NDRD

1

In heavily supported areas, consider furniture selection and location to manage health and safety, to maximise access, and to assist effective support routines and delivery.

2

Options to call for support via assistive technologies, or to manage independence without line of sight at all times, may be required (refer Assistive Technology notes also)

3

Locating the heavily supported rooms (e.g. bedroom, bathroom and/or laundry) near an entrance allows discreet entry and exit of support staff, maximising privacy in the home and for co-residents.

4

Housing design should consider options for privacy, including dedicated unsupported spaces.

5

A dedicated bathroom or accessible robe may also offer storage and charging of equipment related to support (e.g. portable hoist; mobile shower commode).

6

Consider undercover access from car parking to dwelling when a tenant has support needs relating to vehicle transfers and/or transport.

7

Houses may be provided with or without onsite overnight assistance space (OOA).. OOA is defined as an additional room inside or adjoining the dwelling (see SDA price guide).

8

The person in receipt of support should be assisted, wherever possible, to participate in the recruitment and training of support staff.

9

Developing options, routines and skills for supported or independent daily living tasks and leisure activities can assist autonomy.

10

A separate pantry room/space can allow graded access to food if required.

11

Reliance on human supports may be reduced by the consistent use of external cognitive aids (e.g. checklists, orientation material, prompts).

12

The kitchen may become an area of heavy use and support in a house – consider designing for access by a range of users and support persons.

13

Provision of a second powder room or ambulant bathroom may allow visitors or co-tenants to use one bathroom at the same time as personal care support is delivered.

14

Cleaning and laundry needs of the person requiring support may be addressed by the person and/or their support workers independently, or in conjunction with other household members. Planning of the timing and support required will be necessary.

15

In robust design houses, a ‘break out’ room (a separate room designed to respond to the individual disability related needs of the participant) may be provided for support staff (refer SDA price guide).

16

Living in a house with others requires support delivery in some locations in the home, whilst also maximising privacy for all residents.