Written by: Dr Tom Eaton (Accredited Exercise Physiologists)
The NDIS provides funding for more than 500,000 individuals who are living with a disability. This funding allows participants to access services and supports such as Exercise Physiology to improve their health, enhance their capacity to engage in the community and enjoy their life. NDIS funding falls under two categories: Improving Health & Wellbeing, and Improved Daily Living Skills. Our team of Exercise Physiologists help to improve health & wellbeing and daily living skills for people living with a disability.
No matter your goals, an Exercise Physiologist can help you to improve the following: physical function and fitness, independent living skills, ability to engage in community activities, physical health and reduce the risk of developing chronic disease, coordination, balance and mobility and help develop your sporting skills. Our teamwork with a range of conditions that fall under the NDIS including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, Down Syndrome, Neurological Conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis & Parkinson’s Disease, Mental Health Conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Pain and Stroke.
Exercise Physiologists are university trained health professionals who specialize in using exercise as medicine. This means we design and tailor exercise therapy programs specific to you and your needs. Here at Inspire Fitness and Exercise Physiology, we can support participants who are self-managed or plan managed. Exercise Physiology services comes under Capacity Building.
Exercise physiology plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities. It focuses on the use of exercise and physical activity as a therapeutic intervention to improve overall fitness, functional capacity, and quality of life. In Australia, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has been instrumental in providing support and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including access to exercise physiology services. In this blog article, we will explore the relationship between exercise physiology and the NDIS and discuss the benefits it brings to people with disabilities.
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise physiology is a branch of healthcare that involves the study of how the body responds, adapts, and benefits from exercise and physical activity. Exercise physiologists are qualified professionals who design and deliver exercise programs tailored to individuals’ specific needs and health conditions, including disabilities. They work with people of all ages and abilities to maximize their physical function, manage chronic conditions, and improve overall well-being.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
The NDIS is an Australian government initiative that aims to provide support and services to individuals with permanent and significant disabilities. It ensures that people with disabilities have access to the necessary support they require to live fulfilling lives and participate in their communities. The NDIS provides funding for a range of support services, including exercise physiology, to help individuals achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
Benefits of Exercise Physiology for Individuals with Disabilities
Exercise physiology can have a profound impact on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals with disabilities. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Improved Physical Function
Exercise physiology helps individuals with disabilities improve their physical function and performance. Through targeted exercise programs, exercise physiologists can help individuals enhance their strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. This can lead to improved mobility, independence, and overall functional capacity.
2. Management of Chronic Conditions
Many individuals with disabilities also have other chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. Exercise physiology can help manage these conditions by reducing the risks associated with physical inactivity, such as heart disease and weight gain. Exercise programs can be tailored to address specific condition-related needs and provide individuals with the tools to manage their health effectively.
3. Enhanced Mental Well-being
Regular exercise has been shown to have significant mental health benefits, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving mood, and enhancing overall well-being. Exercise physiologists work with individuals with disabilities to develop exercise programs that not only benefit their physical health but also boost their mental well-being, providing a holistic approach to their care.
4. Increased Social Participation
Physical activity and exercise can also provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in social interactions, participate in community activities, and build supportive networks. Exercise physiology programs can be designed to include group sessions or community-based activities, enabling individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences and interests.
Accessing Exercise Physiology Services through the NDIS
Under the NDIS, eligible individuals with disabilities can access funding for exercise physiology services. The funding can cover assessments, consultations, and the development of tailored exercise programs by qualified exercise physiologists. The NDIS aims to empower individuals to exercise choice and control over their own health and well-being, including decisions related to their exercise physiology support.
To access exercise physiology services through the NDIS, individuals need to have an approved NDIS plan and allocate appropriate funding towards exercise physiology as part of their support services. They can then connect with registered exercise physiologists who are approved providers under the NDIS and have the necessary qualifications and experience.
Conclusion
Exercise physiology plays a significant role in promoting health, function, and well-being for individuals with disabilities. The NDIS has recognized the importance of exercise physiology as a valuable support service and provides funding to eligible individuals to access exercise physiology programs. By leveraging the expertise of exercise physiologists, individuals with disabilities can enjoy the numerous benefits of exercise, leading to improved physical function, management of chronic conditions, enhanced mental well-being, and increased social participation. The combination of exercise physiology and the NDIS creates an empowering framework that aims to enable individuals with disabilities to live their lives to the fullest.