’s unique needs as well as goals. With us, you can feel confident knowing that our team is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment that generally empowers individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives. So, reach out to us today to learn how we can make SIL a reality for you or your loved one!