What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Who Is It For?
Supported Independent Living (SIL) offers a practical solution for people living with disabilities who want to maintain their independence while receiving necessary support. It’s a service that enables individuals to live in their own homes or shared accommodation, with personalised assistance tailored to meet their unique needs. Whether you require help with daily tasks or want the peace of mind knowing support is available at any time, SIL provides the flexibility to live life on your own terms.
But what exactly is SIL, and who can benefit from it? Let’s explore.
What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
SIL is a 24/7 support service that assists people with disabilities in their day-to-day lives. It’s different from in-home support services, which are provided at specific times of the day. With SIL, support is available around the clock—any time you need it, day or night.
SIL services can be provided in shared accommodation or in your own home, allowing you the flexibility to choose the living arrangement that suits you best. Whether you need help with personal care, attending medical appointments, managing household chores, or participating in social activities, SIL can provide the support you need to remain independent and connected to your community.
Who Can Benefit from SIL?
SIL is ideal for individuals who need consistent, reliable support in their daily lives but still want to live independently. This service is suitable for people with various disabilities, including:
Young adults who are transitioning out of their family home and into independent living.
People with complex health needs who require ongoing medical care and support, such as those living with spinal cord injuries, acquired brain injuries, or intellectual disabilities.
Individuals who prefer to live independently but need assistance with daily tasks such as personal care, cooking, and medication management.
SIL provides a solution for people who might need extra help in some areas of their life but still want to maintain as much autonomy as possible. The level of support provided is flexible and can be tailored to each person’s specific needs.
How SIL Supports Independence
One of the key benefits of SIL is that it helps individuals live independently while still having the support they need. This could mean:
Personal Care: Assistance with daily personal tasks such as showering, grooming, and dressing.
Household Tasks: Help with meal preparation, cleaning, and managing daily routines.
Community Engagement: Support with attending social or recreational activities, keeping you connected to your community.
Health Management: Access to medical support when needed, including coordination with healthcare providers and medication management.
SIL is not just about providing help—it’s about empowering individuals to take control of their lives, make decisions about their daily routines, and pursue their goals with the knowledge that support is there whenever it’s needed.
Real-Life Examples of SIL in Action
To truly understand how SIL benefits individuals, let’s consider a couple of real-life examples:
Emma, a young woman living with a spinal cord injury, was able to move into her own home with the support of a SIL team. She receives assistance with personal care, meal preparation, and attending physiotherapy appointments. The SIL support workers also help her get to social events, where she can meet friends and engage with the community. With 24/7 care available, Emma enjoys the freedom of living independently while knowing help is just a call away if needed.
John, a man with an acquired brain injury, chose to live in shared accommodation with SIL support. He receives daily assistance with household chores and community outings, and the SIL team also coordinates his medical appointments. This support helps John manage his day-to-day life with confidence, knowing he has the help he needs whenever necessary.
Why Choose estara for SIL Support?
estara offers high-quality Supported Independent Living services across South Australia. With over 60 years of experience in disability support, estara is committed to providing flexible, personalised care that helps individuals live independently. Our SIL services include:
24/7 support from skilled and compassionate staff.
Assistance with personal care, household tasks, and community participation.
Access to specialised support for people with spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and other disabilities.
Flexible living options, including shared accommodation and private homes.
As a registered NDIS provider, estara can help you use your NDIS plan to access SIL funding and make the transition to independent living as smooth as possible.
Ready to Explore Your SIL Options?
If you or a loved one are considering Supported Independent Living, estara is here to help. With a range of SIL vacancies across Adelaide and regional South Australia, we can support you in finding the right accommodation and care plan to suit your needs.
Contact estara today to learn more about available SIL properties or book a consultation to discuss your needs with our team.