Adaptive clothing gives people with disability an opportunity to express themselves while addressing their unique needs through fashion and clothes. It also empowers them to wear functional, practical and easy-to-fit items.
These items can potentially be funded within a participant’s NDIS plan under Consumables (Low Cost AT – Personal Care and Safety).
Here are some examples of adaptive clothing that the NDIS can consider funding:
Shoes that you no longer have to tie
Adaptive shoes can help you step into them with minimal effort. They can be laceless, lightweight and are quick-and-easy fit. They can also sometimes feature supportive cushioning that makes it feel plush and responsive. These shoes are ideal for those with limited mobility and those who wish to be hands-free. Image source: nike.com/au.
Hassle-free dressing
Adaptive clothing makes dressing easier without sacrificing style, quality or comfort. They can appear with Velcro closures, cord-lock fasteners, or magnets to zip up. They are especially made with adaptations to suit a person’s need and for easier usage. Image source: tommy.com/tommy-adaptive.
Hidden side openings for abdominal access
Adaptive boysuits for kids feature hidden side openings for easier tube feeding. These can also have crotch snaps for quick changing. Image source: target.com.
Ideal for people in wheelchairs
Clothes that are easy to get on and off are essential for people in wheelchairs. With features such as buttonless, zipless, or no hard trims, these accessible clothes make it more comfortable for participants to wear them even on a daily basis. Image source: christinastephens.com.au.
Continence aids that are practical to wear
Meant to be discreet, convenient and practical, continence products can now be in the form of shorts too. With breathable materials and functionality that inhibit penetration of liquid, pyjama shorts help avoid instances of bedwetting. Image source: everyhuman.com.au.
Calming sensory undergarments
Compression tops, such as the image pictured above, help in regulating a child’s body temperature. They are made to be comfortable and can be worn all day, all year round. Image source: caringclothing.com.au.
As a general rule, the requested support will be funded by the NDIS if:
- it is related to your disability needs
- it will help with your individual goals and aspirations
- it will help your social and/or economic participation
- it will provide value for money
- it is effective and beneficial for you
- it helps maintain your informal support
- it is a responsibility of the NDIS to fund
If you have any questions about NDIS plan management, please call us at 1800 63 63 77 or email us at info@ndsp.com.au. Register for Plan Management Sign Uptoday!
