Carla Minnican, Occupational Therapist
What is a Supported Independent Living Assessment?
Support Independent Living (or ‘SIL’) refers to the supports a person requires to live independently within their home. The aim of a SIL assessment is to determine your eligibility and document the level of assisted living you may require. These assessments may be completed alongside a functional capacity assessment or be developed as a stand-alone report. You may be eligible for SIL if you require significant amounts of supervision or assistance every day or overnight.
You can find further information regarding housing and living supports here
Can a Supported Independent Living Assessment be completed via telehealth?
Yes! A growing body of evidence shows that online delivery of therapy can be as effective as face to face. Online therapy has many other benefits too, including being convenient and accessible for people in regional and rural areas.
At Umbo, we listen to your story and lived experience in your own words. We wholeheartedly agree that you are the expert in your own life and that you understand your disability better than anyone.
How long will it take?
A typical supported independent living assessment lasts between 1-2.5 hours, depending on the complexity of the participant’s situation and the capacity of the client. Multiple sessions may be required to help your therapist gain a greater understanding of your routines and requirements. Further time is then required for report writing and follow-up as needed.
What does it involve?
Many of the questions asked will be like those discussed during a functional capacity assessment. However, unlike FCA’s, SIL assessments contain detailed information and exploration of the following:
- Level of supervision or direct support required for daily living
- The recommended schedule of support based on your current weekly routine and goals
- Suggestions for support staff-to-client ratios
- Exploration of alternative housing options (i.e., shared living arrangements)
- Co-resident recommendation for shared living arrangements
- Required support worker competencies
- Summary of accommodation and support risks
You will not be required to answer any questions and provide any information that you do not feel comfortable sharing.
Do I need to bring anything/have anything ready?
Providing your therapist with relevant information/documents will help them get a good understanding of your situation and write the best report they can! This might include your current NDIS plan, and any reports/letters from other health professionals including allied health, general practitioners, or specialists. As we are an online service only, you can upload these in our secure client information form. Please know, that providing this additional information is completely voluntary and we ask that you only share documents that you feel comfortable sharing.