Updated on May 17, 2024
Living with a disability should not prevent people from experiencing independence and fulfilling lives. Fortunately, Individual Living Options (ILO) have emerged as empowering solutions that provide people with disabilities the opportunity to live life on their own terms.
In this article, we will delve into the numerous benefits offered by ILO for individuals with disabilities, as well as address common questions regarding its functionality and availability of funding.
What is Individual Living Options (ILO)?
Individual Living Options (ILO) is an NDIS scheme developed to empower individuals with disabilities to live independently while providing necessary support tailored to their unique needs.
This alternative housing option promotes self-determination, choice, and community integration, shifting away from traditional models that restrict the freedom of individuals facing disabilities.
By encouraging personal choices and individualized support, ILO allows individuals to design a living situation that best suits their preferences and aspirations.
Benefits of Individual Living Options
1. Independence
A study conducted by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) found that ILO significantly improves individuals’ independence, decision-making skills, and self-advocacy, leading to greater control over their lives.
2. Improved quality of life
Living according to one’s own desires and aspirations directly impacts overall life satisfaction. ILO has helped individuals with disabilities experience greater happiness, a sense of belonging, and increased self-esteem, promoting overall well-being.
3. Enhanced social connections
ILO enables people with disabilities to become active participants in community life, building meaningful social connections and reducing isolation. These connections are vital for personal growth and provide opportunities for engagement, support, and friendship.
4. Tailored support services
ILO ensures that individuals receive the support they require while respecting their autonomy. Support staff work collaboratively, promoting skill-building, problem-solving, and community involvement. This ensures a well-rounded and holistic approach to support services.
How Does ILO Work?
ILO works on the principles of person-centered planning and choice and is open to eligible NDIS participants. Working closely with a support team, individuals with disabilities identify their goals, desires, and needs. They are then assisted in finding suitable housing options that align with their preferences, whether it be a fully independent living arrangement or a cooperative living environment.
Support services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. This may include assistance with daily living tasks such as personal care, home maintenance, transportation, or accessing community resources. The goal is to provide the necessary support while allowing individuals to maintain control over their lives.
The Difference between SIL and ILO
Supported Independent Living (SIL) and ILO are both options for individuals with disabilities who seek greater independence. However, there are notable differences between the two:
SIL generally offers a more rigid and structured living arrangement, where individuals have limited control over their housing and support services. It often involves sharing a home with other individuals and receiving support from agency staff.
On the other hand, ILO prioritizes person-centered planning and enables individuals to be actively involved in determining their living situation and support service facilitation. ILO emphasizes independence, choice, and tailored support to meet individual needs and goals.
How to get ILO Funding
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support funding to eligible individuals with disabilities. ILO can be considered as a funding category within the NDIS, allowing individuals to access funds to support their housing and support needs. To obtain ILO funding through the NDIS, individuals need to become NDIS participants and work with their support team to develop a plan that includes ILO funding.
It is first important to figure out if Individualized Living Options (ILO) is right for you. This you can do by filling out a form on the NDIS website. Once you share the relevant info, the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) might fund the first part of your ILO journey.
You’ll team up with a local coordinator or service provider to dream up your ideal living situation. The funding comes in two parts, all part of your NDIS plan.
The first bit helps you figure out your living dreams: where you want to live, your strengths, and how to boost your skills. It’s a bit like getting a personal guide for your journey.
After you’ve planned out your perfect living setup, your service provider will pitch your plan to the NDIA. If they give it the thumbs up, you’ll get the green light to start your services. The NDIA keeps an eye on things to make sure you’re happy and makes tweaks if needed.
Can I Live Alone in ILO?
Yes, it is possible to live alone in an ILO setting. However, this decision depends on various factors, including an individual’s level of independence, support needs, and available resources.
ILO can be customized to support individuals who prefer independent living, while still providing the necessary assistance to ensure safety and well-being.
At Centre Disability Support, you have a choice; you can share home with friends, family, other participants or live alone.
Conclusion
Individual Living Options is an NDIS-funded assistance that presents a transformative opportunity for people with disabilities to experience independence, choice, and community participation. The benefits derived from ILO range from improved quality of life and enhanced social connections to tailored support services that meet individual needs.
Looking for reliable Individual Living Options?
At Centre Disability Support, we offer tailored support services for individuals with disabilities throughout Australia. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, a loved one, or simply wish to learn more about our services, we’re here to help.
Learn more about how Individual Living Options work with us.
MORE FROM CENTRE DISABILITY SUPPORT
Supported Independent Living Vacancies
4 Benefits of Supported Independent Living (SIL) for People with Disabilities
Is Bipolar Disorder a Disability?
10 Disability Activists in Australia You Should Know
Barriers to Accessing Disability Support Services in Australia
