Comparing Disability vs. Aged Care Support Options
Choosing the right kind of support can be confusing — especially if you or your loved one has complex needs that could qualify for both disability and aged care support. At EnableU, we work with clients of all ages to help determine whether the NDIS or Home Care Packages are most suitable, or if a combination of both is possible.
What’s the Difference Between NDIS and Aged Care?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Australian Aged Care system are both government-funded programs. However, they differ in eligibility, services, and funding structure.
NDIS | Home Care Packages (Aged Care) |
---|---|
For people under 65 with permanent disability | For people aged 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians) |
Goal-based support plans | Needs-based support plans |
Funded therapies, support coordination, transport | Domestic help, clinical nursing, allied health, social support |
More flexible use of funding | Strict guidelines on use of package funding |
Can You Access Both?
In some cases — such as people with early onset conditions or those who acquire a disability after turning 65 — there may be overlap. Our care coordinators can help determine whether you qualify for either scheme, and guide you through applications or reviews.
Services Commonly Funded by Both Systems
- Personal care
- Meal preparation
- Transport and community access
- Mobility aids and home modifications
- Physiotherapy and OT
EnableU Can Help You Decide
If you’re not sure which system suits your needs, we can help by:
- Assessing your eligibility and goals
- Connecting you with the right referrals (My Aged Care or NDIS access requests)
- Explaining funding differences and options
- Helping prepare documentation and evidence
Family Considerations
We understand families may have existing informal support arrangements. EnableU can advise on when to shift to formal supports and how to ease that transition — making it less overwhelming for both the client and their loved ones.
Serving Inner Northern Sydney
We work across:
- Ryde
- Canada Bay
- Hunter’s Hill
Contact your local EnableU team today to get honest, expert guidance about aged care and disability support pathways.