Having a disability can sometimes make it hard to connect with others. You may need to overcome certain barriers to get out and about, or you might find some social situations challenging. This can make it hard to maintain relationships, or do the things you enjoy.
But this doesn’t have to be the end of the story. As an NDIS provider, Home Caring is here to help you stay connected to others, and live life to the full. Here are eight ideas to help you stay socially active and engaged in your local community. If you need help, please get in touch with our team.
- Enjoy your favourite hobby with others
Whether you love sport, art classes, hip hop dancing or going to the beach, there’s something for everyone! Search for clubs that welcome people of all abilities, or look for programs that run activities that cater for people with disability, such as adaptive sports. If you need help getting started, chat to your support coordinator. They may be able to help you come up with ideas, and access activities that you’re interested in.
- Look for a disability-friendly community
In Australia, there are many NDIS providers that offer fun programs specifically designed for people with disability. It’s a great way to meet people who face the same challenges as you, try new things (e.g. cooking new meals, going on day trips, learning a new sport), have fun in a group environment, and get out in the community. To find options in your local area, please get in touch with our team.
- Learn skills that boost your independence
Living with a disability shouldn’t stop you from having a rich and fulfilling social life. By learning life skills such as catching public transport, doing the grocery shopping or planning for a holiday, you can gain the confidence and skills you need to get out in the community, and enjoy life. Chat to your NDIS service provider about how they can help you learn valuable skills that increase your independence.
- Crack out the boardgames!
Board games are a simple, fun and creative way to enjoy time with loved ones. Best of all, they’re great for all ages and abilities. Do you love drawing? Try a game of Pictionary. Enjoy strategic game play? Try cards, an empire-building game like Risk, or Monopoly. If learning facts are your thing, enjoy a game of Trivial Pursuit, with many versions now available, based on your favourite topics.
- Use technology to stay connected
One of the great things about digital technology is how it helps us stay connected, even if we face barriers that make it difficult to regularly meet up in person. Set up a regular video chat with friends and family members who you don’t get to see as often. Aside from catching up, you can do a fun activity together online, show your pets or latest achievements, or watch your favourite TV show together.
- Learn a new skill
Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn, or an activity you’d like to take part in? Try taking a class! Learning something new has been proven to increase confidence, improves overall wellbeing, create a sense of accomplishment, and be a great way to meet new people with similar interests to you. Chat to you support coordinator about how you can learn something new and challenge yourself in different ways.
- Volunteer and give back to your community
Offering your time and skills to help others not only feels good, but also gives you a chance to be part of a friendly team. Today, there are so many opportunities for people to make a contribution, no matter their ability. Whether you cook meals for others, serve customers at an op shop, or help take care of a community garden, volunteering can be a great addition to your life – plus a great way to meet people.
- Get the support you need
Spend some time considering what it is that stops you from being as socially active as you’d like to be. Is it mobility challenges? A need for accessible programs or special equipment? A lack of support? Whatever you need, NDIS providers can help you access the support you need with a tailored plan, so you can stay connected in your community. If you haven’t yet applied for an NDIS plan, you can do so by calling 1800 800 110 to find out what steps you need to take.
Home Caring provides personalised support that helps people with disability stay connected with others. As an NDIS registered provider, we’ll help you use your funding to get the most out of life, no matter your ability. To find out more, please get in touch with our customer service team.
