6 signs an NDIS participant may need additional support

As an NDIS participant's circumstances change, their support needs may change too. Recognising the early signs that an NDIS participant needs additional support can help maintain independence, improve safety and ensure NDIS funding continues to meet their needs. This guide outlines six common signs that current supports may need reviewing.

1. Changes in daily activities

One of the first signs that a participant may need additional support is difficulty managing tasks they previously completed independently.

This might include:

• Personal care and grooming
• Meal preparation
• Household tasks
• Using public transport
• Managing appointments
• Following daily routines

While occasional challenges are normal, ongoing difficulties may indicate that current supports are no longer meeting the participant's needs. The NDIS identifies everyday activities such as self-care, household tasks and community participation as important areas of functional capacity and independence.
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2. Changes in functional capacity and NDIS support needs

A participant's functional capacity can change over time due to their disability, health condition or life circumstances.

You might notice they tire more easily, take longer to complete tasks or require more assistance than they previously did. They may also become less confident performing activities that were once part of their daily routine.

Changes like these can affect independence, community participation and progress towards NDIS goals.

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3. Increased falls or safety concerns

An increase in falls, trips, stumbles or other safety concerns can be a sign that an NDIS participant's support needs have changed. You may notice reduced balance, difficulty walking longer distances, slower movement or a loss of confidence when completing everyday activities. Some participants may begin avoiding activities they previously enjoyed because they no longer feel safe or steady on their feet.

Supports such as allied health services, mobility aids, assistive technology or falls prevention strategies can help participants stay safe and continue doing the things that are important to them.

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4. Changes in memory, communication or decision-making

Changes in memory, communication or decision-making can affect a participant's ability to manage daily activities and tasks. You may notice missed appointments, difficulty following routines, repeating questions, struggling to communicate needs or becoming confused in situations they would normally manage independently.

Support workers, carers and family members are often the first to notice these changes because they see the participant regularly.

If these challenges are becoming more frequent or affecting safety, independence or participation, it may be a sign that the participant's current supports need reviewing.
For free information and support on cognitive changes visit Healthdirect.

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5. Reduced participation in community activities

Participation is a key part of many NDIS goals. when participants start declining social outings, community programs, appointments or activities they previously enjoyed, it may signal a change in support needs.

In some cases, reduced participation may be linked to mobility challenges, communication difficulties, declining confidence or concerns about safety, so understanding the reason behind the change can help identify a suitable solution.

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6. Increased reliance on informal supports

Another common indicator is increased reliance on family members, carers or support workers. A participant may begin asking for more assistance, require regular prompting or need support with tasks they previously managed on their own.

While support needs naturally change over time, a noticeable increase in reliance on others may indicate that a participant would benefit from a review of their current supports.

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Why early identification of changing NDIS Support needs matters

Recognising changes early gives participants the best opportunity to access supports that match their current needs.

A review may identify opportunities for:

• Additional therapies
• Assistive technology
• Home modifications
• Increased support hours
• Capacity-building supports
• Improved safety measures

Early intervention can help prevent small challenges from becoming larger barriers to independence and participation.

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When is an NDIS plan reassessment needed?

If a participant's disability-related needs have changed significantly, they may benefit from discussing their circumstances with their support coordinator, local area coordinator or NDIS contact. Changes in mobility, safety, daily living skills or participation may indicate that that a reassessment would be beneficial.

Guide to changing NDIS plan →

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What should support workers do if they notice changes?

Support workers are often well placed to identify early changes in participants' needs. If concerns arise, document observations, discuss changes with your supervisor where appropriate, and encourage participants and families to consider a review of supports. Early communication can help ensure supports continue to align with the participant's goals and meet their needs.

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Simone's story Simone stays independent with help from the MePACS, who she lovingly calls "Sim's Angels". Read more

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How personal alarms can support independence for NDIS participants

For participants with mobility challenges, health conditions or safety concerns, access to help can provide added confidence and reassurance.

Personal alarms can support independent living by helping participants quickly access assistance if they experience a fall, medical event or emergency.

For participants, this can mean greater confidence participating in daily activities and remaining connected to their community. For families, carers and support workers, it can provide peace of mind that help is available when needed.

MePACS offers a range of personal alarm options designed to support different lifestyles and levels of independence. Participants who regularly leave home may benefit from a community alarm, which can provide access to assistance both at home and while out and about. Those looking to learn more about the available options can explore our community alarms such as our Solo Watch and our Mobile Alarm.

In some circumstances, personal alarms may be funded through the NDIS where they are considered reasonable and necessary and relate to a participant's disability, goals and support needs. Participants should speak with their support coordinator, plan manager or NDIS representative to determine whether funding may be available.

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Supporting NDIS participants through changing support needs

A participant's needs are not static, and changes can happen gradually over time.

Whether it's difficulty managing daily activities, increased safety concerns, changes in communication or reduced participation in the community, recognising the signs early can help ensure supports continue to meet the participant's needs and goals.

The right support at the right time can help participants maintain their independence, build confidence and continue engaging in the activities that matter most.
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Helping participants stay independent for longer Our team can help you choose the best option for their needs. Contact Us