Dysphagia is a health condition where a person finds it difficult to swallow. It can create problems where the person finds it difficult to eat any food, drink water or even swallow normally. This poses the risk of them choking on their food, having poor nutrition and other serious health complications. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds dysphagia support if it is directly related to a participant’s disability. The participants will have to provide evidence in the form of reports or evaluations from a speech therapist to substantiate this.
Dysphagia support needs will differ from person to person. Depending on the participant’s needs, the NDIS may fund low-cost assistive technology and thickener products that will help the participant in eating and drinking or the assistance of a trained support worker to help them eat their meals. In some cases, the NDIS may also fund the services of a speech pathologist for providing swallowing therapy, preparing mealtime management plans or for training the carers and support workers of the participant to manage dysphagia.
Registered NDIS service providers are required to provide dysphagia support safely and competently under the NDIS practice standards. Providers must ensure that their staff have the relevant knowledge and training related to dysphagia management. Regular review of the participant’s mealtime management plans and dysphagia medication also falls under the purview of the service provider.
Aastha Community Services can help you access the services of trained and efficient support workers who can help the participants to control their dysphagia symptoms which will allow them to properly enjoy their meals. We also assist the participants in consulting with health professionals to develop effective mealtime management plans that we will regularly monitor to ensure the safety and comfort of our participants. Contact us today to know more about our services and NDIS dysphagia support