Different housing types: Which one is right for me?

We’re passionate about supporting people with disability to live as independently as possible, so we’re obsessed with making sure houses suit the people who choose to call them home. In Australia, Special Disability Accommodation (SDA) plays an important role in ensuring that people with disability have access to comfortable and safe housing. If you're new to SDA, don't worry. This blog will explain the different types of homes and help you choose the right one for you.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is housing designed to meet the specific needs of people with disability. It offers features and modifications that make the living environment more accessible and supportive. SDA can include things like ramps for wheelchairs, wide doorways, and technology to assist with daily tasks. The home that is right for you is based on your individual needs. When you choose your house, think about what you need, talk to your support coordinator and healthcare providers, and what you may need later.

There are four SDA design categories: Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust and High Physical Support.

Improved Liveability

All accessible housing is designed to be easier to get around in. Homes with improved liveability include extra features for people who may have trouble with their senses, thinking, or learning. For instance, it may have high contrast walls and floors for easy visibility, rooms where the people supporting you can always keep an eye on you, wide hallways and few stairs.

Examples of homes classed as ‘Improved Liveability’ are our Stanthorpe and Northgate homes. Both homes have wide walking areas and accessibility features such as rails in the bathroom.

Fully Accessible

Fully Accessible homes are designed with a variety of features to make them easier to live in for people who face many physical challenges. If you use a wheelchair at home or can't climb stairs, this type of housing is designed to help you. If you think a fully accessible home is right for you, our Harlaxton and Petrie. These homes include modern safety features, including Tunstall Assistive Technology. They also have wide doorways and hallways plus automatic height adjustable benchtops, making them accessible for wheelchair users.

Robust

Robust homes are strong and durable, reducing the need for repairs and maintenance. Strong and durable housing means it doesn't break easily so they have features such as secure windows and doors, high impact fittings and fixtures and soundproofing. Robust homes are built to keep you and others safe. This kind of housing is good for people who have trouble controlling their actions which may cause injury to themselves or damage the home.

High Physical Support

High Physical Support homes have a lot of physical access support for people who need a lot of help. You may need things like a special lifting device to get in and out of bed, backup power sources or home automation and communication technology.

How do I know which is right for me?

Assess your requirements

Start thinking about what you need in your future home or if you are missing anything in your current home. Do you need wider hallways to move around more easily or do you need support getting in and out of bed?

Talk with your support coordinator

Talking with your support coordinator who can help you find accessible housing that’s available near you and meets your needs. They can also organise a needs assessment to support your application.

Location, location, location!

When choosing an accessible home, consider the location and how close the home is to essential amenities such as public transportation, shops, healthcare, and support services. This will help you live independently and conveniently.

Future proofing your decision

Think about what you may need in the future and consider if the house you choose can change to fit those needs if your situation changes. Your health providers can help you understand what support you may need in the future. It’s always easier to plan ahead than to need to move again later.