Understanding SIL, SDA, and ILO
When navigating the world of NDIS housing supports, finding the right living arrangement can be daunting. Whether you’re seeking independence, accessibility, or a tailored support system, understanding options like Supported Independent Living (SIL), Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), and Individualised Living Options (ILO) can make all the difference.
SIL (Supported Independent Living) provides daily support to help individuals live independently. SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) offers purpose-built, accessible housing for those with high-support needs. ILO (Individualised Living Options) empowers participants to design personalised living arrangements, tailoring supports to the unique preferences for independence and community living.
Each of these supports is designed to empower people with disabilities to live safely, comfortably, and on their own terms. Let’s break each one down, discuss how they work and how they can help you achieve your ideal living situation.
What does SIL stand for in disability?
SIL or Supported Independent Living is a pathway to independence and empowerment for people living with disabilities. SIL provides tailored support to help you live as independently as possible in your own home or a shared living arrangement.
This support can include help with daily tasks, personal care, and building life skills, all while promoting dignity and choice. SIL is about creating a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment where participants can thrive, connect with others and achieve their personal goals. It’s a step towards living on your own terms, with the right support by your side.
What are the levels of support in SIL?
SIL can offer a variety of levels of support tailored to meet the unique needs of each of our clients. These levels range between the following:
- Lower Support needs – For those who require minimal assistance with daily tasks. If you fall into this stage we will likely focus your support on independence-building and any other occasional support needs.
- Standard support needs – This is for those needing moderate help with activities such as personal care, meal preparation, and household tasks while simultaneously encouraging skill development and independence.
- Higher support needs – This stage is designed for participants who require 24/7 support or assistance with complex needs. Typically we would focus on ensuring safety, comfort and specialised care.
Each level involves some flexibility and is designed to adapt to your evolving needs. We work closely with you to create a personalised plan that aligns with your aspirations so we can provide the right support to help you live as comfortably and independently as possible.
What does SDA stand for in NDIS?
SDA, or Specialist Disability Accommodation, is a vital park of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) designed to provide accessible and purpose-built housing for people with high-support needs. Our SDA homes are meticulously and thoughtfully designed with features such as wide doorways, assistive technology, and space for carers. This helps us to ensure the safety, comfort and independence of our clients.
SDA is about empowering people to thrive in an environment that meets their unique needs while supporting their goals for independence and community involvement. It’s a compassionate approach to housing that puts dignity and choice at the forefront.
What are the 4 types of SDA?
Specialised Disability Accommodation is categorised into four distinct types, each designed to meet different levels of support and accessibility needs:
- Improved Liveability – This category is designed to enhance the accessibility and comfort of people living with sensory, cognitive, or intellectual impairments. It can offer features such as luminance contract, improved wayfinding, and assistive technology.
- Fully accessible – This category is tailored for participants who live with significant physical disabilities. These homes can include wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and assistive technology to ensure ease of mobility for our clients.
- Robust – Designed to support people who may experience behaviours of concern, these properties will feature reinforced materials, soundproofing, and additional safety measures to provide a secure and calming environment where they can thrive.
- High physical support – Built for our participants who require complex physical support needs. This category of properties can include ceiling hoists, adjustable fixtures, and 24/7 care provision options.
What does ILO mean in disability?
ILO, or Individualised Living Options, is a flexible NDIS support that empowers people living with disabilities to choose how and where they live. Unlike traditional housing models, ILO focuses on creating a living arrangement tailored specifically to your unique needs, preferences and goals.
It’s about giving you the freedom to design your ideal living situation, whether that’s living with friends, family, a housemate, or on your own, with the right support in place. ILO prioritises your independence and personal choice, ensuring you feel safe, supported and connected in your home and community. It’s a closer step towards truly personalised living.
How does ILO work?
ILO puts you at the centre of the decision making process, empowering you to live the way you choose. It is a two-stage process. Here’s how it works:
1. Exploration and design
- Work with your NDIS provider to explore your goals, preferences and support needs.
- Identify the type of living arrangement you’d like—living alone, with friends, family or a chosen housemate.
- Create a personalised plan that includes your ideal environment, supports and community connections.
2. Implementing and monitoring
- Set up your chosen living arrangement with necessary supports, such as daily living assistance or capacity building services.
- Flexibility allows adjustments as your needs or circumstances change.
- Regular monitoring ensures the arrangement continues to meet your goals and provide the right level of support.
What is the difference between a SIL and a SDA?
When it comes to the NDIS, both SIL (Supported Independent Living) and SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) are designed to support our participants in their housing needs, but they serve different purposes.
Supported Independent Living
SIL focuses on the support you receive in your home. It’s about helping you with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, or personal care, so you can live as independently as possible. SIL can be provided in any home—whether you’re in a shared living arrangement, with family, or living alone.
Specialised Disability Accommodation
SDA, on the other hand, is all about the home itself. These are purpose-built or modified homes designed for our participants that live with high physical or functional needs. The accessibility features like wide doorways, reinforced structures, and assistive technology are there to provide safety and comfort.
Think of it this way: SIL is the people who help you live independently, while SDA is the space that supports your independence. Some participants use both, depending on their unique needs.
Reach out to our dedicated and compassionate team today to find out how we can help you with your support and housing needs.
