Over the last 20 years the percentage of the population aged 65 and over increased from 12.4% to 16.3%. This age group is predicted to increase quickly over the next decade as those born between the late 1950's and early 1960’s begin to turn 65 years of age.
The current date for this demographic:
ACTIVE PARTICPANTS*
AVERAGE COMMITTMENT OF FUNDS*
AVERAGE PAYMENTS*
According to the NDIS 2022/23 data, under one percent of NDIS participants are over 65, but as we go into the next 10 years that figure will rise to 15%.
If you service customers in this age demographic, then how do you assist them in navigating the unique challenges that may arise from being over 65 and living with a disability?
Some of your customers might have been long-term recipients of the Disability Support Pension and don’t know how to steer this new territory.
Let’s look at some questions that may be raised by your customer.
Should I transition from disability to the aged pension?
Disability Support Pension vs The Aged Pension
A letter from Services Australia will be sent to your customer around 12-13 weeks before their eligibility birthday.
So, let’s have a look at what to expect from both types of financial support.
Aged Pension:
- No medical or medical reviews
- Higher rate of payment and higher income and assets tests
- Possibility of getting the work bonus
- Overseas travel rules are 26 weeks before the pension decreases
- There is no change to the carer allowance for your partner
- Able to volunteer without restrictions.
Disability Support Pension:
- Higher rate of mobility allowance
- Higher rate of rent assistance
- Retain the incentive allowance if you are in supported employment and not receiving the rent assistance.
- Overseas travel rules are 28 days before suspension of pension
Your customer can be assisted to find out further information that may help them decide from these resources:
Can I stay on the NDIS after I turn 65?
One of the guiding principles of the NDIS Act is:
“People with disability and their families and carers should have certainty that people with disability will receive the care and support they need over their lifetime.” *
NDIS Act NDIS Legislation
Your customer can choose to remain on the NDIS unless they:
- Move to an aged care facility.
- Receive Home care support.
- Acquire another disability after 65.
One of the advantages of remaining on the NDIS is that it has been reported that the NDIS typically funds higher amounts than you would receive under the aged care package.
Example 1
Helen is 68, she resides in a supported independent living option funded by her NDIS plan. There she receives all the assistance she requires to live a happy life.
Helen unfortunately is involved in a car accident and receives injuries that are permanent. These injuries need much more care than Helen's provider can give. A collective decision is made with Helen to move into a nursing facility, where she can be assisted to live in a more appropriate setting due to her acquiring a further disability.
Helen will now be transitioned from the NDIS to the Aged Care system.
Example 2
David has just turned 65 and receives 8 hours a week of personal care supports through his NDIS funding. Now that he is 65, David has the opportunity to receive aged care services.
David weighs up his options and decides he benefits from the current supports; he is happy with the provider and there has been no change in his care needs.
David remains with the NDIS and continues to use his funding.
For more information: Aged Care Guide
Make sure to explore all the resources available to successfully support your older clients. You can then provide them with information that guides them in understanding the choices they have as they mark their 65th birthdays.
* NDIS website Data
The Lama Care Team
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