Accordion

Changes in the person's abilities or health

If a person's abilities or health status changes, their capacity to participate in the agreed support activities may be affected. If their health or abilities improve, the person may no longer require the services they are receiving or some support activities may no longer meet their needs. If their abilities or health deteriorates (temporarily, progressively or permanently) they may not be able to engage in the agreed support activities and additional services may be required.

Example

Jeremy is 58 years old and has multiple sclerosis (MS). His needs when his MS is affecting him are vastly different from when he is in remission. Jeremy's support activities and individualised plan need to be reviewed and changed to reflect his changing needs.

Changes to the person's lifestyle or living arrangements

Support activities should assist to maintain independence by allowing a person to remain living in their own home or by providing the means for an individual to participate in their community, even when their life situation changes.

Example

Barbara is 47 years old and has Down syndrome. She lived with her mother who recently died. With her mother's assistance, the support activities documented on her individualised plan were sufficient for Barbara. Now that Barbara is without her main family support, her support activities need to be altered significantly to enable Barbara to maintain her independence.

Problems with the person's ability to cope

Support activities may assist a person to access their community, develop or maintain social networks, meet cultural or spiritual needs and engage in meaningful activities. If this is not happening, then plans may need review.

Example

Nikola has two children with disabilities and is entitled to a number of support worker hours each week. Nikola found that while her children were on respite she spent all the time cleaning the house and she still was not getting a break. Nikola has negotiated to instead receive home support and less respite. Nikola feels much less stressed now and appreciates the time she can spend with each child.