The four SDA categories: Fully Accessible

If you’ve been approved for Specialist Disability Accommodation as part of your NDIS funding and live with physical impairments now is the time to familiarise yourself with the four SDA categories. Each category offers unique features tailored to the different needs of the resident.

“Fully Accessible SDA” is one of the four categories of the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) design models. Fully Accessible SDA caters to people living with significant physical disabilities. These residences feature barrier-free access, wide doorways, spacious interiors, and adaptive amenities and are designed for ease of movement and independence.

Understanding which SDA category best fits your needs ensures that your home aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle and requirements. At Maple, we’re dedicated to providing you with a space that enhances your daily functionality and comfort. We aim to create homes designed to support and enrich your everyday life.

What is Fully Accessible SDA?

Imagine a world where every room, every feature, and every inch of your home is designed with your mobility and accessibility in mind. This is the essence of Fully Accessible Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). 

Fully Accessible in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is all about breaking down barriers and creating homes where physical disabilities don’t limit a person’s ability to live independently and comfortably. 

Fully Accessible SDA design transforms the concept of home into a space where ease of movement and independence are at the forefront. Whether you use a wheelchair, have limited mobility, or rely on assisted devices, these homes are crafted to ensure that every part of your living space is within reach and easy to use.

What is included in SDA Fully Accessible?

Fully accessible SDA goes above and beyond removing barriers; it’s about creating an empowering living environment where you can perform daily tasks independently and comfortably. Of course, this makes them functional but they are also designed to be safe and welcoming, providing a nurturing environment that supports your lifestyle and well-being. 

Here’s how these homes enhance your day-to-day life:

Step-free access and spacious interiors

Imagine arriving at your home and rolling right in without encountering a single step or barrier and once inside you find yourself in an environment designed with ample space to manoeuvre, even with a wheelchair. A Fully Accessible home features:

• No-step entrances, smooth or ramped that allow you to move seamlessly from outside, without the need to navigate stairs.
• Flat, continuous flooring that is level and uninterrupted, making it easy to move around without obstacles.
• Wide doorways and hallways are generously sized to provide plenty of room for easy movement.
• Open-plan layouts that are spacious and uncluttered, allow for effortless navigation and reduce the risk of accidents.

Adaptive kitchens and bathrooms

Imagine a kitchen where you can cook, clean, and enjoy meals with ease, or a bathroom where safety and convenience are built into every feature. In a fully accessible home you can have:

• Adjustable counters and cabinets, work surfaces and storage that you can adjust to your preferred height, making cooking and food preparation accessible.
• Roll-in showers and accessible baths are designed with ease of access in mind, featuring fixtures that accommodate mobility devices.
• Grab bars and support rails are strategically placed to assist with balance and movement in the bathroom and throughout the home.

Automated and user-friendly features

Think of a home where advanced technology makes everything simpler and more convenient. These homes often come equipped with:

• Smart home systems can include automation for lights, temperature control, and security, all controllable from a single device or even through voice commands.
• Easy-to-use controls such as light switches, outlets, and appliance controls are positioned for easy access, reducing the need for stretching or bending.

Enhanced safety features

Imagine a home that anticipates your needs and minimises the risks. These homes prioritise safety with:

• Non-slip flooring is designed to prevent slips and falls, providing secure footing throughout the home. 
• Emergency systems such as alarms and alerts that are easy to reach and activate, ensure you can quickly get help if needed.

What disabilities is Fully Accessible SDA for?

Fully Accessible Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is specifically designed to support residents with significant physical disabilities. These accommodations are tailored to ensure that people with limited mobility can live independently and safely, with every aspect of the home being easily navigable and usable. If you or a loved one is living with any of the following, they may be eligible for Fully Accessible SDA.

Mobility impairments

People with mobility impairments often use wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices to move around. Fully Accessible homes are ideal for:

• Wheelchair users because the wide doorways, spacious rooms, and step-free access, make it easy for them to navigate and use all parts of the home. 
• For people with severe arthritis, limited joint movement or chronic pain the accessible designs such as low counters and easy-to-reach switches help reduce strain and facilitate daily tasks.
• For people with muscular dystrophy. As this condition progresses, residents may require homes that accommodate mobility aids and provide space for caregivers to assist with daily activities.

Neurological conditions

Neurological conditions can affect muscle control, balance, and coordination. Fully Accessible SDA is suitable for people with:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) which can cause varying degrees of mobility impairment and fatigue. Accessible features such as smooth flooring and adaptive bathrooms can help manage these symptoms.
• Cerebral Palsy as people living with this condition may have difficulty with balance and motor functions. Homes designed with wide, open spaces and supportive features can greatly enhance their mobility and safety.
• Parkinson’s Disease, which when progressing can lead to tremors and reduced mobility. Fully Accessible homes provide the necessary space and stability to support movement and daily living.

Fully Accessible SDA might also be beneficial for people living with the following:

• Spinal cord injuries such as Paraplegia and Quadriplegia or people with limited arm and hand function.
• Chronic health conditions such as severe respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. 
• Amputation and limb differences who may use prosthetics or wheelchairs.

These conditions are not limited and will require in-depth assessments by the NDIA and your healthcare team to determine what category of SDA will best suit you or your loved one.

Why choose Fully Accessible SDA with Maple?

Choosing Fully Accessible SDA with Maple means embracing a lifestyle of independence, comfort and empowerment. At Maple, we stand out because we blend innovative design with personalised care, ensuring every home is perfectly tailored to your needs. 

Our spacious, step-free layouts, smart home technology, and user-friendly features make daily living effortless and enjoyable. With Maple, you’re not just getting a house; you’re gaining a supportive community and a partner dedicated to enhancing your quality of life. Experience the freedom and confidence of living in a home designed with you at its heart.

Reach out today to find out more about our Fully Accessible housing.