It’s the question so many parents carry quietly for years. You’ve cared for your son or daughter their whole life. You know their routines, their favourite foods, what calms them and what makes them laugh. And somewhere in the back of your mind is the worry: what happens when I can’t do this any more?
If that sounds familiar, please know you’re not alone, and it’s never too early (or too late) to start planning.
Why planning early helps
When a move happens in a crisis, after an illness or a hospital stay, there’s little time to choose. Planning ahead means your loved one can move at their own pace, try things out, and have a real say in where and how they live. It also gives you peace of mind, knowing their future is in good hands while you’re still here to help shape it.
Decisions that impact the future of loved ones can be hard. We’re always here to listen and help if and where we can.
Start with small steps
Planning doesn’t mean making every decision at once. Some families begin with:
- A conversation with your loved one about what they’d like their life to look like
- A short respite stay, so they can get used to time away from home in a safe, familiar setting
- Writing down the things only you know: routines, health needs, likes and dislikes
- Talking with your support coordinator about Supported Independent Living (SIL) in their NDIS plan
What Supported Independent Living looks like at EllieB’s
Our SIL homes are shared homes in South Australia where residents get the support they need, every day, while living as independently as possible. We offer women’s homes run by women, men’s homes run by men, and mixed homes. Residents help run the household, enjoy their local community, and build friendships with the people they live with.
Many of our residents first came to us for respite. Over time, a familiar house and familiar faces made the next step feel natural, for both them and for their families.
Importantly, you don’t have to have all the answers
We’ve been supporting South Australian families since 1981, and we know this is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make.
We’ll walk alongside you, answer your questions honestly, and let you take it one step at a time.
If you’d like to, you can check out our current Supported Independent Living (SIL) vacancies, or call us on (08) 8252 1000 for a discussion about what the future could look like.
And remember: with EllieB’s by your side all that’s left to do is smile.
