CONVERSATIONS 6 Changes to NDIS Legislation NDIS support lists available From 3 October 2024, participants will only be able to use their NDIS funds for items listed as NDIS supports. There is also a list of things NDIS funding cannot be used for. In some circumstances participants may be able to request a substitution from the replacement support list. https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/what-doesndis-fund#what-is-ndis-support New NDIS laws start From 3 October 2024, new laws for the NDIS are now in effect. This follows the passing of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No.1) Bill being passed by the Parliament on 22 August 2024. Many changes will come through new NDIS Rules. These rules explain how the Scheme operates. Some changes will happen right away, while others will start later as we design and implement them. These changes help return the NDIS to its original intent and improve the experience for all participants. New rules For most people there won’t be big changes to the way you experience the NDIS right now. A key change is the new definition of NDIS supports. This definition makes it clear what NDIS funding can and cannot cover. It applies to all participants. Here is what you need to know: • From now on, participants can only use their NDIS funds for items listed as NDIS supports. • There will also be a list of items that NDIS funding cannot cover. • There is a replacement rule that allows a participant to substitute a support that is not an NDIS support in specific cases. • You can find the new definition of NDIS supports and the lists on the NDIS Guidelines website. • Other changes starting from 3 October include: • New and reviewed plans will show total budget amounts, funding component amounts, and funding periods. • The NDIA can change your plan management type if you need help managing your funds. • For more information: https://www.ndis.gov.au/changes-ndislegislation Good nutrition in older people is a major health concern. Many older people who live independently are at risk of malnutrition. Good nutrition is important to optimise health, independence and quality of life. It improves wound healing, helps preserve bone mass, muscle mass and strength thus reducing the risk of falls and fractures. Good nutrition improves wellbeing. One of the main nutrition challenges facing older people today is ensuring they are eating enough nourishing food. The practical issues of shopping for food and preparing meals can be difficult, especially if living alone or with a disabled partner. The cost of fresh healthy food can be prohibitive for some older people as well. Poor nutrition is a bigger risk that obesity as we get older. It is better for older people to carry a little extra weight as this will help to see them through illness and times when their appetite is poor. The risk of being poorly nourished increases with age. There are a number of reasons for this including chronic medical conditions, decreased appetite, lack of interest in cooking, unable to do the shopping, chewing problems and loneliness. People with a very poor appetite need more high calorie, nutritious foods and drinks in their diet every day. E.g. milk shakes, fruit smoothies and nourishing snacks. Retaining muscle mass is important as decreased muscle mass means loss of strength and power and this affects the ability to carry out everyday activities. The weakness and frailty that come with muscle loss increases the risk of falls. Protein requirements are higher for older people than for younger people. If you have difficulty preparing meals or can’t be bothered, especially if you are tired talk to your Homecare Coordinator about alternative ways to ensure that you are eating well, this might include: • Organising Meals on Wheels or Dinner with Ease. • Prepared meals from the supermarket. • Getting help with shopping and cooking. • Visiting community/church centres where cheap meals are available, and you meet other people. • It’s ok to eat nourishing deserts – milk-based custards or yoghurt with fruit. • Inviting a guest to share a meal – home cooked or take away. Eating well as we age
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1