Vision Australia has expanded its operations into the Northern Territory, increasing support for older people in Darwin and those who live within 100 kilometres of the city, provided they are eligible for My Aged Care. Under the My Aged Care scheme, Vision Australia can now offer a range of its specialised blindness and low vision services, including occupational therapists, orientation and mobility specialists and adaptive technology specialists.
“Commonwealth Home Support Programs are designed to help provide older Australians with the skills and support that will help them to remain safe and independent in their own home,” said Laree Verra, Vision Australia Northern Territory Regional Manager.
“Living with blindness or low vision can be a challenge to doing that, but our staff can provide people with expert advice and support around what steps they should take, whether it be incorporating adaptive technology, home modifications or learning how to safely navigate in and around their home.”
Staff on the ground in in Darwin will provide the bulk of the support services, with staff from Vision Australia’s Queensland centres conducting fly-in fly-out services as required.
Commonwealth Home Support Programs are designed to help provide older Australians with the skills and support that will help them to remain safe and independent in their own home
Under the My Aged Care scheme, people may be eligible for a Commonwealth Home Support Program if they are 65 years or older, or 50 years or older and identify as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person.
Vision Australia can support people through the My Aged Care registration and assessment process. Visit www.visionaustralia.org or call (AUS) 1300 887 058.
